Special Education (Science) BSE Back The Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) in Special Education K-12 (SPED) program provides a comprehensive educational track while offering students the opportunity to specialize in one of four (4) focus areas: language arts, mathematics, general sciences, or social sciences. This program equips aspiring educators with the expertise and strategies needed to support students with diverse learning needs, ranging from mild to severe disabilities, across kindergarten to 12th grade. Through a blend of specialized pedagogical training and practical experience, graduates emerge as compassionate and skilled special education teachers who can design tailored curricula, implement individualized instruction, and create inclusive classroom environments, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential in the chosen subject area of specialization. Students in this degree plan are eligible to apply for the following supplementary programs: New Experienced Teachers (NExT+) Program Educator Preparation Program (EPP) The College of Education at University of the Southwest operates under the auspices of the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) that uses the standards developed by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) to evaluate education programs. For testing and licensure requirements for your specific program, refer to the New Mexico Department of Education Licensure Department. https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/bureaus/licensure/ Out-of-state students will need to contact the respective State’s Department of Education for testing and licensure requirements. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Special Education EdD Back The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Special Education program is specifically designed to develop expert practitioners dedicated to leading equitable and inclusive schools. Candidates will engage in scholarly inquiry and research to affect social change in the field of special education. This specialization is recommended for individuals seeking a leadership role in special education such as faculty of institutions of higher learning, administrators of special education programs, or consultants to educational agencies. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Tuition Details Previous Next

Federal Loans Back Previous Next Direct PLUS Loans 1. Purpose and Eligibility: Direct PLUS Loans, also known as Parent PLUS Loans and Graduate/Professional PLUS Loans, are federal loans offered through the U.S. Department of Education. These loans are designed to provide financial assistance to: Parents of dependent undergraduate students (Parent PLUS Loans) Graduate and professional students (Graduate/Professional PLUS Loans) PLUS Loans are credit-based, and eligibility depends on the borrower's creditworthiness. Borrowers must not have an adverse credit history to qualify. If they do, they may still be eligible with an endorser (co-signer) or by demonstrating extenuating circumstances. 2. Interest Rates: Direct PLUS Loans have fixed interest rates that are determined by Congress and can vary from year to year. These rates are generally higher than those for other federal student loans, such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans. Borrowers can check the Federal Student Aid website or contact their loan servicer for the most up-to-date interest rate information. 3. Borrowing Limits: The borrowing limits for Direct PLUS Loans are not constrained by a student's year in school or the cost of attendance, as they are with other federal loans. Instead, the loan amount can cover up to the total cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. 4. Credit Check: To apply for a Direct PLUS Loan, the borrower must undergo a credit check. The credit check assesses the borrower's credit history to determine eligibility. Adverse credit history includes issues like bankruptcies, unpaid collections, and defaults on loans. 5. Repayment Options: Direct PLUS Loan borrowers have several repayment options available: Standard Repayment: Fixed monthly payments over a ten-year term. Graduated Repayment: Payments start lower and increase over time. Extended Repayment: Fixed or graduated payments over an extended term (up to 25 years). Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plans: Payments are based on your income and family size, making them more manageable if your income is lower or unpredictable. Click here for more information about IDR plans. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): If you work in a qualifying public service or nonprofit job and make 120 qualifying payments, your remaining loan balance may be forgiven. Use this Loan Simulator to see your federal student loan repayment options. You can also learn more about repayment options here . 6. Loan Fees: Direct PLUS Loans may have loan fees, which are deducted from each disbursement. These fees are typically higher than those associated with other federal loans. 7. Application Process: To apply for a Direct PLUS Loan, borrowers must complete the PLUS Loan Application and undergo a credit check. Graduate/professional students applying for Direct PLUS Loans must have submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Parents applying for Parent PLUS Loans for dependent undergraduate students must also ensure the student has submitted the FAFSA. 8. Master Promissory Note (MPN): Once approved for a Direct PLUS Loan, borrowers must sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN), a legal document outlining the terms and conditions of the loan. 9. Responsibilities of Borrowers: Direct PLUS Loan borrowers are responsible for: Repaying the loan, including interest. Informing the loan servicer of any changes in contact information. Complying with the terms and conditions of the loan. Meeting any loan forgiveness or discharge criteria for which they may qualify.

Biography Back Previous Next Amanda Guzman-Appel Vice President of Campus Life & Student Affairs Amanda Guzman Appel serves as the Vice President for Campus Life & Student Affairs at the University of the Southwest, where she oversees campus ministries, career services, food services, housing, campus security, and student life. In this role, she provides strategic leadership focused on operational efficiency and student-centered resource allocation, supporting the university’s mission and long-term growth while enhancing the overall student experience. She works collaboratively across departments to ensure programs and services meet the evolving needs of a diverse student population. Prior to joining the University of the Southwest, Amanda built her foundation in higher education through student-focused roles in campus life and operations. Throughout her career, she has led initiatives that strengthen student engagement, improve service delivery, and enhance campus life programs. Her work has supported student retention and contributed to the creation of a vibrant, supportive campus environment. She has also played a key role in institutional strategic planning and has demonstrated a consistent commitment to effective stewardship, collaboration, and organizational excellence. Amanda holds a degree in Communication from Angelo State University. Her professional approach is grounded in fostering inclusive, supportive environments that promote student development, leadership, and success. Deeply committed to advancing student success, Amanda works to align campus life programs and operational strategies with the university’s mission. She is particularly passionate about enriching the student experience and ensuring that institutional resources effectively support both students and the broader campus community. Outside of her professional role, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and traveling.

Biography Back Previous Next Steve Appel Vice President of Campus Facilities & Athletics, Head Baseball Coach New Mexico native Steve Appel has served as Vice President of Campus Facilities & Athletics at the University of the Southwest since 2022, providing strategic leadership over athletic operations and campus facility development. Since joining USW in 2014 as Head Baseball Coach, Appel has played a central role in transforming the university’s athletic department into a competitive and growth-oriented program within the Red River Athletic Conference. Appel’s leadership has driven significant progress in both performance and infrastructure. As head baseball coach, he built the Mustang program into a consistent contender, recording over 200 wins in his first seven seasons and leading the team to back-to-back RRAC Tournament appearances, including a 33-win season in 2022—one of the best in program history. That success laid the foundation for broader departmental growth and helped elevate the university’s athletic profile. At the administrative level, Appel has been instrumental in advancing major facility projects across campus. He helped secure the largest donation in university history, which funded a state-of-the-art indoor baseball facility and comprehensive renovations to Jake Williams Field. Under his leadership, enhancements have included a new playing surface, upgraded fencing, grandstand improvements, a rebuilt backstop with modern netting and padding, new bullpen areas, and a fully enclosed complex. Additional projects under his direction include the construction of a new on-campus softball field and the development of upgraded baseball facilities featuring a locker room, weight room, and restroom complex—significantly improving the student-athlete experience and recruiting capabilities. Appel’s leadership extends beyond facilities and competition. He has emphasized a culture of academic success and community engagement across the department, with teams consistently achieving strong academic performance and actively contributing to community outreach initiatives. In 2019, Appel was named Director of Athletics, expanding his oversight to all athletic programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he led a decisive relocation of USW athletic teams to Sky Ranch in Texas, allowing programs to continue training and competition during a challenging period when many institutions were unable to operate. A native of Socorro, New Mexico, Appel began his collegiate playing career at Fort Scott Community College before transferring to the University of Bridgeport, where he served as team captain, graduated Magna Cum Laude, and earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He began his coaching career at Bridgeport, rising to top assistant and pitching coach while developing one of the nation’s top pitching staffs. Through a combination of strategic vision, operational leadership, and a commitment to student-athlete development, Appel continues to shape the athletic and physical landscape of the University of the Southwest.

Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Early Childhood Education) -- Back The Alternative Licensure Program is for those seeking a teacher licensure in the state of New Mexico. All classes are 8-weeks long, and you can satisfy the internship requirement as you teach full-time as the teacher of record in a PK-12 private or public New Mexico School. The alternative licensure program is fully online. Students must already have a completed bachelor’s degree and are required to pass all state licensure examinations following completion of the licensure coursework. For additional requirements for alternative licensure, see the NMPED website: Alternative Licensure Program Opportunities – New Mexico Public Education Department (state.nm.us) APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Psychology BS Back The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology program provides students with foundational knowledge in psychology, human growth, development of the mind, and behavior. Students’ learning will center on the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology with a focus on practical applications. Upon completion, students will also be prepared to use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

Teaching & Learning (Non-Licensure) MSE Back The Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Teaching & Learning program is designed as an advancement pathway for teachers. The comprehensive curriculum builds upon teachers’ existing knowledge and experiences, focusing on the development of advanced competency in core teacher leadership areas including reflective practice, personal effectiveness, interpersonal effectiveness, professional learning and collaboration, adult learning, and technology. The program aligns with InTASC Standards and the NEA Teacher Leadership competencies. Graduates of this program will be prepared to take on instructional leadership roles in P-12 schools, including curriculum and program developers, instructional coaches and mentors, and trainers/professional learning facilitators. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

Educational Psychology EdD Back The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Psychology program challenges students to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding in theories and research in the field of educational psychology. With this degree, students can expect to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a variety of settings. Students will be better able to develop a thorough understanding of how both children and adults learn and retain knowledge needed to make contributions to the improvement of educational settings and have a direct influence on the individuals through the development of programs, methods, and tools. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Tuition Details Previous Next

Biology (Genetics) MS Back The Master of Science (MS) in Biology—Genetics program integrates disciplines ranging from molecular and cellular genetics to evolutionary genetics and genomics in microbial, plant, and animal systems. Graduates are equipped for successful careers in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic and government research laboratories, and are prepared for doctoral programs, medical school, and health-related professional programs. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

Self-Design (Non-Licensure) MSE Back The Master of Science in Education (MSE), Self-Design program provides students the opportunity to customize the program emphasis area to meet their individualized career goals. Candidates can select courses from a variety of content areas to tailor the specialization to meet their professional objectives. This emphasis is recommended for students practicing in both the private and/or public sector, as well as those in executive roles in organizational training and development. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

Biography Back Previous Next Dr. Paula Smith Executive Vice President Dr. Paula Smith serves as Executive Vice President of the University of the Southwest, providing executive leadership for the university’s financial operations while advancing key strategic initiatives during a period of institutional transition. As chief financial responsibilities transition to new leadership, Dr. Smith continues to ensure strong fiscal stewardship, operational sustainability, and long-term strategic alignment. She works closely with university leadership to position USW for continued growth, mission fulfillment, and service to the region. A licensed Certified Public Accountant with more than 30 years of executive and entrepreneurial experience, Dr. Smith began her career as an auditor with KPMG LLP in Fort Worth, Texas, after earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Tarleton State University. Following her relocation to Hobbs, she served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Watson Truck & Supply, Inc., where she led financial strategy and operational planning. She later founded and managed her own business ventures, including a financial consulting services firm and a retail shopping center, further deepening her expertise in financial management, business development, and organizational leadership. Dr. Smith holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and earned her Doctor of Business Administration from the University of the Southwest, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and institutional excellence. Before joining the executive administration, Dr. Smith served for more than a decade on the University of the Southwest Board of Trustees, providing governance oversight and strategic counsel. As a first-generation college graduate, she is deeply committed to expanding access to higher education and advancing servant leadership principles that empower students to transform their lives and communities. Beyond her professional leadership, Dr. Smith is a co-founder of MyPower, Inc., which has grown into the largest youth development program in Lea County. She has contributed to numerous community and healthcare initiatives, including the Nor-Lea Community Health Assessment Team, the Covenant Hobbs Advisory Council, and the Governor’s Task Force for COVID Safe Practices – Retail. Dr. Smith and her husband, Finn Smith, a respected business and civic leader in Hobbs, are proud parents of two adult children who were raised and educated in the Hobbs School District and have pursued careers in finance and engineering.