Kentucky State University launches two new bachelor degree programs

Kentucky State University is set to launch two new bachelor degree programs: the Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Science and the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy. Both programs received approval from the Council on Postsecondary Education on January 30, 2026. The undergraduate Aquatic Science degree program is the first of its kind in Kentucky, and the university is working toward approval for a master’s degree option in Public Policy, giving the students who earn their bachelor degree a further path forward.

According to an article on Kentucky State University’s website that discusses the new Aquatic Science degree, Dr. Andrew Ray, who serves as the chair of the School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, was quoted as saying of the new addition, “Kentucky State University has been a national leader in aquaculture research and education for more than 40 years. This new undergraduate program gives students the scientific foundation and practical skills to manage aquatic resources sustainably — whether that means raising fish for food, managing natural water bodies, or ensuring clean water for communities. It’s an essential step toward addressing the global challenges that connect water, food, and human health.”

The new Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Science program is focused on aquatic systems and sustainable resource management, giving students the skills they need to help tackle food insecurity and obtain clean water for all. The program, which is part of the School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, will provide students with hands-on learning experiences that will familiarize them with aquatic ecology, limnology, water chemistry, aquaculture systems, marine biology, and fisheries science. Students will have access to the university’s Aquatic Research Center for hands-on learning in its hatcheries, research ponds, nutrition laboratory, and production technologies building.

The School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, which has been designated as a Program of Distinction by the Council on Postsecondary Education, also offers a Master of Science in Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, an undergraduate and graduate certificate in Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, and a minor in Aquaculture. The university is also working toward creating a PhD program in Aquaculture and Aquatic Science.

The types of careers someone with a bachelor degree in Aquatic Science could pursue include aquaculturist, hatchery manager, hydrologist, watershed scientist, fisheries biologist, and water treatment expert.

Dr. Marcus Bernard, who serves as the dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources and the director of the Land Grant Program, said, “This program embodies the land-grant mission at its best. Kentucky State is connecting world-class research to the real-world needs of communities — helping secure safe, sustainable food systems and clean water for future generations. With this degree, we are opening the door for more students to take part in that work during their academic journey.”

In a separate article on Kentucky State University’s website that discusses the new Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy degree, Dr. Frederick A. Williams Jr., who serves as the chair of the School of Criminal Justice and Government Relations, was quoted as saying of the new addition, “This program gives students a clear line of sight from the classroom to the public square. Public policy shapes what communities experience every day, and this degree will help our graduates build the skills to lead, collaborate, and deliver results in Kentucky and beyond.”

The new Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy program will be housed in the School of Criminal Justice and Government Relations within the College of Arts and Sciences. It will prepare students to work in roles in government, nonprofit agencies, and the private sector, through coursework that explores policy analysis, data-informed decision-making, professional communication, and ethics.

Dr. Eslam M. Omar is a subject-matter expert who helped develop the program’s curriculum. He said, “Students will learn how to evaluate policy options, interpret data, and communicate recommendations clearly. Just as important, the curriculum reinforces ethics and accountability — core expectations for anyone preparing to serve the public.”

The curriculum includes both foundational courses and specialized courses that will help prepare students for careers like legislative aide, policy analyst, government relations specialist, regulatory compliance professional, and nonprofit advocate. Students will have the option to choose to double major in Public Policy and Political Science. The curriculum has been designed to be in alignment with theNetwork of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration.

For more information about Kentucky State University, visit the school’s website.