Georgia Southern University’s College of Science and Mathematics (COSM) received approval from the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia to launch a Doctor of Philosophy in biomedical sciences degree. The regents approved the academic program during a meeting Oct. 14.

Pending final approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, classes will begin in fall 2026 on the Statesboro and Armstrong campuses.

“This new Ph.D. program creates an invaluable educational pipeline, completing the continuity of training we envisioned when we launched our undergraduate program,” said Michael Huggins, Ph.D., COSM dean. “Now, students can begin their journey with us as freshmen, engage in mentored research throughout their bachelor’s degree and seamlessly transition into a terminal degree that accelerates their progress toward becoming independent researchers.”

The Ph.D. in biomedical sciences program will cover a range of topics including immunology, virology, neuroscience and genetics. After completing core courses, students will select advanced courses with their faculty mentor, tailoring the students’ research to their areas of interest. The addition of the degree brings opportunities for students and faculty alike to pursue research in a variety of fields under the biomedical umbrella.

“This new Ph.D. program in biomedical sciences is a testament to Georgia Southern University’s commitment to advancing health care innovation,” said Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Avinandan Mukherjee, Ph.D. “By fostering top-tier research and cultivating skilled professionals, we are directly contributing to the economic vitality and robust health of our region and the broader health care industry.”

The addition of a terminal degree in the field of biomedical sciences will complement the Bachelor of Science in biomedical sciences degree added in 2025.