The presidents of Albany State University and Darton State College have announced the names of the five colleges that will make up the academic unit of the new Albany State University. The Darton College of Health Professions will be established as one of the colleges. The other colleges are the College of Business, College of Arts and Humanities, College of Sciences and Technology and College of Education.
 
"As we move forward through the consolidation process, we are looking to align resources and programs to ensure the success of the new university," said ASU President Art Dunning. "We are continually assessing the current programs at Albany State University and Darton State College, the needs of the local community and career opportunities for our graduates. We want to make sure we are offering the best learning outcomes for our current and future students. The establishment and naming of the Darton College of Health Professions helps us to provide continuity in healthcare education and services in our region."
 
The DSC Health Sciences Division is noted for its 50-year history of providing diverse and comprehensive curricula, which support the healthcare learning needs of students. Programs include nursing, dental hygiene, emergency medical services and health information technology. Albany State University has a long history of preparing nurses and nurse practitioners for careers. Combining the two entities to form the Darton College of Health Professions supports the new university's desire to offer excellence in teaching and learning, thus becoming the first-choice institution for students, according to Dunning.
 
"The new college capitalizes on the existing reputation of the Darton name which has been synonymous with excellence in health sciences education in Southwest Georgia," said DSC Interim President Richard Carvajal. "Health professions will continue to be in demand throughout Southwest Georgia and the nation. We look forward to growing the programs as a part of the new university to help with the healthcare needs in the communities we serve."
 
Through the effective and efficient allocation of resources from ASU and DSC, the new Albany State University will become the premier university for health professionals in Southwest Georgia, according to Dunning.
 
As the consolidation continues, more detailed information will be released about the Darton College of Health Professions. The names of three colleges will not change under the new university. However, the College of Sciences and Technology is a name change to more strategically align its identity with its academic offerings that lead to degrees in mathematics, computer science and natural and forensic sciences.
 
The College of Business has academic offerings that lead to degrees in accounting, business information systems, fire services, administration, management, marketing and supply chain and logistics management.
 
The College of Arts and Humanities has academic offerings that lead to degrees in criminal justice, psychology and sociology; English, modern languages and mass communication; the fine arts; history and political science; public administration; and social work.
 
The College of Education has academic offerings that lead to degrees in teacher education, school counseling and educational leadership.