Delta State University announces IHL approval of new degree programs
Cleveland, MS (11/21/2024) — CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University is excited to announce that the Board of Trustees of Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) has approved the launch of two new degree programs: the Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media and the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences. These programs, which are set to begin in January, align with Delta State's mission to enhance academic opportunities, foster innovation, and meet workforce needs.
The BA in Digital Media and BA in Humanities and Social Sciences were approved at IHL's November meeting. Together, these programs reflect Delta State's commitment to preparing students for impactful careers in fields critical to the state and nation.
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media
The BA in Digital Media is a forward-thinking program that equips students with the skills needed for careers in the rapidly growing digital media and marketing industries. Students will gain expertise in video production, social media content creation, web development, podcasting, and short-form digital storytelling.
"The growing popularity of digital marketing and media suggests that there will be a significant demand for digital marketing expertise in the foreseeable future," said Dr. April Mondy, Interim Chair of the School of Management, Marketing, and Business Administration (MMBA). "DSU's BA in Digital Media will focus on the interconnected elements of visual, audio, and written media in digital forms. Students will learn in-depth skillsets that will be beneficial for any organization."
Christie Sledge, Marketing Instructor and Internship Coordinator for the School of MMBA said, "Most internships prefer applicants with digital marketing skills. Since Fall 2022, 70% of internship employers have requested that students have digital and social media marketing skills."
Program Highlights:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Students will complete foundational courses in digital media, electives in areas such as animation and web design, and a capstone project with real-world applications.
Industry Relevance: Graduates will be equipped with skills in media production, communication strategies, and digital marketing to excel in an industry projected for significant growth.
Interdisciplinary Opportunities: A Digital Media minor will also be available to enhance degrees in Marketing, Art, General Business, and other related fields.
Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences
The BA in Humanities and Social Sciences offers a customizable, interdisciplinary education, allowing students to combine two concentrations from English, History, Sociology, and African American Studies. This program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in critical thinking, research, and communication, preparing them for a range of career paths.
Dr. Chuck Westmoreland, Interim Chair of the School of Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences and Chair of the Curriculum Committee said, "Our new BA in Humanities and Social Sciences allows students to choose two concentrations in the areas of African-American Studies, English, History, and Sociology. At the end of their program, students will take a capstone course where they develop a research project based on their concentrations and main interests. We look forward to welcoming our first group of Humanities and Social Sciences majors starting this spring!"
Program Features:
Customizable Pathways: Students can design their education to match their interests and career goals by choosing two concentrations.
Capstone Experience: A culminating course includes service-learning or internship components to provide real-world experience.
Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates will be prepared for roles in education, cultural organizations, government, and community development, as well as for graduate studies in areas such as law and public policy.
This program also ensures the continuation of robust education in English and History following the closure of standalone degrees in these disciplines.
"These programs reflect Delta State's commitment to meeting the needs of our students and our state," said Delta State President Dr. Daniel J. Ennis. "By offering these degrees, we are preparing our graduates for meaningful careers and ensuring a brighter future for Mississippi."
Applications for both programs will open in Fall 2024, with classes beginning in January 2025. For more information about the BA in Digital Media, contact Dr. April Mondy at 662-846-4190 or by email at amondy@deltastate.edu. For more information about the BA in Humanities and Social Sciences, contact Dr. Chuck Westmoreland at 662-846-4065 or by email at cwestmoreland@deltastate.edu.
About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.