Ellington

“Essential” and “in demand” will best describe the graduates of two new degree programs at UTC: Master of Science Mathematics and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice.

Not only do the programs address a nationwide shortage of teachers in both fields, but graduates will also meet the growing needs of Chattanooga as local employers including Alstom, Volkswagen, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna and UNUM frequently seek advanced math degrees.

“We pride ourselves at UTC on being engaged in the community, and are always seeking opportunities to adequately fulfill the needs of our region,” says Dr. Phil Oldham, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs.

The area’s only Doctor of Nursing Practice program will help meet new health care standards. Instead of a master’s degree, all advanced practice nurses will be required to hold a doctorate degree by 2015. The expansion is a testament to the strength of UTC’s nursing program, which currently boasts a 100-percent pass rate for licensing exams. Training advanced practice nurses at the doctorate level makes them better equipped to translate current clinical research into their practices.

“We’re committed to graduating the best advanced practice nurses for the patients in our area, but also for our profession,” says Kay Lindgren, director of UTC’s school of nursing. “We’re very fortunate to have the resources to meet this growing need.”