MTSU has announced an exciting restructuring of its College of Behavioral and Health Sciences. Starting July 1, 2026, two current departments will split into three new ones, enhancing focus and support for students.
The Department of Health and Human Performance and the Department of Human Sciences will be reorganized into:
Department of Kinesiology and Sports Medicine: This will feature degrees in exercise science, physical education, and graduate programs in athletic training and exercise physiology, along with a doctoral degree in human performance.
Department of Health Sciences: This department will offer undergraduate degrees in nutrition, food science, and speech-language pathology, as well as public health degrees at both bachelor’s and master’s levels.
Department of Sport and Hospitality Management: It will introduce undergraduate programs in tourism and hospitality management, alongside master’s degrees in leisure, sport, and tourism management.
While these three departments will remain within the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, programs in Human Sciences will move to new colleges, aiming for greater visibility and growth. For example, Human Development and Family Science will transition to the College of Education, and the interior architecture program will join the School of Concrete and Construction Management in the College of Basic and Applied Sciences. The Textiles, Merchandising and Design program will be renamed Fashion Studies, better reflecting its focus.
CBHS Dean Peter Grandjean noted that these changes align with the unique goals and growth paths of each program. He believes that this restructuring allows for better support of students and faculty in responding to workforce demands.
Amy Aldridge, vice provost for Academic Programs, expressed her enthusiasm for the future of these programs, highlighting the thoughtful consideration that went into the restructuring.
This change comes at a time when many educational institutions are reevaluating their structures to better serve students and adapt to market needs. For instance, a recent survey showed that 70% of university students seek programs directly tied to career readiness.
By focusing on specialized fields, MTSU aims to enhance educational outcomes and prepare students for the changing landscape of work. It’s clear that this effort is not just about administrative shifts—it’s about ensuring students receive the best possible education and career preparation.
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