With the launch of its fourth doctoral program this fall, the Ph.D. in Criminology, Troy University has advanced to the highest level of degree classification by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

SACSCOC, Troy University’s regional accrediting body, ranks institutions based on the highest level of degree offered. With four programs at the doctoral level, TROY has now reached Level VI, the top classification.

The achievement represents another milestone in Troy University’s continued maturation as a comprehensive institution of higher learning.

“From our beginnings as a teacher’s college to our recognition today as a doctoral institution at the highest level, Troy University’s story is one of steady growth and success,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “Achieving Level VI recognition affirms the hard work of our faculty and staff, the vision of our leadership team, and the dedication of our students and alumni. It is a milestone that not only reflects how far we have come but also paves the way for even greater achievements in the years ahead.”

The Ph.D. in Criminology welcomed its first cohort of students this fall. TROY’s doctoral offerings began with the Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2010, followed by the Ph.D. in Sport Management in 2017 and the Ph.D. in Global Leadership in 2020. To date, the University has graduated more than 230 doctoral students and admitted more than 500, including current students.

Dr. Mary Anne Templeton, Associate Provost for Academics, praised faculty for their commitment to innovation and excellence in program development, crediting them with helping TROY achieve this higher level of academic recognition.

“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our faculty, whose vision and innovation have made this achievement possible,” Dr. Templeton said. “Their willingness to develop new doctoral programs and to push the boundaries of what we offer has positioned Troy University among the top institutions in the nation.”

The SACSCOC advancement follows several recent distinctions. Earlier this year, Troy University was awarded Doctoral Classification in the modernized 2025 Carnegie Institutional Classifications. In addition, TROY was recognized as a Carnegie Research University, a new designation created to highlight the research contributions of smaller institutions.

In 2023, the Alabama Commission on Higher Education approved an instructional role change that authorized TROY to offer additional doctoral degrees—a move that set the stage for the University’s continued growth as a research institution.

Dr. Kerry Palmer, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said the University’s rising reputation as a doctoral-level institution is a step toward its broader goal of recognition as an R2 research institution.

“This recognition from SACSCOC is another important step in Troy University’s journey,” Dr. Palmer said. “Our next goal is to continue expanding our research enterprise and to position TROY for the next level of Carnegie Classification. We are committed to fostering a culture of discovery and innovation that will not only enhance our academic reputation but also make a lasting impact on the communities we serve.”