Troy University is making waves this fall with its new Ph.D. in Criminology. This launch marks an important milestone, as it helps the university reach the top level of degree classification with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
SACSCOC evaluates schools based on the highest degree they offer. With this new program, Troy now boasts four doctoral programs, achieving Level VI, the highest rank. This accomplishment shines a light on the university’s growth and its evolution into a comprehensive higher education institution.
Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., the Chancellor, celebrated this achievement. “From our beginnings as a teaching college to being recognized as a doctoral institution, Troy University’s journey has been one of steady success,” he said. He emphasized that this milestone reflects the hard work of faculty, the leadership team’s vision, and the dedication of students and alumni.
This fall also marked the arrival of the first group of Ph.D. in Criminology students. Troy’s journey into doctoral education began in 2010 with its Doctor of Nursing Practice, followed by the Ph.D. in Sport Management in 2017 and the Ph.D. in Global Leadership in 2020. To date, over 230 doctoral students have graduated from Troy, while more than 500 have been admitted.
Dr. Mary Anne Templeton, the Associate Provost for Academics, praised the faculty’s dedication to innovation. “Their efforts in developing new programs have positioned Troy University among the top institutions in the nation,” she noted.
This advancement comes on the heels of other notable accomplishments. Earlier this year, Troy earned a Doctoral Classification in the updated 2025 Carnegie Institutional Classifications. Additionally, it received recognition as a Carnegie Research University, highlighting the research contributions of smaller institutions. A recent decision by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education allowed Troy to offer more doctoral degrees, paving the way for further growth as a research institution.
Dr. Kerry Palmer, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, pointed out that the university’s rising reputation is a vital step toward being recognized as an R2 research institution. “We aim to expand our research efforts to elevate our Carnegie Classification further,” he said, underscoring a commitment to fostering discovery and innovation that impacts the community positively.
According to a recent report from the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of doctoral programs in the U.S. has been steadily increasing, showing a growing demand for advanced education. This trend reflects a broader push for higher education institutions to offer more specialized and research-based programs, aligning with Troy’s recent developments.
As Troy University continues to grow, its focus on innovation and academic excellence will likely lead to even greater achievements in the future.
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