Degrees & Majors
Choose from dozens of nationally ranked and recognized programs and more than 250 majors, minors and pathways at the university offering the widest variety of fields of study in Georgia.
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The information shared here is intended to provide an overview of Georgia State’s offerings. For details on admissions requirements, tuition, courses and more please refer to the university catalogs.
Bachelor of Music, Concentration in Music Education, B.Mu.
The Music Education Faculty believes all cultures should be represented and that both traditional and novel settings should be used to teach music. You will take traditional method classes but will also learn to improvise, use electric instruments, compose and much more. You will learn to be the best possible ensemble/choral director in addition to being able to design novel student-centered instruction. Most important, you will learn to channel your passion for music through effective instruction. Music Education prepares you to teach music in schools or other group settings from early childhood through adulthood. After graduation, you qualify for a Georgia teaching certificate in K-12 music. In addition to performance, you will study child development and learning, as well as methods of teaching music. Applicants should have a strong background in music performance and music reading and should have a particular interest in sharing their love of music with others. The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Bachelor of Music, Concentration in Music Performance, B.Mu.
Music Performance (Bachelor of Music) prepares students for careers as performing musicians or studio teachers. A strong background in music reading and performance (including participation in school bands, choirs, or orchestras, performance experience in small groups and as a soloist and private study) is required. Many students in this concentration have excelled in community groups such as youth orchestras and have performed in public concerts and recitals. Graduates in performance from Georgia State have gone on to have major careers in some of the world's most prestigious venues. An audition is required for admission. The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Bachelor of Music, Concentration in Music Technology (Recording), B.Mu.
Music Technology (Recording/Music Production) prepares students for work in artistic, technical or producer/director capacities in music and music-related media industries. Students are aesthetically and practically trained for work as audio engineers and music technologists. Auditions are required. The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Bachelor of Science, Concentration in Music Management, B.Mu.
Music Management (Bachelor of Science) prepares students for a variety of management-related careers in the music industry, including profit and non-profit sectors. The curriculum is founded on basic knowledge of music, experiences in performing and courses in business and music management. Graduates may work in a range of capacities at record labels and distributors or in artist and concert management, retail sales or music publishing. Students complete at least one internship with a commercial firm or non-profit agency as part of their programs. The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Bachelor/J.D.
Through the Bachelor/J.D. Accelerated Degree Program with the Honors College, a small number of highly talented and qualified students will have the opportunity to complete a bachelor of arts, a bachelor of science, bachelor of social work or a bachelor of business administration and a J.D. at Georgia State University in six years rather than seven. Learn more at honors.gsu.edu/acceleratedjd. Questions about the J.D.? Contact Jessica Gabel Cino, associate dean for academic affairs and associate professor of law. For the latest information about required courses, view the Honors College website.
Biology Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
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.
Biology, B.S.
The career possibilities are endless with a bachelor’s degree in biology. A strong foundation in life science is a strong foundation for almost any career path. While students can choose to stay on the General Studies track, we offer concentrations in: Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology Microbiology Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology Neurobiology Pre-Medical/Pre-Health Undergraduate students can get involved in research and two interdisciplinary areas of focus — The Molecular Basis of Disease program and The Brains and Behavior program — provide competitive fellowships, seminars and symposia to support Biology undergraduate and graduate researchers. The Department also offers students the unique opportunity to participate in community outreach through the Bio-Bus program, which sends a mobile teaching laboratory to primary and secondary schools throughout metro-Atlanta.
Biology, B.S./M.S.
Biology, B.S./M.S.
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.
Biology, M.S.
Biology, M.S.
Earning an M.S. degree in biology can be a stepping stone to a career in the biosciences or in preparation for a professional degree. The Master of Science (M.S.) degree program in Biology offers a flexible curriculum that can incorporate courses from other departments and colleges at Georgia State. Students must complete at least 40 credit hours of approved coursework. Students may apply under a specific area/concentration, though a concentration is not required. Upon admission, a master's student is assumed to be non-thesis until acceptance into the thesis option. The non-thesis program emphasizes coursework, and a capstone paper or project is required. The capstone can either be literature-based or laboratory-based. The thesis option emphasizes research. Acceptance into the thesis option requires approval of a thesis proposal. Completion of the thesis option requires an approved thesis as well as a successful defense of the thesis. The thesis option is only recommended for students who are planning to pursue a Ph.D. For information about the M.S. in Medical Sciences in Biology program, which is designed for students who plan to apply to medical school, go to https://cas.gsu.edu/program/medical-sciences-in-biology-ms/.
Biology, Ph.D.
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.
Biomedical Enterprise, M.I.S.
Institute for Biomedical Sciences
The Master of Interdisciplinary Studies (M.I.S.) in Biomedical Enterprise program equips students to enter the biomedical enterprise workforce through its unique interdisciplinary coursework in science, law and business, accompanied by interactive projects and internships. In partnership with the nationally ranked J. Mack Robinson College of Business and the College of Law, this innovative program teaches students how to bring biomedical advances to the marketplace, empowering them to make important contributions that could improve human health and save lives. Students gain a competitive edge by developing the skills sought by employers, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration across disciplines. They are also prepared to work in a number of areas, including biotechnology, pharmaceutics, entrepreneurship, consulting, education, outreach, government and other fields.
Biomedical Science and Enterprise, B.I.S.
Institute for Biomedical Sciences
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.
Birth Through Five, B.S.Ed.
The B.S.Ed. program in birth through five (B-5) prepares teachers and other early care and education professionals to work in varied settings with young children and their families. Age ranges from infancy through kindergarten, including children who are typically developing and those with disabilities. Our program: Offers evening and online classes Allows students to complete clinical field experience in their work-based settings Prepares students to be innovative, creative and high-quality early childhood educators Offers certification and non-certification options There are two concentrations: Teacher certification Non-teacher certification Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc. ...
Business Administration Pathway, A.S.
Perimeter College
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.
Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Robinson College of Business
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.
Career and Technical Specializations, Undergraduate Certificate
College of Education & Human Development
GSU is no longer offering a Career and Technical Specializations Education program. Interested candidates may click here to find a provider with an approved program for this area. The career and technical specializations certificate prepares people with practical and theoretical knowledge and skills to be successful in career and technical education classrooms and laboratories. Our certificate program, approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission for teacher certification, begins during the summer semester. Applications are accepted through the first week of summer classes or until the program is full. Students spend three weeks in the summer on Georgia State's campus, followed by a synchronous online class one night a week in the fall and spring. Students also participate in a student teaching practicum in which a Georgia State educator mentors them at their school of employment.
Ceramics, B.F.A.
The ceramics concentration emphasizes professional skills and achievements and fosters personal direction, diversity, technical proficiency and professional presentation. Students in this program develop a broad base of technique and process knowledge that emphasizes experimentation and conceptual development. The program encourages mixed media exploration, stemming from a core knowledge of ceramic art. Students develop an understanding of ceramics’ vast history and investigate contemporary practices. Methods include handbuilding, wheel throwing, mold-making, slip casting, press molding, clay extrusion, figure sculpting, portrait sculpting, glaze calculation, decal creation, china painting and 3D modeling. Students gain the experience of organizing events and marketing through their involvement with the student organization, Student League of Independent Potters. The organization is responsible for managing a budget, participating in fundraising through two annual sales of work and coordinating two annual visiting artist workshops.
Ceramics, M.F.A.
The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Ceramics program emphasizes professional skills and achievements and fosters personal direction, diversity, technical proficiency and professional presentation. The Ceramics program offers a highly progressive curriculum that considers ceramics as a broad-based, interdisciplinary practice while providing a strong foundation in the history of the discipline and fostering technical mastery of the material. The individual direction of each student is further developed and focused through intensive time in the studio, group interaction across disciplines and periodic critical reviews. Diversity of working methods and aesthetic define the work that emerges from the Ceramics Department, work ranging from sculptural to functional, formal to conceptual, traditional to innovative is embraced. Sensitive handling of material, integrity of craftsmanship and depth of inquiry are the unifying characteristics of work made in the ceramics M.F.A. program. The program emphasizes individual tutorials, group seminars and critiques to provide a variety of settings for the development and exchange of ideas relevant to the arts in general and ceramics in particular. The curriculum addresses the broad range of perspectives found in contemporary ceramic art, from sculpture to vessel-reference work, to pottery. Historical and contemporary references are examined through two unique art history courses specific to the area of ceramic art. In the final two semesters of the graduate program, the student completes a creative project, usually in the form of a thesis exhibition, and writes a supporting thesis paper. A strong component of the graduate program involves assistantships in either studio work or in teaching undergraduate-level courses. Students are encouraged to teach a variety of courses during their studies, from 3D Design to wheel-throwing and hand-building skills. These experiences in conjunction with the acquisition of professional skills such as resume writing, job application skills and self-promotion prepare the student with the tools to be a professional artist once studies are complete. Students also gain the experience of organizing events and marketing through their involvement with the student organization, Student League of Independent Potters. The organization is responsible for managing a budget, participating in fundraising through two annual sales of work and coordinating two annual visiting artist workshops.