Savannah State University is planning to launch a doctoral degree program that would make it the first public HBCU in Georgia's university system to offer a doctorate.
According to a community announcement, the university will offer the Doctor of Public Administration program in fall 2027, pending approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University leaders said the proposed degree would expand Savannah State's academic offerings while preparing professionals for leadership positions in government, higher education, nonprofit organizations and other public-serving institutions.
"This is a transformational moment in the history of Savannah State University," said Jermaine Whirl, president of Savannah State University.
"For more than 135 years, Savannah State has created pathways to opportunity and prepared leaders to serve their communities. Advancing toward our first doctoral program builds upon that legacy while opening an entirely new chapter for this institution. We are proud to make history while expanding the opportunities available to our students and the communities we serve."
The Doctor of Public Administration, or DPA, is designed for experienced professionals seeking advanced training in executive leadership, management, policy development and applied research. The program will focus on applying research and evidence-based practices to challenges facing communities and public institutions, according to the announcement.
Building on an existing foundation
The proposed degree builds on Savannah State's public administration programs. The university's Department of Political Science and Public Affairs currently offers a Master of Public Administration program centered on leadership, policy analysis and ethical decision-making.
"The Doctor of Public Administration represents a significant advancement of our academic mission and reflects the strength of our faculty, programs and commitment to academic excellence," said Marcus S. Cox, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. "The program will position Savannah State to educate leaders at the highest academic level while responding to the growing need for professionals who can translate research into effective policy, sound leadership and meaningful outcomes for the communities they serve."
Otilia Iancu, professor of public administration and chair of the Department of Political Science and Public Affairs, said the doctoral program is a natural extension of the university's existing work.
"For years, our public administration program has prepared students to become thoughtful, ethical and effective leaders in government and nonprofit organizations," Iancu said. "The Doctor of Public Administration is the next step in that legacy. It will give professionals an opportunity to deepen their expertise, conduct meaningful applied research and develop solutions to the increasingly complex challenges facing public institutions and the communities they serve."
Expanding opportunities in public service
University officials said the degree is expected to serve professionals across Savannah, coastal Georgia and beyond who want to pursue advanced education while continuing careers in public service.
The program also aligns with Savannah State's broader emphasis on public policy, civic leadership and public service, including its recently established John Lewis School of Public Policy and Social Sciences.
Additional details about admissions requirements, curriculum, faculty and the inaugural cohort will be announced later.
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This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Savannah State pursues historic first doctoral degree
