Belmont University adds two new offerings to its Adult Degree Program

Belmont University is expanding the number of available majors offered by its Adult Degree Program. Chemical and biological health studies and education policy will both be available beginning in June 2025 for students who are taking courses through the university’s Adult Degree Program, which is focused on providing career-focused education for adult students who are first-time students, transfer students, or are pursuing a second bachelor’s degree.

According to an article on Belmont University’s website, Kim Powell, who serves as the assistant director of Interdisciplinary Studies and Global Education, which houses the Adult Degree Program, was quoted as saying, "These new majors address growing demand in critical fields and reflect our mission to support adult learners who want to create new opportunities for themselves by achieving their academic and professional goals.”

The chemical and biological health studies major is designed for individuals who are looking to pursue graduate studies or are changing careers to fields like dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and more. Students will learn the fundamentals of these fields, like how to communicate scientific information, how to analyze data, and understanding health and disease.

Dr. Beth Bowman, who serves as assistant dean and pre-health advisor in the College of Science and Mathematics, said of the new program, "We are excited to launch this program for individuals who are often career changers, often overlooked but passionate about entering health care. We provide the academic rigor and one-on-one support these focused, motivated students need to succeed in competitive graduate programs and reach their potential. I am so excited to be able to work individually with the students as they navigate their journeys in their own unique way."

The new education policy major is unique in that Belmont University is one of only a handful of institutions in the country to offer the program at an undergraduate level. It is designed to teach individuals how to advocate for students and help improve student outcomes around the world. The major prepares individuals to pursue graduate degrees and teaching certification for those who wish to examine education as a whole before becoming a teacher. The major is rigorous, with a required minor outside of education, a study abroad experience, and an internship, both of which will be education-focused.

Dr. Jim McIntyre, who serves as dean of the College of Education and as assistant provost for academic excellence, said of this new major, "The education policy major fills a critical gap in preparing professionals who understand both the classroom and the broader systems that shape educational outcomes. Our graduates will have the unique perspective needed to drive meaningful change in education policy, whether at the school, district or national level. This program reflects Belmont's commitment to developing leaders who can transform education for the next generation."

Belmont University recently announced tuition discounts for individuals participating in the Adult Degree Program, with a discount of up to 60% for adult learners.

For more information about Belmont University, visit the school’s website.