Historic Change: Ferrum College Begins Offering Graduate Programs

The first cohort of Ferrum College graduate students attend orientation via Zoom.

After more than a century of educating students as a training school, junior college, and four-year institution, Ferrum College now offers 100% online graduate degree programs: a Specialist in Education (EdS) in teacher leadership and coaching, and a Master of Science in psychology. The first cohort began in June 2020.

“This is an important and historic moment for Ferrum College,” said President David Johns. “We have been listening to our students and to our region, and as we have in the past, we grow and change when there is need. We are part of this community, and we are committed to helping the community thrive.”

Alumna Sandra Via has been named Dean of the School of Graduate and Online Education Studies. Via is a 2004 graduate of Ferrum College and has served the College for ten years as an adjunct professor, an associate professor of political science, and as the program coordinator of international studies. She holds a Master of Arts in political science from Virginia Tech and a doctorate in planning, governance, and globalization, also from Virginia Tech. She directs the implementation and logistical coordination of the graduate programs.

“I am honored and excited to be able to implement Ferrum College’s first graduate programs. Our new graduate degree programs embody our mission by promoting the intellectual, ethical, and civic growth of students into