News Summary
Lander University has restructured its academic system by launching the College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences. This move integrates nursing, exercise science, and public health programs to better address workforce needs in South Carolina’s healthcare sector. Led by Dr. Holisa Wharton, the new college is designed to improve collaboration among programs. Additionally, the university has announced a tuition freeze for the tenth consecutive year, keeping in-state undergraduate tuition at $10,000 for the academic year ahead.
Greenwood, SC – Lander University has officially restructured its academic college system, launching the new College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences (CNHPHS) at the start of the fall semester in 2025. This notable shift combines nursing, exercise science, and public health programs into a single entity, aiming to meet the growing workforce demands in South Carolina’s healthcare sector.
The establishment of CNHPHS is headed by Dr. Holisa Wharton, who will serve as the college’s dean. Under her leadership, the college intends to enhance academic collaboration among the merged programs while addressing the urgent need for qualified nurses and health professionals within the state.
Included in CNHPHS are:
- The School of Nursing, which boasts a 70-year history of nurse education and is led by Dr. Julie Crawford as assistant dean.
- The Department of Exercise Science and Human Performance, directed by Dr. Jeff Barfield as department chair.
- The Public Health program, coordinated by Dr. Claire Mensack.
The reorganization not only signifies a strategic alignment with Lander’s goals to better prepare its students for professional landscapes but also emphasizes initiative to improve student retention and attract top talent and resources through enhanced scholarship programs, improved facilities, and partnerships.
In conjunction with this restructuring, Lander University has announced a tuition freeze for the tenth year in a row. For the academic year 2025-2026, undergraduate, in-state tuition is set to remain at $10,000 per year. This tuition freeze aims to alleviate financial pressures on students and families in a landscape where national tuition costs have reportedly surged by 22%, according to data from U.S. News.
The decision to maintain current tuition levels was unanimously approved by Lander’s Board of Trustees. This freeze was first implemented back in 2016, making Lander University the first institution in South Carolina to take such a step. The freeze reinforces the university’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable education to students.
Lander University President Richard Cosentino expressed the institution’s dedication to ensuring that high-quality education remains within reach for all prospective students. By restructuring academic programs and maintaining tuition levels, Lander University is making strides toward enhancing its educational offerings while prioritizing affordability.
This dual approach—restructuring to better align educational offerings with workforce needs while maintaining an accessible tuition rate—positions Lander University as a significant player in the state’s higher education landscape, particularly in healthcare training.
FAQ
What programs are included in the College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences?
The college includes the School of Nursing, the Department of Exercise Science and Human Performance, and the Public Health program.
Who is the dean of the new college?
Dr. Holisa Wharton is the dean of the College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences.
What is the tuition for undergraduate in-state students for the 2025-2026 academic year?
The tuition for undergraduate in-state students will remain at $10,000 per year.
How many years has Lander University implemented a tuition freeze?
Lander University has implemented a tuition freeze for ten consecutive years.
Key Features of Lander University’s Restructuring and Tuition Freeze
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New College Established | College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences |
| Degree Programs | Nursing, Exercise Science, Public Health |
| Dean | Dr. Holisa Wharton |
| Tuition Fees | $10,000 per year for in-state undergraduates |
| Tuition Freeze Duration | 10 consecutive years |
| Commitment to Affordability | Maintaining education accessibility for all |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lander University Launches New College of Business and Technology
MUSC Launches $30 Million Health Innovation Funds
Spartanburg County Foundation Grants $150,000 for Life Sciences Talent Recruitment
Lander University Faculty Promotions Enhance Academic Excellence
Lander University Breaks Ground on New Nursing Facility
Lander University Breaks Ground on New Nursing Facility
Lander University Breaks Ground on New Nursing Facility
Lander University Celebrates Academic Excellence
Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Nursing Building at Lander University
Greenwood City Council Approves 2025 Paving List
Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Lander Introduces College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences
- GoLaurens: Lander University Freezes Tuition for 10th Year in a Row
- GoLaurens: Lander University and Eaton Partnership
- Wikipedia: Nursing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Health
Author: HERE Greenwood
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