For a proposal called “GSW Moving Forward,” Georgia Southwestern State University received a $25,000 U.S. Department of Education grant by way of the Adult Learning Consortium of the University System of Georgia.

The primary objective of the grant is to "Improve access to programs and courses that are clearly identified as serving adult learners or leading to degree completion programs through distance learning,” said Charles Huffman, Ph.D., professor of psychology and director of GSW’s Prior Learning Assessment program. Kelly McCoy, Ph.D., College of Arts and Sciences dean, and Courtney McDonald, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology, will also be participating on this project.

The University will improve access for adult learners and military students by developing an online (eMajor) Bachelor of Science (BS) in general studies, a BS in criminal justice, and 18-hour certificate in criminal justice.

"The purpose of eMajor is to provide quality, innovative programs through traditional institutions in the University System of Georgia,” Huffman added. “While the focus is on increasing access to higher education and workforce development for Georgians, the programs will be open to students in other states as well."

The full name of the grant is the USG Adult Learning Consortium Adult-Learning Focused Innovation Grant. It follows the state’s “Complete College Georgia” and “Go Back. Move Ahead.” initiatives, which encourage adult learners to earn a college degree.

The anticipated offering of the BS in criminal justice will be Fall 2015, with the BS in general studies following closely behind.

For additional information, call (229) 931-2316 or email [email protected]