Accounting is the language of business and essential to understanding and navigating U.S. and multinational business environments.  Accounting summarizes, analyzes and reports financial transactions.  The financial reporting communicates the company’s operations, financial position and cash flows (via audited financial statements) to external users/stakeholders (investors, government, lenders, etc.).  In contrast, managerial reporting is used within the business organization (management and cost accounting) to make informed operational decisions.  The majors develop communication, problem-solving and interpersonal skills.  Students work with technology, receive a broad business foundation, and an intensive education in the accounting discipline.  The curriculum prepares students for the CPA license and other accounting certifications (e.g., CMA, CIA, etc.).

The Bachelor of Science in Education degree in American Sign Language/English Interpreting is a rigorous hybrid (on-campus and distance learning) program that prepares you to work as professional interpreters, ensuring communication access in a variety of settings wherever hearing and D/deaf or hard of hearing people come together.  

Economists conduct research, collect and analyze economic data, monitor and write about trends in the economy and predict future trends. They study the production and distribution of goods, resources and services within society. The economics major at Valdosta State University prepares students for a variety of careers in government and in the private sector. Economics majors may also choose to pursue graduate studies in areas such as law, business, urban planning, journalism and more.

Artists have an eye for beauty, a vision for creativity and a knack for originality and use these skills and others to create commercial or fine art pieces in various mediums. Art students at Valdosta State University build their portfolios while developing the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in art-related fields or to continue their studies at the graduate level. 

Artists have an eye for beauty, a vision for creativity and a knack for originality and use these skills and others to create commercial or fine art pieces in various mediums. Art students at Valdosta State University build their portfolios while developing the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in art-related fields or to continue their studies at the graduate level.

Art educators inspire students around the world, playing a vital role in the lives of children and adults who are interested in art. The art education program at Valdosta State University equips students with the knowledge, skills and experience to become professional art educators or to enter a variety of other professions. Students majoring in art education at Valdosta State take many of the same core classes as students in the general art program but have additional opportunities to gain invaluable teaching experience that will shape their future careers.

Biology is the study of life and living organisms. Biologists study the five principles of biology including cell theory, gene theory, homeostasis, evolution, and energy and thermodynamics. Biology students at Valdosta State University learn the basic principles of biology, along with the latest developments in the biological sciences, and develop the ability to understand and critically analyze biological issues. Students are prepared for advanced study in a variety of graduate programs and for careers in biology-related fields.

Biology is the study of life and living organisms. Biologists study the five principles of biology including cell theory, gene theory, homeostasis, evolution, and energy and thermodynamics. Biology students at Valdosta State University learn the basic principles of biology, along with the latest developments in the biological sciences, and develop the ability to understand and critically analyze biological issues. Students are prepared for advanced study in a variety of graduate programs and for careers in biology-related fields.

The Ed.S. in Coaching Pedagogy in Physical Education is a rigorous academic program of 27 The Ed.S. in Coaching Pedagogy in Physical Education is a fully online 30-hour program.

This specialist program offers the chance to continue developing knowledge and skills. Specialized advanced content is designed to address excellence in coaching and educate teachers through coaching studies. Course objectives and requirements align with the National Association for Sport and Physical Education National Standards for Sport Coaches.

Graduates meeting all criteria may be eligible for upgrade to T-6 certification in the state of Georgia or reciprocal states.

The communication degree is the degree for the 21st century. Many groups recognize its importance in both academic and business circles. Employers in particular are seeking graduates who can create and work within the organizational setting and coordinate social media. We offer the only Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in the Nation and minor programs in Health Communication and Communication.

We offer two emphases within the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Communication, Interpersonal Communication and Organizational Communication. Each of these programs offers you the opportunity to develop skills that employers are seeking and unable to find. According to National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), nine of the ten skills an employer looks for in new employees are communication related.

Your communication degree will develop your skills in each of these areas along with an understanding of intercultural communication. So, you have selected a marketable degree that will give you flexibility in what you will choose to do..

Public Relations is projected to be one of the top growth fields in the next fifteen years. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that job opportunities for Public Relations specialists will grow by 12% between now and 2022. In addition, other public relations positions will see significant growth including Public Relations Managers (13%), Event Planners (33%), Promotions Managers (12%), and Market Research Analysts (32%). The Wall Street Journal reports an estimated 18,000 new positions were emerge for social media managers and content creation specials. You can be part of this trend.

Our Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree in Public Relations is the only BFA program of its kind in the Nation and it prepares you to step into the workforce upon graduation to meet the needs of employers in Public Relations who are looking for skill and experience.

There are many strong points to our program. Among them are strong faculty and student interactions. It is not unusual as you pass through the building and see faculty talking with students in offices or just chatting in the hall. Faculty are genuinely interested in what students are doing and their progress toward graduation.

We make sure that your educational experience transcends the classroom. Many of our classes have projects that involved the campus or local community.

Communication disorders can affect people of all backgrounds and involve problems with speech, language and auditory processing. People with communication disorders may have difficulty getting their message across or receiving communication from other sources. Students in the communication disorders program at Valdosta State University are introduced to the field of speech-language pathology and develop the intervention skills necessary to help individuals with communication disorders.

Computer scientists and computer information systems professionals use computers to solve problems by programming, analyzing, designing and implementing software systems. They deal with theoretical components related to computers and to issues with hardware. Jobs in the field of computer science and computer information systems are in high demand and graduates in these disciplines are prepared for a variety of positions in the field of science, technology, engineering, education, business and more. The computer science and computer information systems majors at Valdosta State University prepare students to enter the workforce and many students in the program find part-time jobs in the field while they continue their studies.

Computer scientists and computer information systems professionals use computers to solve problems by programming, analyzing, designing and implementing software systems. They deal with theoretical components related to computers and to issues with hardware. Jobs in the field of computer science and computer information systems are in high demand and graduates in these disciplines are prepared for a variety of positions in the field of science, technology, engineering, education, business and more. The computer science and computer information systems majors at Valdosta State University prepare students to enter the workforce and many students in the program find part-time jobs in the field while they continue their studies.

Criminal Justice majors study the structure and function of the criminal justice system as it applies to adults and juveniles, focusing on criminal laws on the federal, state, and local level and how they relate to the Constitution of the United States.  Criminal justice students at Valdosta State University study various theories of criminology, learn how to apply scientific research techniques and related statistical techniques to the study of crime and examine how criminal law is applied in the various components of the criminal justice system.

Dancers use movement to tell stories, express themselves, provide entertainment and inspire others. There are numerous styles of dance, including ballet, tap, jazz and modern dance. The Valdosta State University dance program, one of only a handful of colleges in the state to offer a major in the field, fosters excellence in these areas of dance and prepares students to succeed as professional artists.

The Educational Specialist’s Degree in Educational Leadership program is a comprehensive program of study including course work and related clinical experiences leading to a Tier II Georgia certificate in Educational Leadership.  The Education Specialist’s Degree program incorporates clinical practice linking theoretical and philosophical frameworks of educational leadership to actual practice.  Through the combination of course work and performance-based activities, candidates will be able to develop the necessary competencies to become an educational leader.

The Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in Elementary Education prepares teacher candidates to teach and support students in pre-kindergarten through 5th grade in the field of elementary education. Successful completion of the program leads to a Georgia Professional Standards Commission Induction Level – T-4 certification in Elementary Education (P-5). 

English majors are good writers and effective communicators and possess the ability to process complex ideas and understand and successfully communicate with others. The English program at Valdosta State University builds upon the basic knowledge, skills and values provided by the core curriculum while preparing students for a wide range of careers and for graduate study in numerous fields.

Combining a content-rich Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a clinical-based Bachelor of Science in Education degree equips graduates with literary knowledge and writing expertise as well as extensive experience teaching in schools under the guidance of professional educators.

Exercise Physiology is the study of acute and chronic adaptations associated with physical activity. Exercise physiologists have a strong background in the scientific basis underlying exercise-induced physiological responses. Applied exercise physiologists manage programs geared toward healthy individuals and those with controlled diseases, while clinical exercise physiologists work with physicians in clinical settings to apply physical activity and modify behaviors based on proven benefits.

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology (B.S.E.P) degree at Valdosta State University prepares students for three broad career paths (1) an exercise physiologist (2) as a strength and conditioning professional and (3) as a pre-request for advanced schooling including those in the health care industry.

Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists develop fitness and exercise programs that help patients prevent or recover from chronic diseases (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, cancer) and improve cardiovascular function, body composition, strength, and flexibility.  Some physiologists work closely with primary care physicians, who may prescribe exercise regimens for their patients and refer them to exercise physiologists. 

Strength and Conditioning Specialist

Exercise physiologists are also employed as strength and conditioning coaches to help athletes improve their performance or skill in a sport and to prevent and rehabilitate injuries.  Opportunities exist working with high school, collegiate and professional athletes and are employed in high schools, colleges, fitness centers, physical therapy clinics and with professional sports teams.

Pre-Professional Health Programs

Many graduates of exercise physiology apply to advanced schooling including those in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, medicine, and chiropractic or continue at the MS or PhD level in exercise physiology or a related area.  The VSU B.S.E.P degree allows for 23 hours (6 to 8 courses) of electives in math, science and psychology to help students obtain the pre-request courses for application to graduate school. A degree in exercise physiology provides transferable knowledge, skills and abilities into many health care professions and advanced degree programs.  Of all applicants accepted into physical therapy school a degree in exercise physiology is the highest of any other major (Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service).

To learn more about this field and career of exercise physiology view the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

View the B.S. Exercise Physiology Check List.  

View the B.S. Exercise Physiology Academic Map.

View the B.S. Exercise Physiology Jr/Sr courses.

The field of finance focuses on how businesses, organizations, government entities and individuals raise, spend and invest capital and examines the way in which financial markets function. Finance majors at Valdosta State University take a variety of specialized courses and acquire the skills necessary to become financial decision makers and to efficiently and effectively obtain and manage capital.

French is the second most spoken language in the European Union and the seventh worldwide with more than 230 million native and non-native speakers.  It is the official language of 29 countries throughout the globe. College graduates who are proficient in French and who have a deep understanding of the richness and diversity of French and Francophone cultures have many advantages in the workforce and can pursue careers in education, humanities-related fields, fashion, and business, to name just a few.

The Bachelor of Business Administration degree in General Business is for students who desire a holistic understanding of all business areas rather than a specialized area of business, i.e., accounting, business management, computer information systems, economics, entrepreneurship, finance, leadership, and marketing.

The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree program prepares students for the healthcare industry, currently one of the strongest employment sectors nationally. The program helps students to identify talents and interests in the field that can be developed within the program, leading to careers in fields such as medical assistance, healthcare informatics, marketing and public relations, public health, health education, and environmental health. The degree program can also lead to graduate level study in healthcare fields such as anesthesiologist assistant, athletic training, dentistry, exercise physiology, medicine, nursing (as a second degree), occupational therapy, optometry, physical therapy, and physician assistant. Specific pre-requisites are required depending on the specific healthcare field chosen.

History is the study of past events, people and eras. The discipline involves research, reading and writing, with an emphasis on interpreting and analyzing information. The history program at Valdosta State University is a good choice for students interested in the discipline who want to broaden their educational horizons and prepare for a number of careers or graduate school.

Combining a content-rich Bachelor of Arts degree in History with a clinical-based Bachelor of Science in Education degree equips graduates with historical knowledge and analytical expertise as well as extensive experience teaching in schools under the guidance of professional educators.

The Ed.S. in Instructional Technology with a P-12 Technology Applications concentration offers an exciting and practical way to enhance the learning environment of the students with whom you work. 

The program is

• Delivered completely online,
• Takes only 30 semester-hours, and
• Offers three guided elective courses, which you choose in conjunction with advisors. Elective concentrations include online teaching, multimedia, technology leadership, adult education, and more.
  

During the program, ongoing application of the instructional design knowledge you gain, and implementation of the new technology tools you learn will be central. Successful completion of the degree and associated GACE exam leads to a GaPSC service certificate at level 6 in Instructional Technology. Aligned to ISTE Coach’s NETS and the GA PSC Instructional Technology standards, our up-to-date program provides valuable opportunities for students to prepare to be technology coaches, coordinators, or instructional technologists in public schools. One recent graduate commented, “I thrive on feedback. I seek it out, and the design of this program is wonderful for that. I have learned so much from working with my classmates in these classes. I also intend to continue my relationships with these people.”

The Ed.S. in Instructional Technology that leads to the P-12 Instructional Technology Certification can result in an add-on School Library Media Certification is a 36-hour program of study that helps prepare you to successfully pass the Media Specialist GACE. It is an inventive program of study that qualifies students to take the Media Specialist GACE and apply for certification in School Library Media at the level of certification they bring to the program. A level upgrade to Level 6 is, however a potential result of successful completion of the program because of the instructional technology core of the program that leads to certification in Instructional Technology. Coursework offers continuous opportunities to apply new technology tools in the learning environment in which you work, while at the same time developing the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective School Library Media Specialist. Successful completion of the degree and Instructional Technology GACE makes graduates eligible for a Level 6 service certificate in IT. Come join the online learners at Valdosta State and take advantage of the qualified team of instructors who are committed to making your learning experience a practical and valuable one.

The Ed.S. in Instructional Technology with a Technology Applications concentration for non-P12-school-based professionals offers an interactive, online educational model designed to work around busy schedules in a variety of fields. Our commitment to guide students to practically apply the tenets of IT theories, to integrate research and practice in the field, and to develop competency in project management, instructional design, and technology tools opens the opportunity for graduates to be technology coaches, coordinators, or instructional technologists in a variety of contexts: business, industry, government, the military, health fields, and higher education. Join us online at VSU and be among those who can say, “The skills I developed in evaluating technology in this program are utilized continuously in my career. I am seen as a leader in the use of our technology resources.”

Interdisciplinary Studies is a program which allows you, the student, to be in control of designing your educational program. The degree, a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, is comprised of two or three academic Areas of Emphasis (21 credit hours each or 15 credit hours each, respectively). You may choose from any discipline offered as a major or minor at VSU. Within each Area of Emphasis, you may use a maximum of one lower level course (1000-2000); the remaining courses must be upper level (3000-4000) and all must have a grade of "C" or better.

The field of interior design is about connecting people to the spaces where they live, work, learn and play. Interior designers address the visual, technical and aesthetic aspects of inhabited spaces, integrating art and design concepts, utilizing space analysis and planning, and employing their knowledge of materials, furnishings and construction to produce finished interior environments that serve the specific needs of their clients.

Students in the Interior Design program at Valdosta State University learn in a stimulating and collaborative environment and are prepared for careers as interior designers.

The field of management involves overseeing people, businesses and organizations with the goal of ensuring that resources are used properly and efficiently. Managers work in a variety of fields including retail, industry, hospitality, production, human resources and more and are essential figures in the success of these organizations. Many managers go on to successfully open and operate their own businesses.

Marketing professionals are responsible for promoting products and services, while keeping in mind the needs and desires of their customers. All types of organizations need to market themselves and their products and services, and as a result, opportunities abound for marketing majors. Students in the Valdosta State University marketing program develop a number of skills and become experts in the areas of problem solving, planning and forecasting, research and analysis, and persuasion. Marketing majors also hone their people skills and become effective communicators.

Mass media refers to all forms of communication that reach large audiences. Students who study mass media at Valdosta State University are exposed to a variety of disciplines within the field of mass media, including broadcast journalism, digital journalism, and video, audio and documentary production. Students with degrees in mass media are in high demand and enjoy successful careers in news, radio, television, sports broadcasting, corporate production and more.

Students who complete the major in Middle Grades will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree. VSU’s Middle Grades program is approved by Georgia’s Professional Standards Commission, Georgia’s teacher certifying agency. All Middle Grades majors complete the core curriculum, Areas A-F, with area F being specific to Middle Grades concentration areas. Twenty-four hours in the major are also dedicated to the chosen concentration areas. Upon acceptance into teacher education, students have major specific courses. Upon graduation, students are Middle Grades certification eligible.

Music is the art of combining vocal or instrumental sound to evoke emotion, produce beauty of form, or create harmony, melody or rhythm. Humans have been making music since the beginning of time, and music is present in some form in every culture and society around the world. The music department at Valdosta State University prepares students to have lifelong careers as musicians, music educators or professionals who work in the field of music.

The Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Music (Education Track) does not lead to teacher certification. Students who complete the degree program have the opportunity to apply to the Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Music Education. Successful completion of the MAT will enable them to apply for initial teacher certification in Music Education.

The Master of Music Performance (M.M.P.) program at Valdosta State University is a rigorous, performance-based, graduate degree that seeks to train student-musicians into professionals. Marked by individualized attention from its renowned and dedicated faculty, students gain experiences in performance, scholarship, and pedagogy through intentional mentorship aimed at fostering the holistic development of each musician.

Nurses play a crucial role in the medical system, treating and caring for ill patients, preventing illnesses, assisting doctors, and promoting health and well being. Nurses work in a variety of settings including hospitals, doctors’ offices, clinics, schools and other environments in which medical care is rendered. Students in the Valdosta State University nursing program develop critical thinking skills, gain an appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives, and learn how to address policy disputes and social problems related to health care. Upon graduation, Valdosta State nursing students assume leadership in the fields of nursing and health care, making a positive impact on their communities and touching people’s lives every day. 

Professionals in the field of office administration and technology are responsible for financial planning, billing, record keeping, personnel, physical distribution and logistics within an organization. They also plan work assignments for staff, supervise staff, request new office equipment and make repairs on existing equipment. The office administration and technology program at Valdosta State University prepares students for administrative, supportive and supervisory positions in business or industrial settings, professional offices, public institutions, and government agencies.

Organizational leadership involves the practices, theories, issues and ramifications of leading an organization or business. Students in the organizational leadership program at Valdosta State University learn about management, administration, human resources and technology related to today’s complex organizations in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. The online, multidisciplinary program is ideal for working professionals, members of the military, transfer students and those seeking degree completion, along with traditional students who wish to complete a degree online.

Political science is the study of systems of government, politics, political behavior and public policies. Political scientists study the stages of government, the process by which political decisions are made and various matters that affect government behavior. Political science students at Valdosta State University focus on subfields of the discipline, including the American government and politics, comparative government and politics, international relations, political theory, public law and public administration.

Psychologists study the human mind, exploring a variety of interesting questions that explain human behavior and responses. Psychologists do research and conduct studies, make observations, and help others understand and improve or modify their behaviors. Students in the psychology program at Valdosta State University focus on areas including learning, cognition, intelligence, motivation, emotion, perception, personality, mental disorders and the ways in which individual preferences are inherited or shaped by environment

Psychologists study the human mind, exploring a variety of interesting questions that explain human behavior and responses. Psychologists do research and conduct studies, make observations, and help others understand and improve or modify their behaviors. Students in the psychology program at Valdosta State University focus on areas including learning, cognition, intelligence, motivation, emotion, perception, personality, mental disorders and the ways in which individual preferences are inherited or shaped by the environment.

The mission of the Valdosta State University School Counseling Program is to educate professionals who will be leaders in the school environment and who accept responsibility for removing barriers and offering equal access to services for all students.  The main emphasis of the School Counseling Program is to train school counselors who function as leaders utilizing data, advocacy, collaboration and consultation to provide academic, career, and personal/social counseling and services to assist students from diverse backgrounds in achieving high levels of academic success.

Effective for students starting the EdS in School Counseling in Fall 2021, the degree requires 30 hours. Your advisor will provide you with a program of study that reflects this change.

The structure of the Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in Secondary Education is to prepare teacher candidates to teach and support students in a specific content discipline in grades 6-12. Successful completion of the program leads to a Georgia Professional Standards Commission Induction Level – T-4 certification.

Spanish, a Romance language, is the primary language of Spain, Mexico, and most countries in Central and South America and the Caribbean. It is the second most spoken language worldwide as well as in the United States. Fluency in Spanish is an invaluable tool for those living and working in the United States and abroad. Valdosta State University students who are proficient in Spanish have numerous advantages in the workforce and can pursue a number of careers in areas such as teaching, translation and interpretation, health care, social services, law and law enforcement, and more.

The Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Special Education is designed for practicing special educators who hold a master's degree in special education (or related field such as speech language pathology, deaf education, vocational rehabilitation, or adapted physical education) who wish to advance their professional skills in special education. Information and skills in special education acquired and developed at the undergraduate and master’s level in special education are specifically designed for and focused on the provision of services. The Ed.S., however, focuses on knowledge and skills necessary for leadership roles and advanced teaching positions in special education.

The Teacher Leadership Ed.S. Degree is an advanced degree that prepares educators to meet the GaPSC Teacher Leadership standards providing a foundation for effective collaboration with students, parents, and colleagues. By completing this online degree and passing the appropriate Georgia content assessment, candidates will be eligible for the new Teacher Leadership (level 6) certification

Practitioners of theatre arts, whether they perform on stage or work behind the scenes, bring stories to life, entertain and inspire. The theatre arts major at Valdosta State University is an all-encompassing program that embraces various aspects of theatre, including theatre performance, theatre production, musical theatre, and theatre management. The program is designed to develop the skills, craft and imagination of students, in addition to providing them with a strong background in the history of theatre. For information about our productions and how to get tickets, admission and scholarship auditions, fundraisers, and even more about VSU Theatre, please visit our BFA Theatre website.

The B.F.A. with a major in Theatre prepares students for a broad range of opportunities including performance, teaching, arts administration, and many non-arts based careers such as sales, training and development, and management.

The Theatre program at VSU offers numerous productions throughout the year, providing students with significant performance experience. Theatre graduates learn a host of life skills including collaboration, working to deadlines, self-discipline, patience, perseverance, analytical skills, and critical thinking.

Valdosta State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre.

The B.F.A. with a major in Theatre prepares students for a broad range of opportunities including performance, teaching, arts administration, and many non-arts based careers such as sales, training and development, and management. The Theatre program at VSU offers numerous productions throughout the year, providing students with significant performance experience. Theatre graduates learn a host of life skills including collaboration, working to deadlines, self-discipline, patience, perseverance, analytical skills, and critical thinking.

Valdosta State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre.

The B.F.A. with a major in Theatre prepares students for a broad range of opportunities including performance, teaching, arts administration, and many non-arts based careers such as sales, training and development, and management. The Theatre program at VSU offers numerous productions throughout the year, providing students with significant performance experience. Theatre graduates learn a host of life skills including collaboration, working to deadlines, self-discipline, patience, perseverance, analytical skills, and critical thinking.

Valdosta State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre.

The B.F.A. with a major in Theatre prepares students for a broad range of opportunities including performance, teaching, arts administration, and many non-arts based careers such as sales, training and development, and management. The Theatre program at VSU offers numerous productions throughout the year, providing students with significant performance experience. Theatre graduates learn a host of life skills including collaboration, working to deadlines, self-discipline, patience, perseverance, analytical skills, and critical thinking.

Valdosta State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre.

Workforce educators teach students of all ages the skills necessary to succeed in technical fields and other areas that require specific knowledge. Most students seeking a degree in workforce education and development have extensive career experience in their chosen fields. Students in the workforce education and development program at Valdosta State University can pursue one of four options in their quest to become professional educators: Workforce Training and Development, Secondary Career-Technical Education, Technical Leadership, or Human Resource Development.