For the first time since 1964, N.C. Central University will have a Ph.D. program. On Oct. 7, UNC system Board of Governors approved NCCU's advanced degree program in integrated biosciences.
In fall 2012, NCCU will welcome its first doctoral students in biomedical sciences and pharmaceutical sciences.
"This program has been in the making for years, starting with former Chancellor Julius Chambers, who worked hard to ensure that the state invested millions of dollars in research space and facilities here at NCCU," said Chanta Haywood, dean of graduate studies.
Haywood said NCCU is a powerhouse when it comes to research, teaching and service in health disparities.
A recent report by the National Science Foundation states that African Americans make up about 12 percent of the U.S. population, but only account for 3 percent of working scientists and engineers.
The curriculum will include courses in physical sciences, computation and information sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, life sciences and mathematics.
"Our Ph.D. in integrated biosciences is consistent with the UNC Tomorrow Initiative, our own mission, and our strengths in health disparities research and biotechnology," said Chancellor Nelms.
NCCU has constructed nearly 150,000 square feet of state-of-the-art science space in the last 12 years.
The Research Triangle Park is home to major players in the biosciences, including BASF, Bayer, PharmaNet Development Group, and Valeant Pharmaceu-ticals.
NCCU's bioscience program will focus on issues surrounding health disparities—diseases that affect low- income communities— including diabetes, hypertension, breast and prostate cancer, obesity and fetal alcohol syndrome.
Haywood said she plans to recruit students to the program who high achievers with proven interests in biology, pharmacology, biochemistry and other related fields.
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