THEC Approves New UT Knoxville Degree, Recommends Investment in Student Success and Workforce Preparation

THEC Media Contact
Jessie Greene
[email protected]
Press Release

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) today approved a new business and technology degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and recommended state investment to recognize student success and strengthen Tennessee's workforce. Secretary of State Tre Hargett also assumed the role of THEC chair.

"Higher education delivers lasting value for Tennesseans and the communities they call home," said Dr. Steven Gentile, THEC Executive Director. "Today's actions connect state investment and educational opportunities to the outcomes our state needs. They advance THEC's Master Plan vision of every Tennessean earning a credential that leads to lifelong success and stronger communities."

The Commission approved UT Knoxville's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Information Systems for Business Innovation. The program will prepare graduates to use information systems, data, and emerging technologies to solve business challenges and improve organizational performance.

Planned to begin in the 2027-28 academic year, the program will prepare students for careers such as systems analyst, information security analyst, and information technology consultant. It will draw on existing courses, faculty expertise, and resources in UT Knoxville's Haslam College of Business.

Commissioners also approved THEC's FY2027-28 operating state appropriation recommendation, including $116.2 million to recognize the largest growth in outcomes at public universities, community colleges, and Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology in the 15-year history of the outcomes-based funding formula. The recommendation recognizes institutions' progress in helping students earn credentials and prepares campuses to meet the state's educational and workforce needs.

The recommendation incorporates Tennessee's updated 2026-2030 outcomes-based funding formula, which connects state investment to measurable results, including students' progress toward a credential and degree completion. Updates include a Workforce Investment Premium and revised measures for graduation rates and dual enrollment.

The funding recommendation also includes $5.9 million to meet increased demand for the Tennessee Student Assistance Award, a need-based grant that helps eligible Tennesseans afford college. THEC's recommendations inform the state budget process, with final appropriations determined by the Governor and General Assembly.

As Hargett assumed the chairmanship, the Commission recognized his advocacy for focused bachelor's degrees and more efficient pathways to a college credential.

"In recent years, Tennessee has developed a reputation for innovation in higher education which focuses on making college degrees more attainable while maintaining the quality students and employers expect," said Hargett. "In order for our state to continue our tremendous momentum, we must be relentless in preparing our students for the workforce needs of today and the future. The positive trajectory of our state can not be sustained without the strength of higher education in Tennessee."

THEC approved its focused bachelor's degree policy in July, creating a framework for institutions to propose programs requiring as few as 90 credit hours. These programs are designed to offer a more streamlined path to graduation while addressing workforce needs.

Commissioners also received an update on lottery-funded scholarships and THEC's ongoing review of program expenditures and student outcomes. The review will inform recommendations for the long-term sustainability of Tennessee's scholarship programs, with a report scheduled for submission to legislative education leaders in December.

Meeting materials are available on the THEC website.

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About the Tennessee Higher Education Commission
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly. As the state's higher education coordinating body, its mission is to build a strong higher education landscape that provides opportunities for all individuals to pursue high-quality education and high-value credentials.