Higher education research platform recognizes top master’s programs across disciplines Hobbs, NM – OnlineMasters.com, an independent higher education research platform specializing in online graduate education, has recognized multiple programs at University of the Southwest in its 2026 rankings. The university earned top distinctions across several online master’s disciplines, reinforcing its leadership in academic quality, affordability, and career-focused education. OnlineMasters.com uses a rigorous, data-driven methodology to evaluate accredited online master’s programs nationwide. Each program is assessed using a proprietary scoring model that measures performance across four core factors: academic quality, graduation outcomes, cost and return on investment, and student support resources. Programs receive an Online Master’s Score ranging from 0 to 100 based on their overall performance. The evaluation process incorporates trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, publicly available institutional disclosures, and aggregated performance indicators from recognized ranking organizations such as U.S. News & World Report. All data undergo multiple rounds of internal review to ensure accuracy, consistency, and objectivity. In today’s rapidly evolving workforce shaped by artificial intelligence and technological innovation, graduate education has become an increasingly important differentiator. Online master’s programs that demonstrate strong academic rigor, competitive tuition structures, measurable career pathways, and robust support for online learners stand out in the rankings. University of the Southwest has been recognized for the following 2026 awards: Best Online Master's in Counseling Programs | Ranked 18 https://www.onlinemasters.com/best-degree-programs/counseling/ Best Online Master's in Online Teaching Degree Programs | Ranked 20 https://www.onlinemasters.com/best-degree-programs/education/online-teaching/ Best Online Master's in School Counseling Degree Programs | Ranked 50 https://www.onlinemasters.com/best-degree-programs/counseling/school-counseling/ This recognition underscores University of the Southwest’s commitment to delivering high-quality online graduate education designed to meet the demands of modern industries and support long-term student success. “Being recognized by OnlineMasters.com affirms our commitment to academic excellence and student outcomes,” said Dr. Ryan Tipton, university President. “We are proud that our online master’s programs continue to provide students with the knowledge, flexibility, and career preparation needed to succeed in a competitive and rapidly changing workforce.” ⸻ ABOUT ONLINEMASTERS.COM OnlineMasters.com is an independent higher education research platform dedicated to evaluating accredited online master’s programs across the United States. Led by a team of data analysts and higher education researchers, the organization operates independently to ensure objectivity and methodological integrity. Using verified federal education data, aggregated third-party rankings including U.S. News & World Report, and labor market research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, OnlineMasters.com produces transparent, research-driven rankings that evaluate academic quality, affordability, return on investment, and student support. The platform’s mission is to provide clear, unbiased insights that empower prospective graduate students to make confident, informed decisions about advanced education. To learn more, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 29, 2025 Hobbs, NM — The University of the Southwest is proud to announce the establishment of a new endowed scholarship made possible through the generosity of the Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Memorial Foundation. The $25,000 gift will create a permanent scholarship fund to support students pursuing degrees in education and teaching, ensuring that Dr. Trujillo’s enduring commitment to educational excellence continues to inspire future generations. “This gift is not only an investment in our students, but also a profound affirmation of our mission to serve, lead, and transform through education,” said Dr. Ryan Tipton, President of the University of the Southwest. “We are deeply honored by the Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Foundation’s trust in our university and moved by their dedication to the teaching profession.” Dr. Karen M. Trujillo was a lifelong educator, mentor, and advocate for New Mexico’s schools. Her legacy as a teacher, administrator, and statewide leader has left an indelible mark on education in New Mexico. Through this endowed scholarship, her legacy will live on in the aspirations and achievements of students who share her passion for teaching. Scholarships from the Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Endowed Fund will be awarded annually to students enrolled in the university’s College of Education who demonstrate a strong commitment to entering the teaching profession. This support will help reduce financial barriers, enabling more students to answer the call to educate, inspire, and lead in classrooms across New Mexico and beyond. “At a time when our communities urgently need dedicated and compassionate educators, this gift plants a seed of hope,” said Dr. Tipton. “It will grow into countless stories of service, leadership, and transformation, just as Dr. Trujillo did throughout her remarkable life.” The University of the Southwest extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Trujillo family and the Board of the Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Memorial Foundation for their vision, generosity, and partnership in shaping the future of education.

It is with great joy and anticipation that we celebrate the relaunch of the Southwest Journal of Arts & Sciences (SJAS)  on the University of the Southwest website. On behalf of the editorial team, I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Lopez for their consistent support in making this transition successful and to Shaye Smith for the exceptional work on the professional web design. I also want to take this opportunity to thank our authors, editors, and anonymous reviewers for their invaluable contributions to the success of the journal. One new feature I want to highlight is that we became a Crossref member in March 2024. Crossref is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to improving scholarly communications. Membership enables us to connect our content to a global network of online scholarly research, which includes over 19,000 members across approximately 150 countries. Crossref manages the world’s largest registry of Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) and metadata for scholarly research, facilitating an average of 1.1 billion DOI resolutions annually. This makes research objects easier to find, cite, link, assess, and reuse. According to Crossref’s monthly resolution reports, all of our DOIs were resolved (accessed) up to 299 times by December 2024. In December alone, our three unique DOIs for dissertations had 97 total resolutions, while our nine unique DOIs for SJAS  articles had 80 total resolutions. For doctoral candidates and research chairs: if you would like a dissertation to be assigned a DOI, please send me the student’s name, dissertation title, URL link, and year of publication. I will ensure that a DOI is added to the dissertation. Additionally, I encourage all scholars to register for ORCID, which stands for Open Researcher and Contributor ID. ORCID provides a free, unique, and persistent identifier (PID) for individuals engaging in research, scholarship, and innovation. Registration is free of charge and allows researchers to be uniquely identified and connected to their contributions across disciplines, borders, and time. By using ORCID, researchers can spend more time conducting their work and less time managing it. A link to ORCID registration can be found on the journal website. SJAS  serves as a platform for the exchange of information on topics in natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and more. We accept various formats, including full-length and letter-length research papers, reflective articles, review articles, work-in-progress reports on promising developments, case studies, and best practice articles written by scholars such as faculty, staff, and students. SJAS  is published annually, but we are open to publishing additional issues as needed. To ensure the rapid dissemination of information, we aim to complete the review process for each paper within 1–3 months of initial submission. We are currently preparing to publish the 2024 issue, which is expected to be available by April. Please check the flyer and Call for Papers on the journal website. We encourage more contributions to ensure the continued success of the journal and welcome any comments or suggestions that could help us improve its quality. We look forward to reading your submissions soon. You can access SJAS  at: https://www.usw.edu/academics/sjas Best regards, Yusheng Wu Editor-in-Chief

Faculty Job Openings Back Job title: Location: FLSA Classification: Reports to: Previous Next Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Full-time Core Faculty) Remote/Online Exempt Dean, College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Position goal: The goal for each member of the USW campus community is to believe and live consistently by the principles of the mission of the University. The USW mission is as follows: University of the Southwest is a Christ-centered educational community dedicated to developing men and women for a lifetime of servant leadership by emphasizing individual faith, responsibility, and initiative. Teaching at University of the Southwest adheres to belief in God, in the Bible as the inspired Word of God, in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and in the separation of church and state. University of the Southwest strives for excellence in academic curriculum, campus life programming, and student activities in a supportive educational community where freedom of thought and expression is honored and the demonstration of faith in acts of service is encouraged. At University of the Southwest, students are instructed and mentored by a faculty and staff who demonstrate Christ-centered values and maintain an environment where students can live and work cooperatively, valuing the multiple cultures from which they came. As a community of initiative, University of the Southwest challenges graduates to become enterprising members of our society contributing to the common good by advocating and participating in the productive commerce of free enterprise, the constitutional privilege of self-government, and the practical contributions of community service. Position Summary: The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is seeking a qualified candidate for a full-time core faculty position. A full-time faculty member in CAS supports and advances the University’s mission by providing expertise and experience in clinical mental health counseling, and promoting the academic achievement and personal development of students. The courses in clinical mental health counseling are offered in an online format to students working toward master’s degrees in clinical mental health counseling. Essential Functions: 1. Teach 24 semester credit hours each academic year, demonstrating excellence in teaching, scholarly activity, and professional development. 2. Maintain the highest level of professional ethics in accordance with the standards of the counseling profession. 3. Maintain highest level of professional licensure as full-time core faculty member. 4. Serve on departmental and university committees. 5. Meet and facilitate all scheduled courses. 6. Organize and inform students of course content, texts, readings, assignments, attendance/participation, methods of evaluation/assessment, including grading scales. 7. Assist with accreditation, assessment, and institutional effectiveness initiatives as assigned, including activities that support the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and programmatic accreditation standards (CACREP). 8. Submit final course grades to Registrar’s office by the established deadlines each term. 9. Attend departmental and university meetings. 10. Participate in professional development opportunities. 11. Ensure ADA compliance within classes assigned. Other responsibilities: Perform other related duties as assigned. Education, experience, & skills required: 1. Doctorate degree in Counselor Education from a CACREP-accredited doctoral program. 2. Must possess a professional counselor license, or be eligible to become licensed within the first year of teaching. 3. Possess a variety of work-related skills (e.g., time management skills, collegiality, collaboration, task completion, strong written/oral/technology skills, etc.). 4. Ability to multi-task, embrace change, organize, and prioritize. 5. Possess effective interpersonal skills. Education, experience, & skills Preferred: 1. University-level teaching experience. 2. Experience mentoring, supervising, or supporting graduate students during practicum, internship or other culminating clinical and research experiences. 3. Preferred experience with or knowledge of CACREP standards. Review of applications or nominees is ongoing. University of the Southwest is an EEO employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. APPLY NOW! Applications should be submitted via email to Veronica Torrez (vtorrez@usw.edu ) .

Faculty openings Adjunct Faculty - Clinical Mental Health Counseling Position Learn More Adjunct Faculty - General Application Pool Learn More Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Full-time Core Faculty) Learn More

Office of the Registrar Welcome to the USW Registrar's page, where you'll discover a rich array of academic services designed to support your educational journey. Our dedicated team is committed to providing a range of essential services, from enrollment and course registration to graduation and beyond. As a student, faculty member, or staff member, you'll find this portal to be your one-stop hub for accessing important records, policies, and processes crucial for your academic success. Explore the diverse tools and resources available here, all aimed at empowering you to achieve your academic goals. We are here to assist you with a wide spectrum of services, ensuring that your experience at our institution is as smooth and rewarding as possible. Your success is our priority, and we're here to guide you at every stage of your academic endeavor. Request Transcript Change Academic Information Change Personal Information FERPA Forms Request Overload Courses Drop Request Course Withdrawal University Withdrawal Request Leave of Absence Replacement Diploma Contact US Registrar Lissete Terrazas lterrazas@usw.edu (575) 492 - 2122 Office hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Thursday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Friday Office location: J.L. Burke Hall, 6610 Lovington Hwy, Suite 508, Hobbs, NM 88240 Change Academic Information First Name Last Name USW Email Student ID # Phone Number Current Degree Change Request What official change to your academic information are you requesting? Description I understand that changes to my academic program may affect my degree requirements. I am aware that I must complete any and all requirements resulting from this official request. I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! Request Overload Courses First Name Last Name USW Email Student ID # Current GPA Overload Hours Phone Number Degree/Program Overload Semester Which semester do you want overload for? Reason I understand that it may not be in my best interest to overload and accept full responsibility for my actions. I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! Drop Request This form is for students wishing to drop a course before the add/drop date . If the add/drop date has already passed, students must complete a Course Withdrawal Request form. First Name USW Email Student ID # Student Type What type of student are you? Drop Term What term do you want to drop a course from? Last Name Phone Number Classification Undergraduate or graduate? Residency Where do you live? Drop Course Reason I understand that drop requests are to be submitted no later than 11:59 PM (MST) on the add/drop date posted in the University Calendar for the term from which the course is being dropped. If the drop form is completed after the drop date, the request is not valid. University Calendar I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! Course Withdrawal This form is for students wishing to drop a course after the add/drop date , but before the withdrawal deadline . If the withdrawal deadline has already passed, the request is not valid. If a student chooses to withdraw from the university completely, they must complete the University Withdrawal form. IMPORTANT: If you have accepted any financial aid, withdrawing from a course (or multiple) can have substantial impacts. Read this before you proceed. First Name USW Email Student ID # Student Type What type of student are you? Withdrawal Term Withdraw from a course during... Last Name Phone Number Classification Undergraduate or graduate? Residency Where do you live? Withdrawal Course Reason I understand that withdrawal requests are to be submitted no later than 11:59 PM (MST) on the withdrawal deadline posted in the University Calendar for the term from which the course is being dropped. If the withdrawal form is completed after the withdrawal deadline, the request is not valid. University Calendar I understand that there will be NO REFUND after withdrawing from a course after the drop date. I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! University Withdrawal This form is for students wishing to completely withdraw from the university. IMPORTANT: If you have accepted any financial aid, withdrawing from the university can have substantial impacts. Read this before you proceed. First Name USW Email Student ID # Student Type What type of student are you? Last Name Phone Number Classification Undergraduate or graduate? Residency Where do you live? Reason I understand that by submitting this form, I will be withdrawn from all courses and the university. If I wish to attend future terms, I will need to re-apply to the university. There will be NO REFUND from the withdrawal of classes and/or the university after the drop date. University Calendar I understand if I live on campus, I am required to contact the Office of Student Life & Campus Affairs to withdraw from housing. Student Life I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! Request Leave of Absence First Name Last Name USW Email Student ID # Degree/Program Reason for Leave Why are you requesting leave? Leave Start Term Phone Number Classification Undergraduate or graduate? Mailing Address Additional Information Leave End Term I understand that a leave of absence does not relieve me of any financial obligations to the university. I have read and understand the university's refund policy. I understand a leave could affect my eligibility to receive or maintain financial. For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid. I understand if I live on campus, I am required to contact the Office of Student Life & Campus Affairs to withdraw from housing. Student Life I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! Replacement Diploma Student First Name Student Last Name Email Student ID # Degree/Program Diploma First Name Phone Number Delivery Method Mailing Address Diploma Last Name I understand that there will be a $50.00 replacement diploma fee. This fee is due before the printing of the replacement diploma and can be paid to the Business Office. I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy By clicking submit, I confirm my electronic signature and approve the request. Submit Your request has been submitted. We'll get back to you soon! Additional Files