
CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University is proud to announce the creation of a new Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education (BSSE) program, a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to developing future educators. The program was officially approved at the December State Board meeting of the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), setting the stage for its launch in 2025.
The BSSE program was designed to address the growing need for qualified secondary educators and was developed through a collaborative effort between Delta State’s leadership and faculty. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical teaching experience, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the classroom.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leslie Griffin, one of the key contributors to the program’s development, expressed her gratitude to the dedicated team involved: “This fantastic news is the result of the diligent team and leadership that shepherded the process. Under Dr. Merideth Van Namen’s leadership, alongside the contributions of content faculty and the tenacity of Mandy Johnson and Anjanette Powers in navigating licensure processes, the program came together in an effective and timely manner despite many challenges.”
Delta State University President Dr. Daniel J. Ennis celebrated the program’s approval, saying, “This is fantastic news. The BSSE program embodies our dedication to shaping the future of education by producing well-prepared, passionate secondary school teachers.”
The program’s approval follows an extensive development and review process. Mandy Johnson, Unit Assessment Research Director & CAEP Coordinator, shared the news after the State Board meeting, stating, “I hope this will open new doors for students and contribute to educational excellence across Mississippi.”
Interim Dean of the College of Education, Arts and Humanities Dr. Merideth Van Namen said, “The approval marks a significant milestone in Delta State’s history, and we’re excited to take the next steps to ensure the program is fully operational and impactful for future students.”
The BSSE program will begin enrolling students after a mandatory 30-day implementation period, with preparations already underway for a smooth rollout. For more information about the program and enrollment, please visit Delta State University’s website at https://www.deltastate.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/bs-secondary-education/.