KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — The University of Tennessee is expanding its academic offerings this fall with the launch of three new degree programs designed to prepare students for high-demand careers and address emerging challenges facing Tennessee and the nation.
University leaders say the programs reflect UT’s commitment to providing innovative educational opportunities while preparing graduates to become leaders in public service, technology, agriculture, business and other growing industries.
“As the needs of our society and state evolve, the University of Tennessee will rise to meet them,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor John Zomchick. “These new degree programs demonstrate our commitment to developing innovative academic opportunities that prepare students to lead, solve complex challenges, and make their mark in their professions and communities.”
New Civic and Constitutional Thought Degree
Among the new offerings is a Bachelor of Arts in Civic and Constitutional Thought, the first academic degree program established through the Institute of American Civics within UT’s Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs.
The interdisciplinary program is designed to complement other majors and help students build knowledge of American government, constitutional principles, political philosophy and public leadership.
University officials say graduates will be prepared for careers in law, education, government, communications, nonprofit organizations, public service and business.
Institute of American Civics Executive Director Joshua Dunn said the program provides students with a deeper understanding of the institutions and ideas that shape American public life while encouraging critical thinking and civil discourse.
New Bioinformatics Program Focuses on Agriculture and Technology
UT is also launching a Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics, housed within the Herbert College of Agriculture’s Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology.
The university says the degree is the only undergraduate program of its kind in the Southeastern Conference.
Bioinformatics combines biological sciences and advanced computing to analyze large datasets, genomics, artificial intelligence and other technologies. Students will gain experience applying those tools to issues such as food security, sustainable agriculture, crop production and environmental stewardship.
Herbert College of Agriculture Dean David White said future agricultural leaders will need expertise in both biological sciences and technology.
“This program represents the future of agriculture and environmental stewardship,” White said.
State’s First Fully Online RHTM Master’s Degree
At the graduate level, UT is launching Tennessee’s first fully online Master of Science in Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management.
The program, housed in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, was created to meet growing demand for professionals skilled in leadership, data analytics, entrepreneurship and consumer behavior.
Designed primarily for working professionals, the degree will be delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedules.
The curriculum includes instruction in:
- Data analytics
- Strategic leadership
- Consumer and market research
- Customer experience management
- Entrepreneurship
- Sustainable tourism
- Organizational management
Program leaders say the degree emphasizes real-world problem-solving and data-driven decision-making.
Industrial Design Degree Approved for 2027
UT officials also announced that the UT Board of Trustees and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission have approved Tennessee’s first Bachelor of Fine Arts in Industrial Design program.
The degree will launch in Fall 2027 within the College of Architecture and Design’s School of Design.
Students will have access to existing facilities, including woodshops and the Fab Lab maker space, while partnering with industry and community organizations throughout Tennessee.
School of Design Director Sarah Lowe said the program will combine traditional industrial design principles with emerging technologies and interaction design to meet evolving workforce demands.
University leaders say the new programs underscore UT’s continued efforts to align academic offerings with industry needs while preparing graduates to solve complex challenges across Tennessee and beyond.
