Major Descriptions & Plans

ECU offers a variety of undergraduate majors. Below you will find a list of the majors offered with a brief description and same four-year plan for each.

A B C D E F G H I M N P R S T U

A

Accounting

The Accounting (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) degree provides a broad overview of significant issues in management accounting and a detailed examination of internal accounting issues affecting multiple entity types. The courses include an array of topics needed for an accounting manager in a dynamic environment. The BSBA degree is ultimately designed to prepare students for careers in corporate accounting, governmental accounting, and internal auditing. This degree does not meet the requirements for professional certification as a CPA in North Carolina.

Sample Four-Year Plan

African and African American Studies

African and African American Studies (Bachelor of Arts) is an interdisciplinary degree that provides students with a broad perspective on the values of racial and ethnic diversity. This major includes sociopolitical, religious, and historical perspectives related to African peoples, both in Africa as well as throughout the complex and diverse diasporic communities of North America and the Atlantic world. The program draws from a broad range of disciplines in the social sciences, humanities, and fine arts.

Sample Four-Year Plan

 

Anthropology

Anthropology (Bachelor of Arts) is the study of people and their cultures, both in the past and present, and consists of three subfields: biological anthropology, archaeology, and cultural anthropology. Biological anthropologists discover when and why humans appeared on earth, analyze how they have changed biologically over time, and apply their research methods to forensic analyses. Archaeologists excavate the remains of past societies to discover how people lived in the past and work to conserve artifacts and display them in museum settings. Cultural anthropologists use participant observation to immerse themselves in other cultures to understand why people think and behave differently.

Anthropology Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

Applied Atmospheric Science

The Applied Atmospheric Science (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students to apply knowledge of weather and climate, meteorological observations, and forecasting to the societal challenges of natural hazards and climate change. Students learn the latest geospatial technologies, such as geographic information systems and cartographic design, and will apply them to understanding coastal hazards, severe weather, and hydrology. The Geography Department maintains two state-­‐of-­‐the-­‐art weather stations to monitor weather and climate variables in the heart of the city and at a remote field site.

Applied Atmospheric Science Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

Art

The Art (Bachelor of Fine Arts) degree requires an area of specialty (a concentration) in Animation Interactive Design, Cinematic Arts Media Production, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Illustration, Metal Design, Painting and Drawing, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, or Textiles.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Art Education

The Art Education (Bachelor of Fine Arts) curriculum is designed to prepare students for certification in art at the elementary through secondary school levels and to develop their competence both as creative artists and as teachers. It is also geared to develop understanding of goals, content, motivational techniques, use of materials, evaluative processes, and procedures involved in art instruction at pupils’ various developmental levels.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Art Histories

The Art Histories (BA in Multidisciplinary Studies) program is dedicated to helping students achieve a historical understanding of the visual arts from various perspectives that include formal, iconographic, critical, and social analysis.

Sample Four-Year Plan

B

Biochemistry

The Biochemistry degree is designed for students seeking careers in a variety of fields including health professions, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and research.  The curriculum has a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, calculus and physics.  We offer two concentrations one in chemistry that focuses on the structural aspects and one in biology that emphasizes the molecular aspects of biochemistry.  Students are strongly encouraged to carry out undergraduate research projects in biochemistry for which they can earn course credit.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Biology

The Biology department offers both a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degree.  The bachelor of science degree is designed for students seeking career opportunities in health, industry, business, academia, research, or governmental and non-governmental organizations; or advancement into professional and graduate programs.   The bachelor of art degree prepare students for careers in education, industry, public health, and environmental monitoring.  Both degrees provide a broad-based biological background with increased hand-on experience.   The bachelor of art degree includes foreign language proficiency and enough flexibility for students to tailor their curriculum in key areas to facilitate career development in the STEM field.

Sample Four-Year Plan

 

Biology (BA)

 

Biology (BS)
Ecology & Evolution
General Biology
Molecular & Cell Biology
Molecular & Cell: Pre-Vet
BS in Biology with Chemistry
BS in Biology with BS in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

Birth Through Kindergarten Teacher Education

The Birth Through Kindergarten Teacher Education (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares individuals to work with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergartners with and without disabilities, including those at risk, and their families. In addition to working in public school classrooms, graduates may find employment in early intervention programs, child care and education centers, residential placement centers, and other child and family settings. Upon completion of program requirements, majors are eligible to apply for a North Carolina teaching license. Students take courses in child development, special education, family relations, reading, professional education, and general studies.

Sample Four-Year Plan

C

Chemistry

The Chemistry (Bachelor of Arts) degree provides a flexible major designed to provide the student with a broad education in chemistry appropriate for further study in a wide range of fields, such as business, medicine, pharmacy, and law. The curriculum, in conjunction with two semesters of laboratory-­‐based biology courses, satisfies the course requirements for application to most US medical schools. The BA chemistry degree, compared to the BS degree, requires fewer chemistry and math courses, as well as a lower level of physics, but adds the University requirement of four levels of foreign language.

The Chemistry (Bachelor of Science) degree equips students with skills that enhance their marketability to a wide variety of employers in technology and science and are also well positioned to apply for graduate study in chemistry and related fields. The BS chemistry degree differs from the BA degree in that it is more rigorous; more courses are required not only in chemistry, but in mathematics and physics as well. The BS degree in chemistry is the appropriate program for students considering advanced degree programs in chemistry, biochemistry, and other related fields or a professional career in chemistry. Additionally, it is an appropriately challenging major for competitive students interested in pharmacy, dental and medical school.

Chemistry Major Map

Sample Four-Year Plan

Chemistry BA

Success in Chemistry is dependent upon math skills. Chemistry placement is determined by Math scores on the ACT or SAT, or an appropriate score on our math placement test.

Chemistry BA – Pre-Pharmacy accelerated track (degree in 3 years)
Chemistry BS

Success in Chemistry is dependent upon math skills. Chemistry placement is determined by Math scores on the ACT or SAT, or an appropriate score on our math placement test.

Child Life

Child Life Specialists (CLS) provide evidence-based, developmentally appropriate interventions including therapeutic play, preparation and educations that reduce fear, anxiety, and pain for children and adolescents (www.childlife.org). Coursework in this competitive program prepares student for working with children and families in healthcare and stressful circumstances by learning through lectures, labs, and practicum experience. Students complete practicums within a healthcare setting and within the Nancy W. Darden Child Development Center. A final semester long internship under a certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) is also required.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Classics and Classical Civilization

Classics is the study of the civilizations of ancient Greece, Rome and the ancient Mediterranean, which begins with their languages – ancient Greek and classical Latin.  Students may study the entire civilizations through coursework on literature, history, philosophy, art, architecture, anthropology and archeology, mythology and religion, and material culture.  ECU offers a Classical Studies minor, and two major concentrations in the BA in Multidisciplinary Studies: Classics (with greater emphasis on the languages) and Classical Civilization.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Clinical Laboratory Science

The BS degree in Clinical Laboratory Science is designed to prepare competent Clinical Laboratory Scientists (also called Medical Technologists) to perform lab tests on patient samples in all major areas of the modern medical laboratory including hematology, immunohematology, serology, clinical microbiology (includes mycology and parasitology), clinical chemistry, and urinalysis. Clinical Lab students also complete course work in management, research, and education as related to functioning as a clinical laboratory manager, educator, and researcher.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Communication

The Communication (Bachelor of Science) degree offers concentrations in journalism, media studies, interpersonal/organizational communication, and public relations. The program focuses on message creation and interpretation in a variety of contexts including interpersonal, organizational, cultural, and mediated. Graduates are prepared to work for business, government, and community agencies in an array of positions such as journalists, news analysts, spokespeople, public relations specialists, human resources professionals, and account executives.

The Interpersonal/Organizational Concentration emphasis represents a degree focused on an analysis of human and social interaction and message construction for organizational and professional settings. This area is knowledge-­‐based and practically oriented to prepare students for future job placement where human communication skills are paramount to organizational goals.

The Journalism Concentration streams students through courses aimed at equipping them with the cross-­‐platform skills they need to succeed in today’s converged journalism. The curriculum allows students to specialize in print or broadcast or Internet-­‐Web journalism and to acquire those additional, cross-­‐platform competencies that they feel they need to reach the career goals they set for themselves.

The Media Studies Concentration critically examines mass and mediated forms of communication. More specifically, this curriculum focuses on the analysis and criticism of media institutions and media texts, how people experience and understand media content, and the roles of media in producing and transforming culture.

The Public Relations Concentration is designed for students interested in developing strategic messages, managing communication campaigns and/or practicing communication involving complex social organizations. The Public Relations concentration will illustrate theoretical and applied skills for the public relations professional. Additionally, students will be provided a more focused curriculum which includes Interpersonal, Media, and Diversity/Culture courses which are most needed for the public relations professional.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Interpersonal/Organizational Communication
Journalism
Media Studies
Public Relations

Community and Regional Planning

The Community and Regional Planning  degree is designed to prepare students for careers in community, regional, environmental, and coastal planning. Students will complete core courses in theory, legislation, and techniques, as well as acquire computer skills in the application of geographic information systems (GIS), statistics, quantitative analysis, and design in planning. Two senior capstone classes include a Studio and a Practicum. Students will complete one of two emphases: “Community Planning and Development” or “Coastal Planning and Development.” A minor or two planning-related concentrations are also expected. Students can earn academic credits for internships

Sample Four-Year Plan

Computer Science

The Computer Science (Bachelor of Science) degree program is a comprehensive program that prepares students for either professional employment in the field or for further studies in graduate school. It provides a more comprehensive background in mathematics, science, and underlying principles of computer science. The department maintains an active dialog with its industrial supporters and alumni through advisory boards and by other means in order to make sure that all of its programs remain relevant and current.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Construction Management

The Construction Management (Bachelor of Science) program prepares graduates for professional careers in the construction industry, creates future leaders for the industry, builds construction knowledge in service to the profession and the public, and promotes a sustainable environment for the safety and welfare of all people. Construction management is a diverse discipline focused on the delivery of projects that compose the world’s built environment. The major has three concentrations: general commercial construction, residential construction, and infrastructure construction. Faculty represent diverse backgrounds in the design, engineering, and construction fields and provide students with a focused learning environment of real-­‐world construction practices and solutions to construction problems. The degree is one of only 65 American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) accredited programs in the country and the first accredited program in North Carolina.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Criminal Justice and Criminology

The Criminal Justice degree program provides students with the critical thinking skills that prepare them to become the next generation of criminal justice leaders. Upon graduation, our students accept positions at the federal, state, or local levels in law enforcement, forensic, consumer reporting, court, correction, private security, or juvenile fields. Our graduates can be found in criminal justice or law positions in government agencies, corporations, or private offices around the world. They work as federal special agents, police officers, forensic specialists, intelligence analysts, game wardens, judges, attorneys, probation officers, correctional administrators, juvenile specialists, background investigators, and more. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship with a criminal justice organization. This experiential learning opportunity enables students to bridge theoretical classroom knowledge with real-world applications. There are numerous internship opportunities, including victim advocacy organizations, legal firms, crime scene investigation units, county sheriff’s offices, criminal courts, juvenile justice programs, consumer background reporting firms, research firms, and more.

 

Sample Four-Year Plan

 

Criminal Justice (BS) and Chemistry (BA) Double-Major
Forensic Science Crime Lab Career Pathway

The Department of Criminal Justice, in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry, has prepared a four-year degree plan for students interested in future forensic science laboratory career opportunities. The Minor in Forensic Science helps prepares students for a career in crime scene investigation or forensic impressions and markings. The BS in Criminal Justice/BA in Chemistry/Minor in Forensic Science degree plan prepares students for laboratory careers like drug chemist, clandestine laboratory responder, and toxicologist.

Sample Four-Year Plan

 

D

Dance

The Dance Performance (Bachelor of Fine Arts) program gives equal emphasis to the core techniques of ballet, modern, and jazz, ensuring that dance majors reach the advanced level in each. Upperclassmen may concentrate in one area while completing their other technique requirements or may continue to balance their training in all three core techniques. In addition to taking technique classes, dance majors take courses in improvisation, composition, choreography, dance history, and theatre. The major prepares students to dance professionally or to teach in a private studio. Auditions are required prior to entrance into the program.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Design

The Design (Bachelor of Science) program emphasizes application of state of the art software, digitizing, and product realization/development equipment. In addition, there are many opportunities to gain work experience such as part-­‐time and temporary jobs and co-­‐op or internship positions. The degree offers two concentration areas:

The Architectural Technology Concentration prepares individuals to assist architects in developing plans and related documentation and performing architectural office services. It includes instruction in architectural drafting, computer assisted drafting and design, construction methods and materials, environmental systems, building codes and standards, structural principles, cost estimation, planning documentation, visual communication skills, display production, and architectural office management.

The Mechanical Technology Concentration includes a hands-­‐on design curriculum that prepares graduates for careers in the application of machine and mechanical system principles to the development of automated systems and equipment. It includes instruction in principles of computer assisted design, mechanics, applications to specific engineering systems, design testing procedures, prototype and operational testing and inspection procedures, manufacturing system-­testing procedures, test equipment operation and maintenance, and report preparation.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Architectural Technology BS
Mechanical Technology BS

E

Economics

The Economics (Bachelor of Arts) degree provides graduates the foundation for understanding the forces that cause growth in living standards, recessions, and inflation. The major will provide a solid liberal arts degree that will help students in the ever-­‐changing career world. Graduates have found employment in banking, brokerage, business management, and government agencies. Economics also provides a foundation for further graduate training in professional and graduate schools.

The Economics (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares graduates with foundational social forces that will shape your life and career: market fluctuations, financial crises, and trends in employment and wages. The program explores the costs and benefits of public policies (e.g., health or environmental). The BS degree offers two options: an applied concentration for a wide range of careers in business or government, and a quantitative option that prepares you for graduate study in economics or finance.

Economics Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

Applied Economics BS

Economics BA
Economics BS
Quantitative BS

Elementary Education

The Elementary Education (Bachelor of Science) prepares students to work with children in grades K–6 in public schools. The course work of the program, including methods courses in all academic areas, involves a developmental approach in preparing students for the teaching profession. Elementary majors observe and assist in the public schools from the beginning of the program progressing through tutorial opportunities, culminating with an outstanding yearlong internship.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Engineering

The Engineering (Bachelor of Science) program produces graduates with unique skills that span several engineering disciplines with a focus on interdisciplinary problem solving and analysis. The program is composed of a general engineering core and five concentrations that build on this foundation. The concentrations cover emerging and fast-­growing engineering fields and assure engineering career skills that are demanded by the global economy. Graduates pursue a range of career options in consulting, government, health care, banking and finance, insurance, government, tourism, service, transportation, agriculture, and retail.

The Biomedical Engineering Concentration focuses on improving medical systems to enhance human health. This concentration includes disciplines such as medical instrumentation, imaging, biological materials, and modeling in areas such as biomechanics and the physiological systems of the body. Graduates are prepared for broad career options, including graduate study, medical school, medical research, and in clinical, sales, and engineering positions in industry.

The Bioprocess Engineering Concentration represents one of the fastest growing segments of the economy. Bioprocess engineers design and develop equipment, methods, and systems for the efficient and environmentally sound manufacturing and processing of medicines, vaccines, organic fuel technology, food products, diagnostics, and biologically-based products. Bioprocess engineers work for biopharmaceutical companies in various capacities (manufacturing, process, validation, and automation engineers), consulting firms for pharmaceutical companies, breweries, vineyards, ethanol and biodiesel production companies, industrial enzyme companies, and in many other areas where biological agents are involved in large scale production.

The Electrical Engineering Concentration is a broad field involved in projects of varying scale. Electrical engineers possess the skills to work on very large scale engineering projects such as high power transformers, generators, and electrical distribution grids and very small scale products such as nanoscale transistors. Electrical engineers are involved in the design of any electronic device from music players, digital cameras, and computers to robots, automotive technology, and manufacturing equipment. Electrical engineering is also vital to communication technology such as cell phones, radios, computer networks, and satellites.

The Environmental Engineering Concentration focuses on developing sustainable solutions to environmental problems using principles from hydrology, chemistry, biology, and other fields.  Environmental engineers are involved in the design of systems related to water quality analysis and treatment, air pollution control, stormwater management, and groundwater hydrology.  Graduates are prepared for careers as professional engineers in civil and environmental consulting firms, state and federal environmental agencies, and industrial processing and manufacturing companies.

The Industrial and Systems Engineering Concentration is the perfect blend of technical engineering skills and people orientation. Industrial and systems engineers focus on the design, analysis, optimization, and operation of systems ranging from a single piece of equipment to large business, social, and environmental systems. Industrial and systems engineering addresses overall system performance and productivity, responsiveness to customers’ needs, and the quality of the products or services produced by the enterprise. This field is not just about manufacturing but also encompasses service industries such as government, health care, transportation, logistics, and consulting.

The Mechanical Engineering Concentration is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers have skills to support design and improvement of a wide range of products from supersonic aircraft to toasters and bicycles. Mechanical engineers may specialize in areas like combustion, thermal systems, machine design, and robotics or cross over into advanced technologies such as artificial limbs and nanotechnology. Career opportunities for mechanical engineers exist in a wide range of business and industry including manufacturing, consulting engineering, product design, and research.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Biomedical BS
Bioprocess BS
Electrical BS
Environmental BS
Industrial BS
Mechanical BS

English

The English (Bachelor of Arts) degree provides students a solid foundation of reading, writing, and analytical skills. Students have the flexibility to choose courses from among the range of fields that make up English today: literature, creative writing, multicultural and transnational literature, technical and professional communication, linguistics, rhetoric and composition, folklore, and film studies. Students become strong writers and critical thinkers with the skills to succeed in many different career fields. Graduates have gone on to careers in government, business, law, the non-­profit sector, healthcare, journalism, library science, higher education, teaching, and social work, among many others.

English Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

English Education

The English Education (Bachelor of Science) program prepares students to teach secondary English studies. The program involves extensive course work in the study of rhetoric and composition, film, language, and literature, both canonical and multicultural, and in the study and investigation of best practices for teaching all facets of language arts in the contemporary high school. The program prepares graduates by employing a developmental approach, which begins with tutorial opportunities and culminates with an outstanding yearlong internship.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Entrepreneurship

Many industries have created a demand for entrepreneurs who can provide dynamic leadership in creating new enterprises. Equally important is the need for individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit to infuse innovation into existing industries.

Through a unique curriculum and co-curricular partnerships in industry, the Miller School of Entrepreneurship serves as a regional hub that empowers students with the skills and experience to help transform their communities.

If you intend to start your own business or buy an existing business, enter a family business, or pursue an entrepreneurial career in any size organization you should consider the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship degree.

This program emphasizes experiential learning and provides you the opportunity to learn how to launch your own business in the capstone course. Additionally, you are expected to choose 18 hours from an existing minor or certificate outside the Miller School of Entrepreneurship, or design a specialized area of focus. These courses are selected by you and approved by the Miller School director based on entrepreneurial interest.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Environmental Health Sciences

The Environmental Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) degree program prepares graduates for professional careers as entry-­level environmental health specialists or industrial hygienists in industry, academic institutions, consulting firms, and health regulatory agencies at the local, state, or federal level. Employment opportunities include areas such as air pollution control, food protection, water quality, toxicology, environmental epidemiology, waste treatment, control of disease-­transmitting insects, and counterterrorism.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Environmental Studies

The Environmental Studies (Bachelor of Science) is a concentration in the Multidisciplinary Studies program. It is one of the fastest growing majors in the US. This concentration is provides students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues across multiple disciplines and perspectives. Students who successfully complete this concentration will provide students with the skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of high-paying, in-demand careers to address the world’s most pressing environmental concerns. The ultimate career path depends greatly on individual student’s interests, skills, and values.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Exercise Physiology

The Exercise Physiology (Bachelor of Science) program prepares graduates for careers in applied or clinical exercise physiology, industrial academic settings, and for postgraduate work in exercise physiology, medicine, physical therapy, and other allied health fields. Exercise physiologists develop fitness and exercise programs that help patients recover from chronic diseases and improve cardiovascular function, body composition, and flexibility. The degree covers the study of exercise and its important role in health maintenance and disease prevention.

Sample Four-Year Plan

F

Family and Community Services

The Family and Community Services (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students to work in a variety of community agencies and organizations that provide assistance and educational opportunities to families in a wide variety of child and family settings. The major has two options: family studies or child development/early intervention. Graduates find employment in family life education, youth development programs, adoption agencies, early intervention programs, Head Start programs, juvenile services, mediation services, and community based service agencies.

The Early Intervention Option prepares students interested in working with infant, toddlers, and preschool children in a variety of early childhood programs. After completing the degree requirements, students may apply for the North Carolina Infant, Toddler, Family Associate Certificate through the Early Intervention Board at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

The Family Studies Option prepares students to work in family life education or who wish to work directly with families. After completing their degree in the family studies track, students have met the academic qualifications to apply for certification as a Certified Family Life Educator through the National Council on Family Relations.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Family and Consumer Sciences Education

The Family and Consumer Sciences Education (Bachelor of Science) program prepares individuals to teach in middle grades and high schools; to work with the Cooperative Extension Service or other educational agencies such as vocational education, workforce development programs, and career services; and to prepare graduate study. Students gain technical and career skills in work-­‐based efficiency with six career areas: community and family services, culinary arts and hospitality, early childhood education, family and consumer sciences advanced study, food science, human services work development, and interior design services. Students also learn about workplace applications and leadership skills necessary to advise student organizations. Upon completion of program requirements, majors are eligible to apply for a North Carolina teaching license.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Fashion Merchandising

The Fashion Merchandising (Bachelor of Science) degree program includes study in merchandising strategies, consumer behavior, quality analysis, buying and sourcing, visual merchandising, textiles, global economics, merchandising research, planning and developing product lines. The global nature of the apparel and interiors industries means you will have many opportunities for travel nationally and abroad. This dynamic merchandising program leads to exciting careers in the apparel or interiors industries.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Finance

The Finance (Bachelor of Science Business in Administration) program allows students to explore areas such as managerial finance, banking, financial services, business law, and real estate. Students will develop applied and theoretical knowledge as the basis for successful financial management of both large and small organizations and for providing financial services to both individuals and institutions. The Finance Department offers concentrations in Finance and Risk Management and Insurance.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Finance
Risk Management and Insurance

French

The French concentration (Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages and Literatures) develops proficiency in the French language and Francophone cultures of the world. Students investigate, analyze and assess the global significance of history, the arts, business, medicine, fashion, and more, in French, from a Francophone perspective. Whether as a standalone major or in combination with another major at ECU, the Bachelor of Arts French Concentration will prepare students to engage and succeed in a dynamic global society. 

Sample Four-Year Plan

French Education

The French Education (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students to teach French (K–12 licensure) in public and private schools. This degree offers students a combination of courses in language, literature, culture, linguistics, second language teaching methodology, and education with an internship experience.

Sample Four-Year Plan

G

Geographic Information Science and Technology

The Geographic Information Science and Technology (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students to understand how modern civilization consumes ever-­‐increasing amounts of geospatial data, such as satellite imagery, GPS (global positioning system), and survey features, maps, charts, and real-­time locational data. Creating information out of this torrent of data requires broad education and technical skills. This major provides students this cutting-­edge combination of skills and knowledge and opens the doors to numerous career opportunities.

Geographic Information Science & Technology Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

Geography

The Geography (Bachelor of Science) major prepares students for careers by developing a set of skills and a global perspective to help solve environmental and social issues. The curriculum covers issues of globalization and the intersection of social and environmental issues. Students also have the opportunity to gain valuable internship experience with state and city government and the private sector, working on community development, hazards impacts, coastal issues, and other topics. The degree provides students the skills you’ll need to help you build a dynamic career solving social and environmental issues.

Applied Geography Major Map

Sample Four-Year Plan

Geology

The Geology (Bachelor of Science) major educates students about the wide range of external and internal geological processes that shape the world we live in. Majors study topics such as rocks, minerals, rivers, beaches, volcanoes, glaciers, earthquakes, plate tectonics, groundwater, global climate change, soils, and sediments. Using a wide variety of tools and techniques, students learn how geologists investigate environmental hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, floods, hurricanes, beach erosion, volcanic eruptions, water pollution, and toxic chemical spills, the impact of changes in climate and sea level change on the environment and on human populations, the availability of mineral, energy, and water resources, the history of the earth and its inhabitants, and many other exciting topics.

Sample Four-Year Plan

German

The German (Bachelor of Arts) degree program develops proficiency in the language and cultures of German-­‐speaking societies. Students study German culture, film, history, literature, translation, and business communication to prepare for their desired career or postgraduate study. Often German degree students choose to “double major” in another field of their choice to make themselves more competitive in the job market. Graduates work in the fields of international business, international relations, pharmaceutical research, and education, just to name a few.

Sample Four-Year Plan

German Education

The German Education (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students to teach German (K–12 licensure) in public and private schools. This degree offers students a combination of courses in language, literature, culture, linguistics, second language teaching methodology, and education with an internship experience.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Global Studies

The Global Studies concentration within the BA in Foreign Languages and Literatures allows students to pursue a broad range of interests in issues of language and culture. Students may either concentrate in one language or apply coursework in two different languages toward the degree. Choose from a rotating list of classes with the FORL prefix, taught in English, to develop knowledge of additional language and culture areas.

Sample Four-Year Plan

 

H

Health Fitness Specialist

The Health Fitness Specialist (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares graduates for careers in the health and fitness industry, including employment in corporate or commercial fitness centers, community settings such as YMCAs, clinical and rehabilitative settings, and personal training. The degree program prepares graduates to take the ACSM Health Fitness Instructor Certification exam.

Sample Four-Year Plan

*As of August 2023, Health Fitness is no longer offered as a separate major. Please see the 2024-2025 requirements (available in July) for the Health Fitness concentration through Exercise Physiology.

Health Information Management

Emphasizes the development of skills for managing health information and the systems that collect, store, retrieve, disseminate, and communication information to support organizational operations and clinical and business decision-making. The curriculum is designed to help students develop the knowledge and tools necessary to become effective and efficient leaders in Health Information Management. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to sit for the RHIA credentialing examination.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Health Services Management

The Health Services Management (Bachelor of Science) major provides students with skills to function as supervisors and mid-­level managers in health care. Students study health-­care delivery systems, health-­care quality management, ethics and law, budget management, and personnel supervision. Employment sites include hospitals, nursing homes, physician group practices, and pharmaceutical, medical equipment, and insurance companies.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Hispanic Studies

The Hispanic Studies (Bachelor of Arts) major concentration provides a sound liberal arts background, combining courses in Spanish language, as well as Hispanic literatures, cultures, and linguistics. The degree’s emphasis on cultural awareness and analytical thinking skills prepares students for professional careers in industry or public service in a multicultural environment or postgraduate study.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Hispanic Studies Education

The Hispanic Studies Education (Bachelor of Arts) major concentration prepares students to teach Spanish (K–12 licensure) in public and private schools. This degree offers students a combination of courses in Spanish language, as well as Hispanic literatures, cultures, and linguistics. In addition, the coursework also includes classes in second language teaching methodology and education, with practicum and internship experiences. 

Sample Four-Year Plan

History

The History (Bachelor of Arts) program prepares students for challenging and exciting careers in teaching, policy analysis, politics, public service, public relations, communications, and research, writing, and editing. Graduates have found employment in schools, government agencies, international and non-­‐profit agencies, museums, archives, and historic sites. History has long been recognized as one of the ideal undergraduate preparations for careers in law, journalism, public policy, business, and public history.

History Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

History Education

The History Education (Bachelor of Science) program prepares students to teach high school social studies. The program involves extensive course work in all areas of social studies, including history, economics, sociology, political science, and geography. History education also offers honors students the opportunity to work closely with faculty members regarding particular areas of interest and involves an outstanding yearlong internship.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Hospitality Management

The Hospitality Management (Bachelor of Science) degree allows for the specialization in Conventions and Special Events Management, Food and Beverage Management, or Lodging Management. Students are prepared for professional practice through a solid foundation curriculum, specialized major coursework and a required minor in Business Administration. The curriculum balances theory, research and practical learning.

The Conventions and Special Events Concentration prepares graduates to pursue employment in varies areas. Convention centers, convention hotels, private clubs and many other businesses employ conference service managers, special event coordinator and convention sales professionals to enhance this segment of their business. In the special events area in particular, the opportunity exists for young professionals to pursue entrepreneurial goals.

The Food and Beverage Management Concentration prepares graduates to pursue careers in the food and beverage industry at all levels of service. Quick service, family restaurants, fine dining, contract food service, etc. are all options for students that want to work in the front and/or back of the house. Careers can start in the kitchen and/or dining room and/or beverage area.

The Lodging Management Concentration prepares graduates to pursue positions within lodging operations that range from Bed and Breakfast Inns and entrepreneurship opportunities to positions with corporate giants. Career opportunities exist on the corporate side and the franchise side of the business from the front desk, to sales, or back of the house in housekeeping and maintenance. The industry is a world-­wide venture.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Conventions and Special Events Management BS
Food and Beverage Management BS
Lodging Management BS

I

Industrial Distribution and Logistics

The Industrial Distribution and Logistics (Bachelor of Science) represents professions in the workplace concerned with the movement and delivery of goods and services throughout the world. This degree provides an applied distribution and logistics education for careers in operations, business to business sales, and transportation and logistics. The program will develop technical, analytical, business, and communication skills required for professional and organizational success and prepare graduates for successful careers in a wide range of settings.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Industrial Engineering Technology

The Industrial Engineering Technology (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in the improvement of processes in production and service environments. This includes instruction in process and productivity improvement, production operations, inventory control, operations management, cost and capital project analysis, plant layout, work planning, quality systems and statistical quality control. Graduates qualify for multiple career options, including positions in production engineering, project engineering and management, quality assurance, quality control, inventory control, industrial supervision, and human resource development.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Information and Cybersecurity Technology

The Information and Cybersecurity Technology (Bachelor of Science) program prepares students for many different challenges facing professionals in the information and technology field. Students gain the hands-­‐on skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers, which include such areas as computer network installation and maintenance, routing and switching technology, and network security and intrusion detection, to name a few.

The Cloud Technologies Concentration focuses on cloud network services and virtualization. Students learn to employ concepts related to Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Students will take courses under the Amazon Web Services (AWS) academy. Students obtain jobs as a cloud architect,cloud developer, and cloud administrator.

The Computer Networking Concentration prepares students to design, implement, troubleshoot, and maintain systems of computers and computer networks. Additionally, students are prepared for upward mobility with basic management courses. By choosing approved electives carefully, students may earn a minor in industrial supervision or a minor in business administration without taking additional courses. The computer networking concentration places emphasis on the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of intra-­‐ and internetworks. Advanced routing, switching, remote access, and network troubleshooting are covered in depth.

The Cybersecurity Concentration prepares students to design, implement, troubleshoot, and maintain systems of computers and computer networks. Additionally, students are prepared for upward mobility with basic management courses. By choosing approved electives carefully, students may earn a minor in industrial supervision or a minor in business administration without taking additional courses. The information security concentration places emphasis on the integrity, availability, confidentiality, and privacy of secure transmission and storage of information.

 

Sample Four-Year Plan

Cloud Technologies BS
Cybersecurity BS
Computer Networking BS
Information Security BS
Information Technology BS

Interior Design

The Interior Design (Bachelor of Science) program provides students with the education and experience needed to enter a career as a designer of residential or commercial interiors. The major produces graduates who work closely with architects, structural engineers, mechanical engineers, and builders, to determine how interior spaces will function, look, and be furnished.

Sample Four-Year Plan

International Studies

International Studies is a multidisciplinary major that provides students the opportunity to become more familiar with the social, political, cultural, and economic issues of importance for living, working and competing in our increasingly globalized society. Students complete core international studies courses and a regional or substantive concentration meant to prepare them for internationally-focused careers in their area of interest. Majors are encouraged to study available modern language offerings and take advantage of study abroad opportunities.

Sample Four-Year Plan

M

Management

The Management (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) program offers students the opportunity to acquire knowledge in the management of human and physical resources and to acquire skills useful in the management of domestic and international organizations. A management concentration will enable a graduate to find employment in any sector of business, whether it be in manufacturing, service, government, nonprofit, local, or abroad, while also promoting the skills necessary for starting a business. The Management Department offers concentrations in General Business, Human Resource Management, International Business, and Management.

Sample Four-Year Plan

General Business (Primarily designed for DE students)
Human Resource Management
International Business
Management

Management Information Systems

Management Information Systems (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) integrates business and computing, providing students the skills to solve business problems in technology-­‐based environments. Students learn to analyze and design effective information systems, successfully manage software projects, and develop business solutions, all while focusing on the role that computers play in human settings. Whether large or small, local or international, every organization depends on good information and information systems.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Marketing

Marketing (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) is concerned with the creation and delivery of value to customers and organizations. Marketing focuses on developing an understanding of customers and markets, creating products and services based on that understanding and communicating and delivering the value added. Many students with a concentration in marketing have gone on to successful careers in the fields of advertising, sales management, business marketing, research, distribution, retail management, product planning, services, and international marketing.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Marketing

Mathematics

The Mathematics (Bachelor of Arts) degree prepares students for successful careers in many diverse and rewarding areas, such as teaching at all levels, accounting and finance, computer software, sales and marketing, and many more. Students in the BA program can choose from two concentrations: mathematics or statistics. The BA requires fewer math courses than the BS, freeing up more options for study. This allows students to study outside fields of interest other than mathematics by choosing to “double major”, utilizing free electives, or adding a minor to diversify. The degree is also excellent preparation for professional programs such as law, business, and the health sciences.

The Mathematics (Bachelor of Science) degree program provides training in the theory and techniques of algebra, analysis, and other mathematics-­‐based fields as a basis for further work in pure and applied mathematics and for graduate studies. The BS curriculum provides more in-­‐ depth mathematical or science-­‐related study and will provide a more intensive exposure to the technical aspects of the discipline than the BA degree option. Students in this major choose from three concentrations: mathematics, statistics, or computer science. The BS degree prepares students for further study in the specialization areas in math or the sciences.

Mathematics Major Map (PDF)

Sample Four-Year Plan

Mathematics BA
Mathematics BS

 

Mathematics, Secondary Education

The Mathematics Education (Bachelor of Science) major prepares students to teach high school mathematics. The program involves coursework that nearly qualifies one for a major in mathematics; in fact, students may double major (mathematics education and mathematics) with a few additional courses. Students receive preparation in mathematics education (technology, seminars, and methods) to add to the pure content courses in mathematics. Experience in schools is an early and continual part of the program, in addition to the yearlong internship that caps the program.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Middle Grades Education

The Middle Grades Education (Bachelor of Science) prepares students to work with students in grades 6–9 in public schools. The program highlights the unique configuration of the middle school, as well as effectively working with the adolescent population academically, socially, and emotionally. The program culminates with an outstanding yearlong internship.

Sample Four-Year Plan

 

 

 

 

 

Music Education

The Music Education (Bachelor of Music) program is a professional program that prepares and develops students for teaching. The degree enables students to master the content, professional knowledge, and musicianship that is needed to be an effective teacher. At program completion, students may be licensed to teach grades K–12 music, but students also specialize in the areas of choral/general, string, or band/instrumental music. Students are expected to attain a high level of performance proficiency on their chosen applied instrument. Auditions are required prior to the entrance of this program.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Music Ed – Keyboard
Music Ed – Strings
Music Ed – Vocal
Music Ed – Wind/Percussion

 

Music Performance

The Music Performance (Bachelor of Music) major incorporates rigorous study of major applied instrument and advanced coursework in pedagogy, advanced music history and literature, and ensemble work, but each area of concentration provides specific skills and study. Auditions are required prior to the entrance of any of the programs listed below:

The Piano Performance Concentration program provides students a solid technical and musical background. Graduates are able to perform as professionals and continue study at the master’s level. Applied piano study is continuous throughout the course of study. Students study the concepts of piano pedagogy and learn to work on their own to become independent in their ability to prepare both solo and chamber music repertoire at the highest standards.

The Piano Pedagogy Concentration courses help students prepare to teach piano professionally as an independent, affiliated, or college/university instructor. The courses address the teaching of piano students of all levels and abilities and include such subjects as effective piano teaching techniques, evaluation of piano methods, development of a natural keyboard technique, supplementary piano teaching materials, learning theories, child development, group piano teaching, establishing the independent studio, and many other topics relevant to the professional world of piano teaching. Internships are provided in order to give the piano pedagogy student real-­‐life experiences in piano teaching.

The Organ Performance Concentration prepares organists whose ultimate goal is a career in college/university teaching and organ performance may wish to investigate the organ performance major. While this degree does not eliminate the possibility of a career in sacred music, it does place more emphasis on public performances and pedagogical knowledge and is a logical choice for those who wish to concentrate their energy on developing the highest level of performance. Students in this concentration aim for a balance between performance studies in applied organ, harpsichord, piano, historic performance practices, and academic courses including research projects, counterpoint, and specialized music history courses.

The Sacred Music – Organ/Sacred Music ‐ Voice Concentrations program prepares organists, singers, and choral conductors for a sacred music vocation by encouraging the development of practical, philosophical, and academic disciplines that are necessary for success as a sacred musician. Intensive study on their chosen instrument is required. Students take courses in choral conducting, the history of sacred music, the administration of a sacred music program, the philosophy of sacred music, liturgies, and complete a supervised sacred music internship. All students perform a senior recital and are encouraged to gain experience in conducting children’s, youth, and handbell ensembles, as well as developing their compositional skills.

The Vocal Performance Concentration is designed to prepare, develop, and advance students to a professional singing level. Students study all aspects of vocal performance including technique, interpretation, foreign languages, a wide variety of repertoire and styles, vocal science, and pedagogy. At program completion, students are prepared to further their study and preparation for performing careers in graduate programs or in other performance-­‐based programs. Students are prepared for graduate work that would lead to teaching positions in higher education.

The String Performance Concentration provides violin, viola, cello, double bass, and guitar students a solid technical and musical background. Graduates are able to perform as professionals and continue study at the master’s level. Students also benefit from study of an additional string instrument (except in the case of guitar). Students study concepts of pedagogy for their chosen performance medium and learn to work on their own to become independent in their ability to prepare repertoire at the highest standards. Violin, viola, cello, and bass students in this concentration benefit from intensive study of solo, chamber, and large orchestral literature. Guitar students benefit from intensive study of solo and chamber music literature.

The Wind Performance Concentration is designed to prepare brass or woodwind instrumentalists for active careers in music performance. This includes but is not limited to careers in audition preparation and orchestral performance, chamber music, and careers as soloists. Emphasis is placed on course offerings including applied lessons as well as performance groups including chamber music, wind ensemble, and orchestral performance.

The Percussion Performance Concentration provides students a solid technical and musical background. Graduates are able to perform as professionals and continue study at the master’s level. Study of a full array of percussion instruments is continuous throughout the course of study. Students study concepts of pedagogy and learn to work on their own to become independent in their ability to prepare repertoire at the highest standards. Students in this concentration benefit from intensive study of solo, chamber, and large ensemble literature.

The Jazz Studies – Instrumental/ Jazz Studies – Vocal Concentrations are designed to prepare students for a professional career in the field of jazz. In addition to studying their instruments from a jazz perspective, students also gain skills from traditional applied study, and vocals students also study diction and vocal pedagogy. Additional instruction in areas such as keyboard harmony, jazz history, jazz improvisation, and jazz theory, as well as arranging and rhythm section concepts is an integral part of this degree.

Sample Four-Year Plan

Music Performance – Guitar
Music Performance – Jazz Instrument
Music Performance – Jazz Voice
Music Performance – Piano
    Music Performance – Sacred Music: Organ
    Music Performance – Sacred Music: Voice
    Music Performance – Strings
    Music Performance – Voice
    Music Performance – Wind/Percussion

     

    Music Theory, Composition, and Musicology

    Composition: The ECU School of Music’s Composition program is devoted to helping you develop the skills necessary to pursue a professional and/or academic career in the composition of contemporary concert music.

    Music Theory: The ECU School of Music’s Theory program is designed to help you develop your skills in music analysis, with specialized instruction in counterpoint, Schenkerian and post-tonal analysis, as well as music theory pedagogy.

    Musicology: The ECU School of Music’s program in Musicology encompasses required undergraduate courses in Music History & Literature and World Music, and upper-division/graduate electives exploring the history of specific musical eras, as well as topics in ethnomusicology. This course of study is designed to give you a basic orientation to the repertoires and styles of music in various societies, and to the place of music in human history and culture.

    Composition
    Theory

    Music Therapy

    The Music Therapy (Bachelor of Music) program prepares, develops, and advances students to a professional level in music therapy. Students increase their content and professional knowledge in music and psychology through experiences and practicums. The level of musicianship needed to be an effective therapist is attained through performance proficiency on their major applied instrument, study of secondary instruments, and through the music core (music theory, musicianship, and music history). At program completion, students complete an internship, usually six months in duration, which leads to eligibility to sit for the national Board Certification Examination and professional status in the American Music Therapy Association. Auditions are required prior to the entrance of this program.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Music Therapy – Guitar
    Music Therapy – Keyboard
    Music Therapy – Voice
    Music Therapy – Wind/Percussion/Strings

    N

    Neuroscience

    Neuroscience is offered as a concentration in the Multidisciplinary Studies Program. It is designed to provide students with a diverse array of knowledge about brain organization and function through learning across the STEM (biology, chemistry, neuroscience, physics), social science (psychology), and humanities (philosophy) disciplines. The major is also designed to provide students with actual research experience by having them supervised by faculty with expertise in many specialized neuroscientific fields across the main campus, Brody School of Medicine, and the Allied Health Sciences. A large majority of the courses in the curriculum are pre­‐requisites for graduate programs and/or medical schools. Upon completion of this concentration, students may be better equipped to pursue admission into graduate programs, medical schools, and a variety of health/biomedical institutions that offer advanced degrees or certifications. Successful completion of this concentration may also translate into a career in neuroscience, psychology, medicine, and many other health/biomedical fields.

    Neuroscience Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Neuroscience BA
    Neuroscience BS

    Nursing

    Nursing (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) prepares students for licensure as registered nurses. It is a competitive, limited access major. Students begin as intended majors while they complete two years of general education curriculum and prerequisite courses prior to applying for admission to the clinical major. Graduates are prepared for beginning positions as nurse generalists, able to function in a wide variety of acute care or community health settings.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Because Nursing is so competitive it is recommended that students have an alternate or parallel plan so that they can still graduate in a timely manner if they are not accepted. Below are some common options.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Nutrition and Dietetics

    The Nutrition and Dietetics (Bachelor of Science) degree program prepares graduates to be registered dietitians, the health professionals who translate the science of nutrition into functional guidelines and practices people can use to improve both longevity and quality of life. Dietitians play a big part in explaining the valuable role nutrition plays in both the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases that are prevalent in our society. The major provides students with foundation knowledge and skills in nutrition science, clinical practice, food systems management, food production, research, informatics and counseling.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Didactic BS
    With Science BS

    P

    Philosophy

    Philosophy (Bachelor of Arts) critically examines fundamental beliefs. Philosophy majors explore answers to ultimate questions about human existence and critically examine the ethical and moral dimensions of life. Philosophical study develops the understanding and intellectual abilities essential for life in general. For students who intend to specialize in law or other professions requiring a broad knowledge base and a high level of critical-­‐thinking skill, the philosophy major provides a foundation for continuing to develop the knowledge and skill required to continue growing as a broadly educated person while advancing in one’s area of specialization.

    Philosophy Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Physical Education

    Physical Education (Bachelor of Science) prepares graduates to teach physical education in schools after meeting state teacher licensure requirements. Graduates may acquire positions in physical activity programs, sports camps, and community recreation programs as well as teach K–12 physical education.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Physics

    Physics (Bachelor of Science) is the foundation of the sciences, exploring all scales from the entire universe and the largest galaxies to the smallest particles. Our physics program presents challenging, innovative, and exciting career opportunities. We have options designed for students who want to apply physics to other areas as well as students who want to go on graduate study and become physicists. Our students gain the knowledge, experience, and training they need to succeed in globally competitive science careers.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Political Science

    Political Science majors study politics, government and law in America and other countries, as well as war, peace, globalization, and ways to diagnose and solve policy problems. Students who major in political science acquire skills in writing, communications, and analysis that are critical to a liberal arts education. Many different career paths can be followed, including government, business, finance, law, military service, journalism, political campaigns, and policy analysis. Recent graduates have found employment in all of these fields and many more.

    Political Science Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Political Science BA
    Political Science BS

    Professional Writing and Information Design

    Professional Writing and Information Design – (Bachelor of Science) students will study concepts and practices in writing and digital literacy;  multimedia composition; documentation; editing and publishing in print and electronic media; document design, production, and management; and web-based writing, management and design.  Technical communicators and information designers bridge the gap between subject matter experts and those who must understand or implement their ideas.

     

    Psychology

    Psychology (Bachelor of Arts) program provides a flexible major designed to provide the student with a broad education in psychology. The program provides the research techniques used in the scientific study of behavior and thought that can benefit students in the job market as well as continuing graduate study. Employment opportunities are available in a variety of areas such as residential counseling, social services case management, child care, sales, human resources, and market research.

    Psychology Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Public Health

    The Public Health (Bachelor of Science) prepares graduates to improve the health of individuals and communities through theory-­‐based best practices in health education, health promotion and disease prevention. Graduates work as vital members of health care teams in non-­‐profit organizations, public health departments, and hospitals as well as in local, state and national governmental agencies and private corporations. The BS in Public Health Studies has three concentration areas for students to choose from:

    The Community Health Concentration prepares students for work in community health, public health, and health care. Students develop skills in community organization, needs assessment, and educational strategies for individuals and organizations. Graduates help communities draw on their problem solving abilities, identify needs, and mobilize resources to strive for improved health. Graduates are eligible to sit for the certified health education specialist examination.

    The Pre­‐health Professions Concentration prepares students for advanced study in professional health-­‐care fields such as medicine, physician assistant, dentistry, and pharmacy. It provides a comprehensive background in biological and social sciences and health education to prepare students for graduate study and practice. Graduates are eligible to sit for the certified health education specialist examination.

    The Worksite Health Promotion Concentration prepares for employment in business, industry, and health care. They perform employee health screenings, plan health enhancement programs ranging from fitness and nutrition to stress management, implement health fairs, and work with others to promote employees’ health and productivity. Graduates are eligible to sit for the certified health education specialist examination.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Community Health BS
    Pre-Health Professions BS
    Worksite Health Promotion BS

    R

    Recreation and Park Management

    The Recreation and Park Management (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students for the management of recreation facilities and services. Students obtain knowledge and skills that prepare them for a professional career by incorporating practice through hands-­‐on learning experiences while developing tools that foster lifelong learning in the delivery of high-­‐quality services to the public. Options include commercial recreation and tourism, recreational sports leadership, outdoor recreation, and recreation management. Graduates work in recreation settings such as city and county parks; state and national parks; university recreation and recreational sport centers; nonprofit organizations; tourism destinations; and private commercial recreation businesses.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Recreational Therapy

    The Recreational Therapy (Bachelor of Science) program prepares students to provide treatment services to individuals with illnesses and disabilities in rehabilitation, psychiatric, long term care, and other facilities. Graduates are eligible to apply for North Carolina state licensure as a recreational therapist and national certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Rehabilitation Services

    The Rehabilitation Services (Bachelor of Science) degree prepares students to work with individuals receiving mental and social rehabilitation and related services, through public or private organizations, to improve their quality of life. Graduates may work as case managers, placement specialists, case workers, and in other similar roles as a liaison or advocate for their client. Working successfully with individuals who may have physical, mental, or substance abuse problems requires good communication skills, a strong interest in working with others, and a willingness to participate in the rehabilitation process as a team member.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Religious Studies

    Religious Studies (Bachelor of Arts), a multidisciplinary degree, helps students to think critically about religion as a historical and cultural phenomenon. Courses are taught by professors from a variety of disciplinary perspectives employing diverse scholarly approaches to their inquiries about religion, including those developed within the fields of anthropology, archaeology, art, history, literature, philosophy, psychology, and sociology. The program is nonsectarian and neither excludes nor promotes any religious tradition.

    Religious Studies Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan

     

    Russian Studies

    Russian Studies (Bachelor of Arts) is a multidisciplinary major that provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of Russia from both historical and contemporary perspective. Our innovative interdisciplinary approach designed for the 21-st century global economy integrates the study of Russian language with area studies in humanities, social sciences, and fine arts, making our program distinctive in the UNC system and eastern United States. The quality of our instruction, advising and mentoring can be measured by the success of our students in gaining graduate admissions to leading research universities, and their achievements in undergraduate research funding, including a U.S. Fulbright grants, a Phi Kappa Phi Award of Excellence, and URCA awards.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    S

    Science Education

    The Science Education (Bachelor of Science) major prepares students to teach high school science on a general science license. The program involves course work in all major areas of science, namely biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Students select one of the science areas as a concentration. Students take a number of courses in science education to add to the pure content courses in science. In addition to experience in schools early in the program, a yearlong internship caps the program.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Science Education – Biology BS
    Science Education – Chemistry BS
    Science Education – Geology BS
    Science Education – Physics BS

    Security Studies

    The Multidisciplinary Studies: Security Studies (BA or BS) program provides students an interdisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing the diverse domestic and international threats to U.S. security. These threats may be posed by natural disasters or by man, whether through governments or non-state actors such as terrorist groups. The program is designed to enable students to evaluate and develop responses to those threats at the international, national, state, and local levels. The program will also increase student understanding of the response activities and coordination required to meet the challenges posed by such threats. Building the analytical and writing skills that are in high demand in security-related professions is emphasized in the courses that are included in the curriculum.

    Security Studies Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Social Work

    The Social Work (Bachelor of Social Work) degree prepares students for immediate entry level professional social work employment in a variety of settings. Graduates are able to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities and equip students with the ability to be competent and effective generalist practitioners. Career options include family services, behavioral health, child welfare, aging, health care, women’s services, chemical dependency, corrections, community organizing, advocacy, and social policy.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Sociology

    The Sociology (Bachelor of Arts) degree is designed to develop a broad liberal arts perspective on the nature and diversity of societies and groups, while developing foreign language skills. Students have flexibility in developing a specific course of study, which will prepare them for the type of employment or advanced degree to which they plan to strive. Graduates of the bachelor of arts program frequently go on to jobs in social service agencies, business, research, and nonprofit organizations. Language skills make these graduates highly marketable. Many graduates also go on to graduate study in fields ranging from sociology to medicine.

    The Applied Sociology (Bachelor of Science) degree is designed for students interested in people, families, work settings, legal systems, and social and organizational problems. The curriculum is designed to develop oral and written communication, critical reasoning, and computer skills while students learn to apply the sociological perspective to understanding the world. Students may gain credit toward their degree by completing an internship, which enhances their marketability. Graduates of the program pursue jobs within the criminal justice system, social service agencies, business, research, and nonprofit organizations. Many students continue graduate study in fields such as sociology or law.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Sociology BA
    Applied Sociology BS

    Special Education Adapted Curriculum

    The Special Education, Adapted Curriculum (Bachelor of Science) program prepares candidates to teach K–12 public school students with low-­ incidence disabilities (those students with significant cognitive disabilities who may have other disabilities or impairments). The program includes a unique disabilities sciences concentration, which emphasizes a diverse group of students with severe and complex disabilities. A yearlong internship completes the program.

    The Special Education, General Curriculum (Bachelor of Science) program prepares candidates to teach K–12 public school students with mild to moderate disabilities in the traditional school setting. Central themes of the program consist of learning best practices for teaching students with disabilities including (but not limited to) learning disabilities, behavioral/emotional handicaps, and mild mental retardation. Students in this program apply acquired teaching skills during a culminating comprehensive yearlong internship experience.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Adapted Curriculum BS
    General Curriculum BS

    Speech and Hearing Sciences

    The Speech and Hearing Sciences (Bachelor of Science) program is a pre‐professional degree which emphasizes the normal processes of speech, hearing and language and allows students to explore other academic areas of interest. Since the master’s degree is the minimum level of preparation for persons seeking professional careers in this field, this major is designed to provide students with the necessary foundation for graduate education in speech language pathology, communication sciences and disorders, and/or audiology.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Sports Studies

    Sports Studies (Bachelor of Science) students study the place of sport in culture and society. The major requires students to take a minor, which will enable them to tailor their program to meet their specific career goals. This degree is intended for students who have an interest in sport and want careers in sport-­‐related occupations such as sport journalism, sport business, sport retail, sport management, and other related areas.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Supply Chain Management

    Supply Chain Management (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) prepares students for careers in the areas of sourcing, operations, and logistics of products and services. It also involves the management of relationships. Graduates in SCM have career choices as managers of purchasing, distribution, inventory, logistics, operations, quality, and supply chains. The SCM curriculum also helps prepare graduates to sit for the Certified Purchasing Manager examination.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    T

    Theatre Arts

    The Theatre Arts (Bachelor of Arts) degree provides students with a broad education in theatre, including acting, design and production, and theatre history, and literature.

    The Theatre Arts (Bachelor of Fine Arts) degree is an intensive, conservatory-­‐based program of study that prepares students for careers in a variety of theatre arts focused careers. The program incorporates traditional liberal arts educational opportunities with a choice of a distinct concentration. The program’s blend of theory and practice is supported by the personalized attention that you will receive both in the classroom and in the theatre.

    The Professional Acting Concentration offers rigorous training for students interested in careers as actors in professional theatre, film, and television. Emphasis is placed on developing the ability to compete successfully for employment in the professional and commercial realm. Auditions are required for entrance into the program.

    The Musical Theatre Concentration provides rigorous, specific training in singing, acting, and dance in preparation for performance in the commercial, Broadway-­‐model musical theatre. Auditions are required for entrance into the program.

    The Design and Production Concentration develops practical skills and theoretical knowledge in the areas of scenic design, scenic construction, scenic painting, stage lighting, stage makeup, and theatrical costuming. Students are well prepared to enter the professional production work market in theatre, film-­‐video, rock-­‐band touring, and/or graduate school.

    The Stage Management Concentration provides extensive training in the many skills required to manage theatrical production at the professional level. Students graduate with experience in all areas of theatrical production and in stage management of a full-­‐scale productions from initial development to completion.

    The Theatre for Youth Concentration provides a comprehensive, intensive training experience, including academics, studio training, and performance internships. This regimen will thoroughly prepare graduates for the rigors and demands of 21st century professional theatre for children and youth.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Entertainment Design and Production BFA
    Musical Theatre BFA
    Professional Actor Training BFA
    Stage Management BFA
    Theatre for Young Audiences BFA
    Theatre BA

    Theatre Arts Education

    The Theatre Arts Education (Bachelor of Fine Arts) degree provides a rich, comprehensive theatre education that complies with requirements for North Carolina licensure in teaching theatre arts in schools K–12. The program is comprised of studio, internship, classroom, and performance/technical experiences. Students are able to participate in onsite experiences in theatre education training. Training is further enhanced through participation in performance and technical theatre for main stage, studio, directing projects, and workshop productions on campus.

    Sample Four-Year Plan

    Theatre Arts Education

    U

    University Studies

    The Bachelor of Science in University Studies is designed as an alternate degree option for students who face significant roadblocks which prevent their continuation or completion of a traditional BA/BS degree. Students may use their coursework from their previous major(s) and/or transfer credits. Our students receive advising and faculty assistance to develop their curriculum upon declaring the University Studies major, and during our program’s introductory course UNIV 2000: Introduction to University Studies. This program is perfect for students with a higher number of completed credit hours (a minimum of 75 earned hours is required to declare), transfer students, and “part-way” students (adult learners who left college without a degree), as well as military personnel, veterans, and their family members who need a degree that can be tailored to their desires, but accepting of accumulated credit hours.

    University Studies Major Map (PDF)

    Sample Four-Year Plan