TROY, Ala. (WSFA) – To meet workforce needs in the state, particularly in the city of Troy, Troy University is adding three new graduate programs.

The university will soon receive a Ph.D. program focused on criminology, a master’s program in data analytics in business administration, along with a Ph.D. in global health leadership. program.

“These new offerings demonstrate our continued commitment to providing relevant, forward-thinking education that serves both our students and the industries that will employ them,” said Kerry Palmer, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs at Troy University .

This is the first time the university has announced a new Ph.D. program since it was designated a doctoral institute in the fall of 2023. It now offers a total of four.

This is a move to strengthen local medical facilities, such as Troy Regional Medical Center.

“To have a global aspect and a global view of what health care really is, I think it will help prepare future leaders much better than the past,” said Troy Regional Medical Center CEO Rick Smith .

While larger cities may attract students for future employment, this education will give students more experience than just a clinical or administrative position, taking local care to a whole new level.

Smith said he also looks forward to students learning in the new medical facility on campus, which is equipped with simulation labs, physical and nursing programs and more.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency also supports these new programs.

“There are many opportunities and career paths, of course. With a degree in criminology, you could work for police departments, sheriff’s departments, court systems,” said Col. Jon Archer, director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

The program will teach students the skills to not only learn how a criminal commits a crime, but also why. It’s a skill that state law enforcement is looking for.

“We are very good at collecting data. I’m telling you, we’re experts at it. Having the time to analyze it, to look for your series, to look for your patterns, to look for those things, is where I think this program fits really well to help law enforcement,” Archer said.

Each program is online, with a curriculum of at least 60 hours in the Ph.D. programs.

Classes will start at the beginning of the new school year. Students are already enrolling.

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