Innovative Online Programs: A Blueprint for Success from Spelman College

by Angela Britcher
April 18, 2024
Innovative Online Programs: A Blueprint for Success from Spelman College

The eSpelman Model

Spelman College is already well-known for its commitment to the academic excellence and empowerment of women scholars. The school is finding new success with the successful launch of eSpelman. This innovative online certificate program was designed to alleviate student debt and has surpassed all expectations, generating over $2 million in its inaugural year. The success of eSpelman offers a scalable model for institutions looking to expand their reach and impact.

Watch the full interview with Tiffany Watson.

Strategic Financial Solutions: The Genesis of eSpelman

The financial strategy behind eSpelman was articulated by We talked to Dr. Tiffany Watson who explained the financial strategy behind eSpelman. Administrators wanted to provide financial support for students burdened by debt after graduation. “How can we leverage this great work to generate more alternative revenue and scholarship dollars for undergraduate students, also serving a new population of learners in the way Spelman has done so well in teaching and learning excellence for so many years?” Watson explained. The concept for eSpelman is a combination of creating alternative revenue streams and scholarships while also catering to a new demographic of learners.

The Essence of Spelman: Academic Rigor and Empowerment

What sets eSpelman apart is what Dr. Watson refers to as the ‘Spelman secret sauce’—a unique combination of academic rigor, empowerment, and confidence-building. She shared, “How can Spelman leverage the brand of excellence? What our faculty do in the design of their courses and the empowerment and confidence building that we do for our women scholars and take all of that and harness all of that, what we call the secret sauce or the Spelman secret sauce.” This formula has been integral to Spelman’s legacy and is now seamlessly integrated into the certificate programs, addressing critical workforce needs and facilitating immediate application of skills in professional settings.

Cultivating Changemakers: The eSpelman Ethos

eSpelman is built on the belief that education is a catalyst for change. Dr. Watson emphasizes that eSpelman students are equipped to become influential changemakers. “You’re going to go out here, and you’re going to change the world. You may be the only person that looks like you at that table, but you’re going to be empowered to know you have a voice, the experience, and the tools to make change,” Watson said. This philosophy permeates every facet of eSpelman, from teaching methodologies to co-curricular activities, ensuring a comprehensive and transformative experience for professional learners.

eSpelman: A Testament to Tradition and Innovation

eSpelman stands as a testament to Spelman College’s unwavering commitment to educational innovation and its mission to empower women to lead and effect positive change. It exemplifies how the fusion of tradition and innovation can create meaningful opportunities that align with contemporary needs and future aspirations.

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Angela Britcher

Angela Britcher is an instructional designer and content creator with The Babb Group. She is also an adjunct professor of business and communications.
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