Degrees & Majors

Astronomers at Georgia State are involved in four main areas of research: Black Holes and Active Galaxies:  Monster black holes, with masses that are a million to a billion times more than our Sun, live at the centers of most galaxies. We specialize in observational studies of these massive compact monsters to measure their masses, study the accretion process and understand their effects on their host galaxy. Stars and Extrasolar Planets:  Stars are the beacons of the universe, and it is around stars that planets are formed and that life may exist. Using ground and space-based facilities, we are creating the most detailed maps to date of the distances, distribution and space motions of stars nearby, and in our galaxy.  We use the Center for High Angular Resolution Astronomy (CHARA) Array to measure the properties of stars in exquisite detail and test the predictions of how stars evolve.  We are also leading searches for exoplanets around young and nearby stars. Solar Physics:  The solar wind consists of charged particles streaming away from the surface of the Sun at high velocities. Occasionally, energetic events release million-degree plasma into space in a process called a solar flare. The solar wind and solar flares are the key influence on space weather, and ultimately space climate and Earth.  We are developing data-mining techniques to predict solar flares and solar eruptions, and developing computational models of coronal loops and magnetic reconnection. We develop simulations of the plasma flows deep inside of stars that ultimately produce their magnetic fields via the dynamo mechanism. We test theoretical models of the Sun’s interior by observing oscillation of its surface, an area called helioseismology. High Angular Resolution Imaging:  Georgia State owns and operates the CHARA Array, the world’s highest resolution optical interferometer.  This facility is able to image the surfaces of stars, revealing for the first time temperature variations across their surface caused by star spots and rapid rotation.  We develop techniques for image restoration/reconstruction when observed with interferometric techniques, and for ultra high-resolution imaging done through strong turbulence in the atmosphere.

Astronomers at Georgia State are involved in four main areas of research: Black Holes and Active Galaxies:  Monster black holes, with masses that are a million to a billion times more than our Sun, live at the centers of most galaxies. We specialize in observational studies of these massive compact monsters to measure their masses, study the accretion process and understand their effects on their host galaxy. Stars and Extrasolar Planets:  Stars are the beacons of the universe, and it is around stars that planets are formed and that life may exist. Using ground and space-based facilities, we are creating the most detailed maps to date of the distances, distribution and space motions of stars nearby, and in our galaxy.  We use the Center for High Angular Resolution Astronomy (CHARA) Array to measure the properties of stars in exquisite detail and test the predictions of how stars evolve.  We are also leading searches for exoplanets around young and nearby stars. Solar Physics:  The solar wind consists of charged particles streaming away from the surface of the Sun at high velocities. Occasionally, energetic events release million-degree plasma into space in a process called a solar flare. The solar wind and solar flares are the key influence on space weather, and ultimately space climate and Earth.  We are developing data-mining techniques to predict solar flares and solar eruptions, and developing computational models of coronal loops and magnetic reconnection. We develop simulations of the plasma flows deep inside of stars that ultimately produce their magnetic fields via the dynamo mechanism. We test theoretical models of the Sun’s interior by observing oscillation of its surface, an area called helioseismology. High Angular Resolution Imaging:  Georgia State owns and operates the CHARA Array, the world’s highest resolution optical interferometer.  This facility is able to image the surfaces of stars, revealing for the first time temperature variations across their surface caused by star spots and rapid rotation.  We develop techniques for image restoration/reconstruction when observed with interferometric techniques, and for ultra high-resolution imaging done through strong turbulence in the atmosphere.

What Is Biology? Biology is the science of life, from simple bacteria to complicated organisms. Biologists pursue a wide range of interests, among them researching diseases, exploring the evolution of organisms, modeling the complexity of ecosystems and examining the distribution of living organisms. Why Study Biology? Why do people get old and die? Why do seeds grow up, not down? How does injecting someone with a virus prevent them from catching it? Biologists learn the answers. Students of biology develop an understanding of how living things work and affect each other. They work to answer new questions about the natural world, whether it is about environmental impact or human health and well-being. Will building a new dam destroy a rare flower or increase populations of parasites? Where did the latest Salmonella outbreak originate? Why are some cancers resistant to chemotherapy? How do we make a vaccine for AIDS? Biologists perform research to discover answers to these questions, apply their research and teach the discoveries to a new generation. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.

What Is Biology?

Biology is the science of life, from simple bacteria to complicated organisms. Biologists pursue a wide range of interests, among them researching diseases, exploring the evolution of organisms, modeling the complexity of ecosystems and examining the distribution of living organisms.

Why Study Biology?

Why do people get old and die? Why do seeds grow up, not down? How does injecting someone with a virus prevent them from catching it? Biologists learn the answers. Students of biology develop an understanding of how living things work and affect each other. They work to answer new questions about the natural world, whether it is about environmental impact or human health and well-being. Will building a new dam destroy a rare flower or increase populations of parasites? Where did the latest Salmonella outbreak originate? Why are some cancers resistant to chemotherapy? How do we make a vaccine for AIDS? Biologists perform research to discover answers to these questions, apply their research and teach the discoveries to a new generation. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.

Dual-degree opportunities enable qualified students to enroll in graduate courses late in their undergraduate program and apply the coursework toward both the bachelor’s and master’s programs. That can mean saving a year or more in time and tuition dollars. Students must be formally accepted into the dual-degree program by the department and College of Arts and Sciences to be able to take graduate courses as an undergraduate. Acceptance into the dual program does not constitute admission to the master’s program. Students must fulfill regular graduate admissions requirements and apply for the master’s program following college processes. Information about the dual program, including application instructions and program requirements, can be found in the Dual Degree section of the CAS website.

Dual-degree opportunities enable qualified students to enroll in graduate courses late in their undergraduate program and apply the coursework toward both the bachelor’s and master’s programs. That can mean saving a year or more in time and tuition dollars. Students must be formally accepted into the dual-degree program by the department and College of Arts and Sciences to be able to take graduate courses as an undergraduate. Acceptance into the dual program does not constitute admission to the master’s program. Students must fulfill regular graduate admissions requirements and apply for the master’s program following college processes. Information about the dual program, including application instructions and program requirements, can be found in the Dual Degree section of the CAS website.

A graduate degree in biology can open doors to many rewarding careers. The Biology Department’s Ph.D. program prepares graduates for a range of positions in private industry, public agencies and academia, among others. Potential job titles include principal scientist, research associate, microbiologist, research biologist, field application scientist and analytical staff scientist. There are many benefits to getting a graduate degree. It makes you a more competitive candidate whether you are seeking a job or admission to another professional school. A graduate degree can also increase your earning potential and help you develop a professional network.

A graduate degree in biology can open doors to many rewarding careers. The Biology Department’s Ph.D. program prepares graduates for a range of positions in private industry, public agencies and academia, among others. Potential job titles include principal scientist, research associate, microbiologist, research biologist, field application scientist and analytical staff scientist. There are many benefits to getting a graduate degree. It makes you a more competitive candidate whether you are seeking a job or admission to another professional school. A graduate degree can also increase your earning potential and help you develop a professional network.

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) in Biomedical Science and Enterprise (BSEN) program prepares graduates for a range of exciting careers in the biomedical industry or advanced degrees in science, business or law. The program offers an innovative approach to education that combines studies in biomedical science, business, entrepreneurship and law, and teaches students the scientific, legal and commercial aspects of scientific discovery. The BSEN program is a perfect fit for anyone passionate about patient care, intrigued by the scientific study of human diseases or interested in creating and marketing the next generation of disease-preventing therapeutics or wearable health devices. It’s also for those who have dreams of working in a hospital, pharmaceutical company or biomed startup. Our versatile graduates possess diverse skills sought by leading industry employers, and they’re ready to make a lasting difference that advances human health and improves the quality of human life. The program is offered by the Institute for Biomedical Sciences in partnership with the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Law, Honors College, J. Mack Robinson College of Business and the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute.

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) in Biomedical Science and Enterprise (BSEN) program prepares graduates for a range of exciting careers in the biomedical industry or advanced degrees in science, business or law. The program offers an innovative approach to education that combines studies in biomedical science, business, entrepreneurship and law, and teaches students the scientific, legal and commercial aspects of scientific discovery. The BSEN program is a perfect fit for anyone passionate about patient care, intrigued by the scientific study of human diseases or interested in creating and marketing the next generation of disease-preventing therapeutics or wearable health devices. It’s also for those who have dreams of working in a hospital, pharmaceutical company or biomed startup. Our versatile graduates possess diverse skills sought by leading industry employers, and they’re ready to make a lasting difference that advances human health and improves the quality of human life. The program is offered by the Institute for Biomedical Sciences in partnership with the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Law, Honors College, J. Mack Robinson College of Business and the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute.

What Is Business Administration? Business is the making, buying or selling of goods or services. Business administration is the study of principles, practices and dynamics of organizations related to commercial or industrial activity. Why Study Business Administration? The world of business is changing and expanding in new and exciting ways. At Perimeter College, Business Administration students develop specialized skills in business fields and improve their ability to communicate, think independently and thrive in the workplace. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.  

What Is Business Administration?

Business is the making, buying or selling of goods or services. Business administration is the study of principles, practices and dynamics of organizations related to commercial or industrial activity.

Why Study Business Administration?

The world of business is changing and expanding in new and exciting ways. At Perimeter College, Business Administration students develop specialized skills in business fields and improve their ability to communicate, think independently and thrive in the workplace. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor’s degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.  

Program Information Economics examines the material prosperity of countries and their citizens in an interdependent world of limited resources and technological change. In doing so, it studies how decisions are made by private businesses, governments, and households in producing, consuming, and distributing goods. In general, economics is concerned with monetary arrangements and their impact upon purchasing power and economic performance.

Program Information

Economics examines the material prosperity of countries and their citizens in an interdependent world of limited resources and technological change. In doing so, it studies how decisions are made by private businesses, governments, and households in producing, consuming, and distributing goods. In general, economics is concerned with monetary arrangements and their impact upon purchasing power and economic performance.

The mission of the business economics major in the Master of Science program is to prepare students to function successfully as professional economists in the corporate and business environment. More specifically, the program endeavors to: build a solid background in micro and macroeconomic theory; equip students with an extensive knowledge of analytical and statistical techniques; provide expertise and practice in applying theory and quantitative tools to actual business problems; and ensure that students are able to communicate this information both in a technical way to peers and in a more general way for decision-making by upper management. For the latest information about required courses, view the Robinson College of Business website.

The mission of the business economics major in the Master of Science program is to prepare students to function successfully as professional economists in the corporate and business environment. More specifically, the program endeavors to:

• build a solid background in micro and macroeconomic theory;
• equip students with an extensive knowledge of analytical and statistical techniques;
• provide expertise and practice in applying theory and quantitative tools to actual business problems; and
• ensure that students are able to communicate this information both in a technical way to peers and in a more general way for decision-making by upper management.

For the latest information about required courses, view the Robinson College of Business website.