Development of Academic Programs Leads to New Names for Three Departments

Minneapolis, MN - Three of NCU's academic departments have received new names. The changes, necessitated by the addition of new majors as well as updates to existing programs, were approved this month by the Executive Committee of NCU's Board of Regents. The departments affected include the Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, the Education Department, and the newly created English Department.

Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences

With the addition of majors in Alcohol & Drug Counseling and Social Work, the Psychology Department's new name better reflects the breadth of majors now being offered by the department. These new majors have received much interest from students, with 24 students declared in these majors since their initial offering this fall.

Education Department

Formerly the Elementary Education Department, the addition of a Secondary Education program to the department fulfills the vision shared by the Education Department Faculty for some time. Students studying Secondary Education may receive preparation to teach social studies, English, or music, with the possibility that a math program will be added. The department is excited to offer these new options to students who wish to make an impact in the field of education.

English Department

The creation of the English Department reflects new and revised opportunities for students in several areas. In recent years, English majors have been a part of the Communication Arts Department, which also includes programs in journalism and media communications. The Communication Arts Department will continue to train students in those areas, and additional course offerings will allow students to pursue an associate's degree in video production or visual communications as well. These may be studied as stand-alone degrees or as part of a bachelor's degree program.

Students who choose to study English may now join the Education Department and earn their teaching license, or may focus their English program on either writing or literature.