Aquinas College Nashville Restructures, Focuses on Education Degrees
Aquinas College in Nashville, founded in 1961 by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, has announced a significant restructuring. The college seeks prayers and support as it navigates financial difficulties, fluctuating enrollment, and operational complexities. The decision will result in a shift to focus primarily on education degrees, with other majors and residential life being discontinued.
The Faculty of Educational Science at the University of Klagenfurt (Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt) has been offering bachelor's and master's degree programs in educational sciences since autumn 2017, specializing exclusively in this field. Aquinas College will follow suit, starting fall 2017, offering only bachelor and master degrees in education, philosophy, and theology. The Dominican Sisters believe this new focus will better prepare future teachers for Catholic schools.
The restructuring will lead to a downsizing of faculty, students, and staff. Over half of the students are expected to find other colleges, and 60 employees will be laid off. Residential life and student activities will also discontinue at the college.
Aquinas College in Nashville will undergo significant changes, focusing primarily on education degrees. The decision, made due to financial difficulties and operational complexities, will have no impact on other schools involved with the Dominican Sisters. The college seeks prayers and support for those affected by this decision.
