Towson University received approval from the University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents on Fri., Sept. 19, to launch a College of Graduate Studies this fall, marking a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to graduate education. The decision elevates the current Office of Graduate Studies to a formal college, recognizing the scope and impact of TU’s graduate programs, which serve more than 3,000 students across 80 degree offerings.

The college is expected to advance enrollment growth, strengthen faculty engagement and position TU to continue progress toward Carnegie R2 research classification. The new college’s mission is to strengthen TU’s impact by helping graduate students gain advanced knowledge, build professional skills and prepare for careers that will make a difference in Maryland and beyond.

By consolidating administrative structures under the new college, TU will strengthen graduate student support services, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and increase visibility and advocacy for graduate education. The transition will elevate existing structures and branding, creating a clear identity for TU’s graduate community.

David Ownby, Ph.D., serves as interim dean for the new College of Graduate Studies. TU will now launch a nationwide search for the dean.