University of Tennessee launches new degree in civic and constitutional thought

University of Tennessee launches new degree in civic and constitutional thought

Days before the country celebrates its 250th birthday, the University of Tennessee has approved a new undergraduate degree in civic and constitutional thought.

Why it matters: Leaders say students pursuing the degree will get a "comprehensive study of the American constitutional political tradition."

Behind the curtain: The program was an outcropping of UT's Institute of American Civics, which state lawmakers established in 2022 with broad bipartisan support.

What they're saying: Josh Dunn, executive director of the institute, tells Axios he wants students pursuing the new bachelor's degree to emerge "prepared for a range of professional endeavors."

  • "We are trying to create thoughtful citizens who will go on to be civic leaders regardless of their profession."

    • The bottom line: The new degree won approval from UT's board this week, a stroke of lucky timing as the July 4 weekend approaches.

  • It will launch in the fall.