UAB approves new graduate programs and restructuring in Nursing College

The University of Alabama System's Board of Trustees meeting on June 6, 2025, spotlighted significant academic developments, including the strategic reorganization of the Capstone College of Nursing and the introduction of new graduate programs at UAB.

The meeting kicked off with updates from the University of Alabama (UA), where officials announced revisions to six graduate certificates, aligning program titles with updated definitions from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education. Notably, the Capstone College of Nursing is set to undergo a major restructuring into three divisions: nursing practice, nursing leadership, and nursing and health advancement. This reorganization aims to enhance communication and collaboration within the college, with implementation expected by mid-August 2025.

UAB's agenda featured the final approval of a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biomedical and Health Informatics, designed to tackle challenges in healthcare and biomedical science. Additionally, two new master's programs were proposed: a Master of Science in Higher Education Intercollegiate Athletic Administration and a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology. The athletic administration program is particularly noteworthy as it fills a gap in higher education focused on sports management, while the exercise physiology program is expected to meet the growing demand for health and fitness professionals.

UAB also sought to simplify its Bachelor of Science degree in Biobehavioral Nutrition and Wellness to Nutrition Sciences, reflecting the program's content more accurately. Furthermore, the establishment of an endowed professorship in reproductive health research was approved, aimed at bolstering UAB's clinical and research capabilities.

At the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), a new 24-hour post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner was approved, enhancing training for nursing professionals. UAH also announced plans to establish a Department of Engineering Technology, responding to increased enrollment and community support.

The meeting concluded with a series of administrative and informational items, underscoring the University of Alabama System's commitment to evolving its academic offerings and addressing workforce needs in Alabama and beyond.