Subscribe to Clarion Ledger: Local journalists covering local stories
Clarion Ledger journalists cover the important moments in Mississippi. Support local journalism by subscribing.
Staff
Mississippi State University is getting several new bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning approved the programs during a regular Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday morning, May 15.
During the board’s monthly meetings, the trustees often hear about proposed degree programs that have already received approval from board committees.
A timeline for implementing the new programs has not been announced.
Thursday morning, the board also welcomed Jackson State University Interim President Denise Jones Gregory, who was present at the meeting.
Gregory stepped in as interim president last week following the sudden resignation of Marcus Thompson. A specific reason was not given, but Thompson’s path to presidency was the subject of public scrutiny after he was promoted from within the IHL in late 2023.
New bachelor’s degree programs
Here are the new bachelor’s degree programs approved by the IHL Thursday morning:
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Technology is a 120-hour program that builds on the existing Associate of Applied Science degrees. Students in this program will learn markable skills including managing a construction project’s function, schedule, scope, cost, safety and quality. No other Mississippi institution offers a similar program.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Weather and Environmental Science is a 120-hour program that also builds on the Associate of Applied Science. The program promises a comprehensive education in weather forecasting, climate analysis and human environmental interactions. Graduates will have the skills for careers in military weather operations, climate change policy analysis, geoscience and natural science. No other Mississippi institution offers a similar program.
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship is a 120-hour program that prepares students for success in launching business ventures and existing practices. Entrepreneurship is a vital component to the U.S. economy, and the rise of E-Commerce allows graduates of this program to pursue careers without geographic constraints. Jackson State University, the University of Mississippi and the University of Southern Mississippi offer similar degree programs.
New master’s degree programs
Here are the new master’s degree programs approved by the IHL Thursday morning:
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is a 31-hour program designed for students seeking careers in artificial intelligence innovation and machine learning-based solutions. Courses in this program include computer science theory and artificial intelligence machine learning. Students can choose between a thesis and non-thesis route. No other Mississippi institutions offer a similar master’s program.
- Master of Science in Construction Management is a 30-hour program focusing on the managerial aspects of construction, which are currently in high demand. This program combines mastery of construction management concepts with hands-on experience. No other Mississippi institutions offer a similar master’s program.
Got a news tip? Contact Mary Boyte at mboyte@jackson.gannett.com