Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Strategic Communications
Tuskegee University announces the launch of TUGC, its Tuskegee University Global Campus — a transformative new online learning platform designed to expand access to high-quality HBCU education.
A Modern Renaissance in Distance Learning
TUGC builds on Tuskegee’s legacy of innovation, tracing its roots to Booker T. Washington’s era and George Washington Carver’s iconic Jesup Wagon—which brought agricultural education directly to farmers who couldn’t come to campus. Today, TUGC offers the same pioneering spirit by delivering an HBCU experience online to students wherever they are.
Reaching the Underserved: Virtual Learners on the Rise
- For the 2024–2025 academic year, Tuskegee’s total enrollment reached 3,121, including 2,659 undergraduates and 462 graduate students
- Among these, 42 learners are enrolled exclusively in online programs, a dramatic increase from 27 in 2023–2024 — a 56% growth in just one year
- Over the past decade, online-only enrollment has surged by 425%, underscoring the long-term upward trend in virtual learning demand
This sustained growth demonstrates that virtual education isn't a temporary solution—it’s a lasting essential. And it’s only the beginning for TUGC.
Empowering Non‐Traditional and Affordability‑Mindful Learners
TUGC places special emphasis on students who face barriers to a traditional on‐campus experience:
- Non‑traditional learners, including veterans returning to civilian life, working adults, and parents.
- Students for whom brick-and-mortar education is cost‑prohibitive.
Now, these learners can access the same academic rigor, HBCU culture, and Tuskegee pride—online. TUGC is the answer for those who aspire to advance their education without relocating or sacrificing income.
Meet the Trailblazing Leader: Dr. Kevin N. Shriner
Driving the vision and launch of TUGC is Dr. Kevin N. Shriner, Executive Director of Global Campus. Reporting to Provost Dr. Thierno Thiam, Dr. Shriner brings 25+ years of expertise in online learning, enrollment strategy, and student success. A Fulbright Specialist and UPCEA Fellow, he embodies best practices in virtual higher education.
With degrees from Kansas State University, the University of Arkansas, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership, Dr. Shriner expressed his excitement.
“I am deeply honored to lead TUGC. I look forward to extending Tuskegee’s impact beyond Alabama’s borders while empowering place-bound learners to improve social and economic mobility through our high-quality programs,” he said.
TUGC: A Leap Toward Inclusive, Flexible Education
- Online bachelor’s and graduate programs will launch in Fall 2027, offering a full suite of Tuskegee curricula.
- Built on Quality Matters standardsand delivered by faculty certified through the Certificate for Teaching Online, students will benefit from recorded lectures, academic advising, tutoring, and success coaching
- With TUGC, Tuskegee is not just adapting to new educational realities—it’s leadingthe charge in creating accessible, equity-driven, virtual academic pathways for a diverse student population.
TUGC isn’t just another online campus—it’s Tuskegee University’s next Renaissance. Following in the footsteps of the Jessup Wagon, it carries the torch of community-centered innovation into the digital age. As virtual learners continue to grow in number and necessity, TUGC ensures that quality HBCU education is no longer confined by geography or economics—it’s accessible, engaging, and Tuskegee‑proud, wherever you are.
© 2026 Tuskegee University
