Nashville State's School of Business and Professional Studies is opening doors for students, offering over 39 programs to help them jumpstart an engaging career. Dr. Christie Ferguson, the school's dean, is actively guiding students to tailor their academic journey to match their ambitions. "We can get you in the right area and the right field and pair you with the right industry mentor to help you get your foot in the door after you graduate," Ferguson told Nashville State News.
In her first year as dean, Ferguson continues to also act as director of paralegal studies, aiming to seamlessly help students navigate and find their place in the professional sphere. "It's helping them learn all of the different areas and advising students on what's best for their particular interests and goals. And then we can get them on the right pathway," she explained. The school's program choices range from two-year associate degrees in fields like Accounting and Business, positioned to lead directly into the workforce or to facilitate transfer to a bachelor's program.
For those leaning towards a speedier entrance into the job market, the school offers technical certificates in specialties such as Culinary Arts, Logistics, and Hotel Management. These various program options are just a glimpse of what the School of Business houses. "My goal is to promote and position our college as the go-to place for any business or professional development," Ferguson said, underscoring the institution's integral role in driving community and corporate success.
Partnerships with educational institutions and local industry stand out as a strategic move to bridge the gap between education and employment. For instance, Nashville State has established a direct business degree transfer pathway to Belmont University, and a collaboration with Austin Peay University and the Clarks-Montgomery County School System to provide an accelerated route for students aiming to become teachers. Ferguson proudly shared, "We are trying to create new grow your own opportunities and building new transfer pathways. And we’re working with companies and partnerships to create all kinds of new opportunities for students."
The dedication of the school’s faculty and staff doesn't go unnoticed by Ferguson. She praised their advising efforts, stating, "Our faculty do a great job advising students as to which option is best for them." For students and graduates, the emphasis isn't just on academic achievement but also on the readiness to take on real-world tasks. Ferguson hopes that students feel a deep sense of pride in their accomplishments upon exiting the school's doors.
Dr. Ferguson encourages those interested in business or professional studies to reach out for guidance on which path might suit best. "If you don’t know what’s in the school of business come see us. We have so much you might not even be aware of and all the paths that might be open to you, so come see us," she encouraged interested individuals.
