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Thomas More University introduces new academic programs

CRESTVIEW HILLS, Ky. — In response to the constantly evolving demands of the area’s workforce, Thomas More University’s Digital, Graduate, and Professional (DGP) programs has added several new offerings. These offerings are built with the intention of providing adult learners with needed flexibility while preparing them for successful careers with research-backed, in-demand skills.

Since its founding as Villa Madonna College 100 years ago, Thomas More has been committed to ensuring that all people have the ability to receive a college education. The widely recognized Thomas More Accelerated Program (TAP), which was introduced in the ’90s, opened the door for working adults to earn a degree on their terms and has now evolved into the current DGP programs.

This modern translation of programming aims to increase affordable access to a high-quality education, which is in line with the University’s mission as a Catholic Liberal Arts institution. “As a smaller university who has been in northern Kentucky now for 100 years, we know the community well, and we can also be nimble,” says Angela Crawford, Ph.D., Vice President of DGP programs at Thomas More.

“For example, we can customize credentials and professional development programs to meet the changing needs of organizations. We also have the ability to create specific cohorts of students all earning their undergraduate or graduate degrees together within the same organization. Talk about an excellent retention tool for high performers!”

Answering regional healthcare demand, Thomas More introduces an online Master of Nursing (MSN) program that can be completed in just 24 months. Amid the healthcare worker shortage, advanced practice nurses with an MSN can help fill critical roles.

The program is built for students looking to make the most out of their education, allowing individuals to choose one of two focus areas: healthcare informatics or executive leadership. The curriculum is an essential building block that extends the expertise gained from undergraduate education and valuable work experience. The first MSN cohort plans to launch on Jan. 10, 2022.

Adding to the array of accessible online programming, Thomas More University also launched a 100% online accelerated bachelor’s degree in psychology. Designed to meet students where they are, individuals can transfer up to 90 credit hours, allowing them to quickly finish their degree.

This program prepares students with critical skills for evaluating the veracity of content in our increasingly digital age. Graduates of Thomas More’s psychology program see post-graduate careers in fields such as social work, counseling, law enforcement, medicine, market research, and human resources.

Thomas More also seeks to accommodate those not interested in a degree-seeking program. The new non-credit micro-credentials and badges launched by DGP are in direct response to employer needs, adding valuable skills for employees. These professional credentials are created with working individuals in mind, with offerings in a self-paced, online format. Credential offerings differ from most other programs by integrating optional expert-led facilitated sessions.

“Right now, the labor market is a significant challenge for employers. Attracting, retaining, and engaging employees is critical,” says Crawford. “Through conversations with local leaders, we know that many employees need additional skills, such as leadership, management, logistics, supply chain, cybersecurity, human resources, and marketing, just to name a few. Over this past year, we acted quickly on their feedback and developed over 50 self-paced micro-credentials that can work around anyone’s schedule.”

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