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

The Doctor of Education degree with a major in Adult and Career Education provides advanced, professional learning for individuals pursuing careers in teaching and leadership of adult and career education and related fields.  This program prepares students for working with adult learners in career education fields in the secondary and postsecondary education and private workforce education and government agency contexts. 

The Master of Education degree with a major in Adult and Career Education provides advanced, professional learning for individuals pursuing careers in teaching and leadership of adult and career education and related fields.  This program prepares students for working with adult learners in career education fields in the secondary and postsecondary education and private workforce education and government agency contexts. 

In today’s fast-paced world of ever-changing market dynamics, a VSU advertising and promotions minor learns the skills necessary to adapt to those changes as necessary while still keeping a firm grasp on the foundational skills of marketing. As such, our faculty focuses on teaching students the critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning skills necessary for today’s marketing and advertising practitioners and executives.

Africana Studies, an academic discipline, offers an intellectual approach to the study of African people both nationally and globally. Thus, it seeks to provide historically accurate assessments of the roles and contributions of people of African descent to America and to human history. As as interdisciplinary program, this minor offers students the opportunity to communicate more effectively across cultural lines as well as to explore the social, political, and economic reality of the black experience in the United States. In addition, the minor encourages creative research, the acquisition of practical experiences, and the development of intellectual expertise in Africana Studies. 

Sociology is a social science that involves the study of human society. Sociologists examine aspects of society and social behavior, including cultures, social institutions, groups and more. Anthropology also involves the study of people but focuses on humans and their immediate ancestors. Anthropologists examine patterns of culture and behavior in order to understand human diversity in the present and past. Students in the sociology and anthropology undergraduate program have the unique opportunity to take core classes in both disciplines, then select a concentration in either applied and clinical sociology or anthropology. The graduate program focuses on applied sociology, a field in which sociological knowledge is used to analyze real-world situations.

The minor is designed to prepare students for careers in research, education, industry, and government. If you are a STEM major; you are halfway toward a Mathematics or Statistics minor!

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

Astronomy, one of the oldest sciences, is the study of celestial bodies including planets, stars, galaxies and other entities in space. Astronomers utilize principles in physics to learn about the universe and create theories based on their research. Astronomy majors at Valdosta State University gain knowledge of the fundamental branches of astronomy, including solar system astronomy, astrophysics and observational astronomy. 

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

A new Minor in Biology will be available starting in fall 2017. The minor requires fifteen hours of upper division biology courses including genetics, ecology and evolution, and eight hours of upper division biology electives.

A master of business administration degree helps business professionals succeed by equipping them with advanced skills in areas such as accounting, marketing, economics, quantitative methods, organizational behavior and finance. The degree is one of the most popular postgraduate degrees and is an important tool for professionals hoping to advance their careers. The Master of Business Administration program at Valdosta State University integrates knowledge of the functional areas of business with ongoing developments in business practice. Graduates of the program are able to solve real-world business problems, have an appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives and are prepared for management careers in both for-profit and not- for-profit organizations.

Chemistry is all about imagining new solutions and solving problems. These skills are relevant in every field, which is why a Minor in Chemistry can be so useful. Chemistry relates to so many fields of science, engineering and mathematics. In addition, the chemical industry employs many graduates with business degrees. A Minor in Chemistry can give you a competitive advantage when applying to nursing school or other post-graduate health science programs.

The coaching minor offered through the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education is based on the Coaching Education National Standards issued by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education. This minor is useful for those interested in sports programs, recreation, travel leagues, and more. Employment for coaches and related fields is expected to increase over the next few years and the expansion of new professional teams and leagues may create additional openings for coaching opportunities.

Speech communication, a discipline with roots predating ancient Greece, has been one of the fastest-growing fields of study in the United States for nearly two decades. Effective communication is crucial to the success of organizations and businesses today and is central to several fields including public relations and politics. The speech communication program at Valdosta State University provides a balance of theory and practice, and students learn about communication in a variety of contexts.

Valdosta State University offers a graduate program with emphases in Mass Media and Communication. The mission of the program's faculty is to provide a graduate-level curriculum that combines advanced theoretical knowledge and applied skills that will allow students to assume positions of leadership in their chosen professions and prepare them for study at the doctoral level. Thesis and non-thesis options are available.

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

The objective of the program is to prepare advanced practitioners and future university clinical faculty in Communication Sciences and Disorders through provision of an affordable, rigorous, high quality clinical doctorate. The clinical doctorate would have emphasis on the social and cultural aspects of communication sciences and disorders (speech and language pathology) as it applies to both allied health care and educational services to under-served populations.

This clinical doctorate is designed to deepen the knowledge, leadership, and problem-solving skills of current practitioners with a focus on coursework and applications that incorporate current research, ethical decision-making, and models of best practice. The curriculum will prepare doctoral students to analyze, synthesize, and apply research-based theory to their current work environment and through the development of the applied dissertation.

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

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) program in Counselor Education requires a total of 60 semester. Students will begin in the summer semester (only) after being admitted to the program. The M.Ed. in Counselor Education allows students to focus on one of two tracks: School Counseling or Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The School Counseling track of the program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP). The newly developed Clinical Mental Health Counseling track is CACREP-like and adheres to CACREP accreditation standards.

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

Criminal justice is a rapidly expanding field of academic study. Many governmental agencies are requiring advanced degrees for those seeking administrative and managerial positions. The Master’s Degree is designed to broaden the perspectives of criminal justice practitioners, to equip practitioners with advanced knowledge and skills, and to prepare students with further graduate work and scholarship. Graduates are provided the necessary skills to succeed in the public and private sectors.

Applications for the MS degree are accepted during the Spring, Summer and Fall semesters.

The Ed.D. with a major in Curriculum and Instruction and a concentration in learning and development offers an engaging and flexible educational model designed for those who are currently working, or who wish to work, in corporate or higher education learning environments (If you are a P-12 Georgia educator seeking an action to your Georgia certificate, please review our GaPSC approved program). Our innovative program provides practical opportunities for students to relate theoretical foundations to curricular and instructional issues faced in real-world settings. You will enjoy learning from our quality faculty whose real-world experience and knowledge has been acquired through many years learning, researching, and working in the domains of our field. We have also integrated strategically designed elective pathways that could lead to certificates that increase your personal equity and marketability. Elective pathways include:

• Higher education
• Certificate in Online Teaching
• Certificate in Public Sector Human Resource Management
• Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Administration

Our program delivery includes online and hybrid options.

The Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: P-12 Disciplinary Concentration degree offers an engaging and flexible educational model designed to fit the busy schedules of working professional educators in a variety of instructional fields. Our innovative program provides practical opportunities for students to relate theoretical foundations to curricular and instructional issues facing schools and other educational systems. You will enjoy learning from our quality faculty whose real-world experience and knowledge has been acquired through many years learning, researching, and working in the domains of our field. Our program delivery includes online and hybrid options. Additionally, 2 required one-day doctoral seminars are held on a Saturday in Valdosta, GA in June at the beginning of year one and beginning of year 2. Electives will vary in delivery format based on your approved selections, and they must align with your declared disciplinary concentration.

Advantages of this program are:

• Approved by the GaPSC as an advanced program, which will lead to a certificate upgrade but will add no new field to your certificate.
• Students holding a valid GaPSC Standard Professional certificate (or higher) qualify for the Alternate Level 6 Certification Option upon successful completion of 36 credit hours and an approved portfolio.
• Students holding a valid GaPSC Standard Professional certificate (or higher) qualify for a Level 7 Certification upon successful degree completion.
• No GACE exam required
• Available concentrations include:

The field of curriculum and instruction involves improving curriculum and academic achievement in schools, enhancing teaching strategies and bringing creativity into classrooms. The curriculum and instruction program at Valdosta State University provides opportunities for experienced practitioners in a variety of instructional fields to further study curricular and instructional issues facing schools, school systems, higher education establishments and other educational agencies.

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

A minor in Deaf Studies was established by Valdosta State University to provide students with knowledge and skills in American Sign Language (ASL) as well as Deaf Culture, linguistics. Students pursing a minor in Deaf Studies are exposed to the uniqueness of ASL as a world language while acquiring cultural knowledge that will enable them to successfully interact with the American Deaf community. The curriculum is designed to promote a cultural and linguistic understanding of Deaf individuals while encouraging students to analyze existing stereotypes pertaining to this population, so they in turn, can effectively educate hearing members of society.

The Deaf Studies Minor is housed in the Department of Middle, Secondary, Reading & Deaf Education within the James L. and Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education at Valdosta State University. Students can enroll in the program as traditional/on campus residents, or complete coursework through distance learning/video conferencing technology. The Department offers undergraduate programs in ASL/Interpreting, Deaf Education, Middles Grades Education, Reading and master's degree preparation in Special Education: Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

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

The Educational Leadership Master’s Degree Program is a comprehensive program of study including course work and related field experiences leading to a Tier I Georgia certificate in Educational Leadership.  The candidate will undertake activities addressing curriculum development, student and program evaluation, staff development, scheduling, interpretation and use of statistical data for school improvement planning, budgeting procedures, school/community relations, facility maintenance and operations, and the uses of technology for administrative and instructional purposes

The Master of Education in Elementary Education is designed to build on the Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Candidates are expected to refine this base, developing abilities to deal with more of the intricate aspects of the teaching experience.

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

Whether you are seeking opportunities for professional development, certification advancement or an advance in salary, our rigorous program, housed in a premier regional university that also offers a traditional English MA in a regular bricks-and-mortar setting, will provide you with the training you seek in order to succeed professionally. The curriculum includes advanced courses in composition theory, rhetoric, grammar, second language learners, creative writing, and literature.  Our British, American and multicultural literature courses are intended to provide the kind of deeper content that leads to sophisticated teaching of familiar authors and works but also to the teaching of writers and texts that may be less well known.  Overall, because our curriculum covers every major subfield, we are able to offer a wide range of course offerings.

The VSU ESOL Endorsement is a fully online, three-course sequence, endorsement for certified teachers in Georgia. The endorsement curriculum prepares students to respond to the growing number of English language learners in regular content classrooms. The ESOL endorsement is an asset to professionals in all teaching fields. The Endorsement may be completed independently and can be integrated into a graduate program of study for degree-seeking students.

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages offers the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Education – English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). The MAT in Education with a concentration in ESOL is a 36 semester hour, fifth-year program beyond the bachelor’s degree in which candidates may earn a master’s degree (MAT) and become eligible for initial teaching certification in English as a Second Language. This program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Graduates will also earn the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Endorsement for Georgia certified teachers, speech and language pathologists, or school counselors.

The MAT is for candidate seeking initial certification only! Teachers with current certification in any subject matter are not suitable for this program.

The MAT in Education – ESOL can be completed on a fully online basis.

The minor in Entrepreneurship provides skills necessary for success in a wide variety of organizations.  Motivating people, communicating effectively, integrating technology, using data, critical thinking, and understanding other cultures prepare students for the demands of the 21st century. The minor provides non-business majors the basic skills to successfully start and manage a business.

Management graduates move into positions of responsibility in large and small organizations.  They are prepared for careers in manufacturing, retail, and service industries as well as government and not-for-profit organizations.

Environmental Studies is an interdisciplinary minor focusing on how human systems have impacted the natural world. Our program draws from a variety of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences that provide students with a wide range of perspectives on environmental issues. These issues are becoming a focus in public and private sectors.

The Masters in Exercise Physiology program is housed in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, in the School of Health Sciences. The program integrates an advanced scientific study of the biological, physiological, and rehabilitative medical sciences as they relate to physiological responses to exercise and other aspects of human health. This includes instruction in muscular and skeletal anatomy; molecular and cellular basis of skeletal muscle contraction; substrate utilization; systemic physiological responses to exercise; fatigue and exhaustion; muscle and body training; physiology of specific exercises and activities; physiology of injury; and the effects of disabilities and disease.

Our faculty specialize in the areas of Exercise Physiology with expertise in clinical exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiovascular physiology, clinical exercise testing and prescription, skeletal muscle performance and fatigue, sport nutrition, thermoregulatory and occupational physiology, physical activity monitoring, chronic disease management, and obesity and weight management.

Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (FPMHNP) are advanced practice registered nurses who assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues across the lifespan through pharmacotherapeutic and psychotherapeutic interventions. FPMHNPs work in clinical settings that include private, state or Veterans Administration in-patient or outpatient psychiatric facilities, private psychiatric practices, and community mental health centers. PMHMPs also provide services in settings such as correctional facilities, domestic violence shelters, residential substance abuse facilities, and schools.

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages offers the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Education – Foreign Language Education (FLED) (French or Spanish). The MAT in Education with a concentration in FLED is a 36 semester hour, fifth-year program beyond the bachelor’s degree in which candidates may earn a master’s degree (MAT) and become eligible for initial teaching certification in French or Spanish. Successful candidates may receive the ESOL endorsement for certified teachers. This program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

The MAT is for candidate seeking initial certification only! Teachers with current certification in any subject matter are not suitable for this program.

The MAT in Education – FLED can be completed on a fully online basis. 

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

A Minor in Geography is available to students of all majors. It consists of two specific core courses (GEOG 1112k and GEOG 1113k) and at least nine hours of upper-division elective courses. Geography is an interdisciplinary field that bridges both natural and social sciences so this Minor complements many other programs at VSU.  Geography teaches a variety of methods to analyze the natural environment and how it is impacted by humans.  Skills honed in this minor add breadth to students’ preparation for employment in the public or private sector or pursuit of graduate education.

A Minor in Geology is available to students of all majors.  This minor consists of two lower-level courses (GEOL 1121k and GEOL 1122k) as well as Mineralogy (GEOL 3101), Petrology (GEOL 3102) and at least three additional upper-division hours in geology.  Geology is the study of Earth’s materials, their composition, how they change over long spans of time, and ways that humans utilize natural resources.  These courses teach a variety of analytic techniques both in the classroom and in the field.  Skills honed in this minor augment students’ preparation for employment in the public or private sector or pursuit of graduate education.

Valdosta State University’s College of Business Administration is a member of the Georgia WebMBA®. This program offers qualified and highly motivated students the opportunity to earn an accredited Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree. Convenient and affordable, the WebMBA® provides quality instruction in a Web-based virtual setting.

You will work with top business professors from five University System of Georgia institutions. VSU is among five schools listed in U.S. News & World Report's report of online MBAs offered by regionally and professionally accredited business schools. The program also is listed with Business Week Online, World Wide Learn, and geteducated, among others.

The Georgia WebMBA® includes a residential orientation course held during two days at an Atlanta area hotel.

Official language of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Luxembourg, German is the first language of the largest number of citizens of the European Union and a major world language.  High proficiency in the German language and a deep understanding of the richness and diversity of German culture will broaden your horizons and give you a competitive edge on the job market. They will prepare you for successful careers in education, the humanities, foreign service, sciences, and business, to name just a few.

The Gifted In-Field Endorsement enables educators to provide "direct instruction" only in the grade levels and fields of their base certificates. Individuals with this endorsement may serve as a resource teacher for "indirect services" for gifted education in any content area or grade level P-12. Successful completion of the Endorsement for the Talented and Gifted courses leads to the Gifted In-Field Endorsement from the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC)

Degree programs in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education prepare students for professional careers in health and physical education (teacher education). The Master of Education degree (M.Ed.) with a major in health and physical education prepares students to teach health and physical education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. This program gives students a solid foundation in health and physical education both in and out of the classroom. Students engage in invaluable fieldwork, interacting with public school children in a variety of grades and settings. Students have access to a number of technologies, including heart rate monitors, pedometers, LiveText, and various forms of software applicable to public school health and physical education instruction. The graduate teacher education program is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.

The minor in Health and Physical Education is designed to develop your attitudes and behaviors by focusing on current health issues and strategies. It is open to students from any major who are interested in health, physical education, fitness, and wellness. Our program provides coursework that you can utilize to improve your personal health and physical fitness in conjunction with career preparation. It is not designed to meet requirements for Georgia public school certification in health and physical education.

The Master in Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Healthcare Administration (HCAD) [MBA-HCAD] is a 100% distance-based business program designed for administrators in a changing health care environment. Attentive to the specific needs of participants, the program addresses academic and professional expectations of those currently employed in healthcare administration as well as students who seek new careers in the field.

The MBA-HCAD provides training in management, health information technology, healthcare finance, healthcare economics, quantitative methods, health operations management, health law/ethics, and strategic management. Its focus is on business and attaining the necessary skills on leadership to lead and manage people, resources, and services within a healthcare organization.

The healthcare administration minor develops the skills needed to manage the human and fiscal resources of a healthcare facility.  Students who minor in healthcare administration develop decision-making skills needed for planning and coordinating department activities, communication skills essential to effectively working with diverse interest groups, and critical-thinking skills required to comply with government regulations, adhere to health care standards, and implement strategic policy decisions.

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

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

The Human Resources minor provides skills necessary for success in a wide variety of organizations.  Motivating people, communicating effectively, integrating technology, using data, critical thinking, and understanding other cultures prepare students for the demands of the 21st century. The minor in Human Resources allows business majors to gain in-depth knowledge of these areas.

The Instructional Technology & Training (IT2) program is a M.Ed. in Instructional Technology degree with a Corporate Training concentration.  It offers engaging and meaningful educational experiences design specifically for professionals working in, or entering, the corporate training field. 

The M.Ed. in Instructional Technology with a P-12 Technology Applications concentration offers engaging and flexible educational experiences designed to fit the busy schedules of working professionals in a variety of instructional and educational-support fields. Aligned to the GA PSC Instructional Technology standards, completion of the degree and associated GACE exam will prepare you for the GaPSC Service certificate at Level 5 (S-5) in Instructional Technology. Delivered completely online, our program provides practical opportunities to discover how to enhance the learning environment of the students with whom you work.

The P-12 Technology Applications program prepares our students to be technology coaches, coordinators, instructional technologists, or lead teachers with IT knowledge and skills. You will enjoy learning from our quality faculty whose real-world experience and knowledge have been acquired through many years teaching, researching, and working in our field.

The M.Ed. in Instructional Technology/ Library Media is an ALA/AASL recognized degree program in which students gain practical skills and knowledge through incorporation of the American Association of School Librarian standards. Students have opportunities to demonstrate the roles and dispositions of the 21st century school media specialist through class projects, field experiences, and a final internship. Through collaborative and independent experiences, students progress through a series of online courses designed to develop the technological, administrative, and instructional tools needed to effectively serve as a leader, manage a school library, and work as an effective collaborative partner with teachers with the P-12 school setting.

Valdosta State University’s minor in international studies provides students with a fundamental understanding of international studies as an academic field and highlights the dynamics involved in international affairs. Students with minors in international studies also gain valuable exposure to world regions, transnational affairs, or a disciplinary specialty that is international in scope. Students will also have opportunities for undergraduate research, service, experiential learning, and community engagement in the international field.

The programs in the English Department build upon the basic knowledge, skills, and values provided by the University Core Curriculum while preparing students for a wide range of careers as well as for graduate study in numerous fields. The Journalism minor prepares students for careers in print journalism, editing, and in-house news writing. The minor in Journalism at Valdosta State offers courses in writing for newspapers, magazines, sports and features, with opportunities for publication through a close curriculum relationship with the student newspaper, The Spectator.

The Mathematics Endorsement Program for K-5 Teachers is a graduate level online competency-based program designed to strengthen and enhance the content knowledge and pedagogical skills of individuals teaching mathematics in grades K-5. In this project-based program, candidates demonstrate their competence by completing performance-based assessments. Upon mastery of all program-associated competencies, candidates certified in Georgia will be eligible to add the K-5 Mathematics Endorsement to their professional certificate.

The program requires an authentic residency in which candidates further develop their knowledge and skills through real applications in actual elementary classroom settings. These authentic experiences shall occur in candidates’ assigned classrooms, as well as in settings other than candidates’ assigned classrooms to ensure experiences with diverse students and with students in multiple grade level bands.

The identified competencies are organized into three courses (ELED 6010, ELED 6020, and ELED 6030). Each course focuses on a unique area of mathematics (Numbers and Number Systems, Measurement and Geometry, and Algebra, Patterns, Data Analysis and Probability) as well as interdisciplinary mathematics perspectives as defined by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Standards at the K-8 level.  The courses may be taken in any sequence to allow the candidate to align what is being taught in their own classrooms with the content of the course. For more information on certification requirements for this program please contact, Crystal Marshall at cmarshall@valdosta.edu.

The Science Endorsement Program for K-5 Teachers is a graduate level online competency-based program designed to strengthen and enhance the content knowledge and pedagogical skills of individuals teaching science in grades K-5. In this project-based program, candidates demonstrate their competence by completing performance-based assessments. Upon mastery of all program-associated competencies, candidates certified in Georgia will be eligible to add the K-5 Science Endorsement to their professional certificate.

This program requires an authentic residency in which candidates further develop their knowledge and skills through real applications in actual elementary classroom settings. These authentic experiences shall occur in candidates’ assigned classrooms, as well as in settings other than candidates’ assigned classrooms to ensure experiences with diverse students and with students in multiple grade level bands.

The identified competencies are organized into three courses (ELED 6110, ELED 6120, and ELED 6130). Each course focuses on a unique area of elementary science (life, physical, and earth/space) as well as interdisciplinary science perspectives as defined by the National Science Education Standards at the K-8 level. The courses may be taken in any sequence to allow the candidate to align what is being taught in their own classrooms with the content of the course. For more information on certification requirements for this program please contact, Crystal Marshall at cmarshall@valdosta.edu.

The doctoral program in leadership (Ed.D.) develops capable, ethical, and diverse leaders who wish to effectively lead 21st century educational institutions and other organizations. This program connects the knowledge and inquiry skills developed in the core curriculum and research courses to the increasingly complex world of restructuring and organizational improvement. Students work with their academic advisor to select a cognate area that best fits their professional and academic goals. Cognates include: Organizational Leadership, Curriculum Leadership, Technology Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and Special Education Leadership.

Program of Study

• Ed.D. Degree in Leadership Program of Study

The field of library and information science combines the disciplines of traditional library science and technology to meet the needs of today’s ever-changing library system. The Master of Library and Information Science program at Valdosta State University focuses on educating librarians for academic, public and special libraries in Georgia and beyond.

The programs in the English Department build upon the basic knowledge, skills, and values provided by the University Core Curriculum while preparing students for a wide range of careers as well as for graduate study in numerous fields. The Literature and Language minor provides a pre-law and pre-theology education as well as prepares students for graduate study in English.

The MFT program addresses the interpersonal and social context of mental health and emotional problems. The curriculum focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to access and intervene in the interactions among people. It prepares students to use an active, positive approach to therapy that will help individuals and their families build upon their strengths, improve communication, and develop solutions to their problems.

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

Mathematicians study quantity, distance and space with the goal of problem solving, reasoning, making connections and communicating. They advance knowledge by developing new principles and recognizing previously unknown relationships between existing principles of mathematics. Applied mathematicians use mathematical theories and techniques, including mathematical modeling and computational methods, to formulate and solve real-world problems in business, government and engineering, and in the areas of physical, life and social sciences.

Arabic is the fifth most spoken language in the world with 420 million native and non-native speakers.  It is the official language of 28 countries throughout the globe and the liturgical language of Islam.  College graduates who are proficient in Arabic and who have a deep understanding of the richness and diversity of the cultures in the Arab world have many advantages in the workforce and can pursue careers in civil service, intelligence, the military, humanities-related fields, and business, to name just a few.

The M.Ed. in Middle Grades Math and Science is an advanced degree, offering in-service middle grades teachers the opportunity to pursue advanced training in their teaching fields. Current certification in Middle Grades Math and/or Science is required for admission to the degree program, in order for the candidate to be considered for a teaching certificate upgrade. The degree is awarded through the NCATE accredited Dewar College of Education & Human Services at Valdosta State University. Top graduate faculty from Valdosta State University and North Georgia College and State University teach the courses. This 12-course program can be completed in four consecutive semesters – about 16 months - with full-time enrollment. Courses are offered on a continuous basis, allowing for part-time enrollment. All course-work, including exams, is done online. No campus visits are required to complete the program.

Middle grades teachers educate children in the 4th through 8th grade, giving them a solid foundation to continue their studies in high school, instilling them with a love of learning, and helping them gain confidence as they grow into teenagers and young adults. Middle grades education majors pursuing a bachelor’s degree choose two concentrations from the areas of language arts, mathematics, science, reading or social studies and engage in an extensive amount of hands-on teaching. Upon graduation, students are prepared to teach in a number of age-appropriate disciplines within the secondary school system. Several options are available for students pursuing advanced degrees in the discipline.

The Department of Aerospace Studies is the United States Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) detachment at VSU. Students seeking a commission into the active duty Air Force will take classes aimed at developing leadership, fostering teamwork, military history, and understanding the role of the US Air Force in national defense. The academic portion of AFROTC is also open to students who wish to only take the academic component without pursuing a commission.

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

The MAT in Music Education is a full-time fifth-year program beyond the bachelor's degree in which candidates may earn a Masters of Arts in Teaching degree and become eligible for initial certification in Music Education after meeting all program requirements, passing the GACE at the Induction or Professional level, and earning a passing score on the edTPA certification portfolio. The curriculum is designed to produce graduates with exceptional content knowledge and pedagogical expertise who will engage, inspire, and educate P-12 students. The MAT in Music Education program provides preparation in pedagogy and necessary skills to perform as teachers in the P-12 environment. This program prepares students to document and assess student learning outcomes and to be conversant with innovative practices within the field.

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

The Native American Studies minor is committed to an interdisciplinary approach in the study of Native American cultures and their contributions to the global community. The program serves students of Native American descent as well as members of the larger University community. Course offerings include anthropology, art history, history, philosophy, religion, literature, and languages, providing the basis for a greater understanding of Native American cultures.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) play a crucial role in the medical system as clinicians with expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions. NP’s emphasis is on health promotion, management, and disease prevention. They work in a variety of settings including hospitals, health care provider offices, clinics, schools, academia, and other environments in which medical care is rendered. Students in the Valdosta State University MSN program develop critical thinking skills, gain an appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives, and learn how to address policy disputes and social problems related to health care. Upon graduation, Valdosta State MSN students assume leadership in the fields of nursing and health care, making a positive impact on their communities and touching people’s lives every day.

Nutritional science is an academic discipline that offers an intellectual approach to the study of nutrition as it contributes to health promotion by primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. The study of nutritional science provides accurate assessments of the roles of functional foods and nutrients as they affect and are affected by humans’ intellectual, biological, psychological, social, cultural, environmental, economic, and spiritual being. This minor includes the integration of holistic health concepts with alternative and complementary healing practices and contemporary medical regimes. This minor offers students the opportunity to explore research demonstrating the importance of nutritional balance (variety, moderation, and activity) to quality of life and holistic health. The nutritional status of Americans is compared and contrasted to other environments and cultures around the globe. The minor encourages the acquisition of practical experiences, the development of intellectual expertise in various aspects of nutritional science, and initiation of creative interventions to facilitate and motivate behavioral changes related to nutritional problems and diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and osteoporosis.

The Online Teaching Endorsement program prepares candidates to plan, design, and deliver instruction in online environments for learners in P-12 settings. The endorsement is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GPSC) and is available for candidates who already hold a valid teaching certificate. The add-on endorsement is based on successful completion of three courses, successful completion of a field-based practicum, and evidence of accomplishment of all items on an Online Teaching Endorsement Competency Checklist.

Philosophy is the discipline of learning about different ways of life and gaining an appreciation for the richness of culture. Religious studies focuses on the diversity of religious thought and practice from multicultural perspectives. Students in these two disciplines at Valdosta State University develop critical and objective thinking skills, become clear and effective writers and persuasive speakers, hone their organizational and analytical skills, and expand their political awareness.

Physics is a foundation science concerned with space, time, matter, energy, gravitation, electromagnetism, light, atoms, nuclei and the fundamental forces of the universe. Famous physicists such as Albert Einstein and Sir Isaac Newton responsible for some of the most profound scientific discoveries in history, and the discipline continues to produce great thinkers who uncover the inner-workings of the universe. The physics program at Valdosta State University helps students achieve their dreams of in the discipline and prepares them for careers in the field and for further graduate studies.

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

A minor in Professional and Applied Ethics provides students with skills for critical and objective thinking, clear and effective writing skills, the ability to present a convincing case, organizational & analytical skills, and political awareness.

The programs in the English Department build upon the basic knowledge, skills, and values provided by the University Core Curriculum while preparing students for a wide range of careers as well as for graduate study in numerous fields. The Professional Writing minor prepares students for graduate study as well as careers in law, business, advertising, and publishing. The Professional Writing minor emphasizes the importance of critical thinking skills, encourages an appreciation of diverse cultural perspectives, and develops a greater understanding of the cognitive, emotive, and aesthetic dimensions of language as an avenue of self-knowledge, cultural understanding, and social responsibility while providing the necessary skills to write for professional publication.

A minor in psychology can be an excellent academic supplement to many majors at VSU or if a student wants to apply to graduate school in psychology. Please contact the department for assistance in selecting courses most appropriate for your needs.

To complete a minor in Psychology, PSYC 1101 is required along with 15 additional hours of PSYC courses. All courses selected for the minor must be completed with a grade of “C” or better, with a Psychology minor GPA of 2.50 or higher. At least 9 of the 18 hours must be taken at Valdosta State University.

Since the inception of the I-O Program at VSU in 1984, our students have had a high success rate in acquiring jobs in human resources, research, and human services. Part of the success of our students can be attributed to the opportunities provided by on-site practicum experiences. Students have served as human-resource interns with local, regional, national, and international organizations in manufacturing, human services, health care, civil service, banking, and government contracting. The opportunity for on-site experience is further enhanced by VSU's Office of Cooperative Education.

Students and faculty in the I-O program staff Azalea Consulting, a vibrant consultation service that assists regional companies, non-profit organizations, and governmental agencies to solve critical administrative issues. Students learn to assist organizations with the creation, implementation, and evaluation of core functions such as strategic planning, HR development, personnel selection, and job analysis. Students and faculty work together to strategically solve workplace challenges using the latest technology and data resources, combined with a creative and collaborative approach.

Each student is required to complete 45 semester-hours for the Master of Science degree in I-O Psychology. These requirements include 6 credit hours of on-site practicum experience. Completion of a master’s thesis is optional, but recommended for those preparing for doctoral study.

The DPA a practitioner-based terminal degree designed for those wanting to advance their careers in government, non-profits, or non-government organizations (NGOs). Coursework further enhances the essential leadership, management, communication, and problem-solving skills required in today’s professional environment.

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is a non-thesis program. Applicants for admission to the MPA program are considered for acceptance regardless of their undergraduate degree area. This program is designed to allow in-service professionals the opportunity to meet the degree requirements in a swift, convenient manner. The MPA is offered in three concentrations: Public Sector Management, Public Sector Human Resource Management, and Public Policy. The Public Sector Management and Public Policy concentrations are offered fully online, while the Public Sector Human Resource Management is offered in a traditional setting at the Moody Air Force Base Campus.

In a fundamental sense, public administration involves the implementation of government policies. As an academic discipline, public administration trains students to become effective leaders responsible for implementing policies in any type of public or private organization. Students in the public administration program at Valdosta State University learn administrative skills that may be used in a variety of administrative careers and settings in both the public and private sectors.

The Reading Endorsement is an online program specifically for PreK-12 classroom teachers wishing to add expertise to their current State of Georgia Teacher Certification. The endorsement is designed to help meet the literacy needs of the students, regardless of content area. The program meets the competencies required by the Professional Standards Commission’s Georgia Reading Endorsement. Emphases include understanding readers and the reading process, linking assessment and instruction, and exploring specific instructional strategies that can be applied in individual classroom contexts.

Recreation and leisure is a thriving industry with phenomenal growth, tremendous potential, and diverse career paths. Nearly 300 million Americans work, go to school, complete tasks to maintain their family and still work to find time to participate in some form of recreation. When Americans stop for recreational activities, they typically spend about 4.5 to 5 hours each day engaging in those activities. In the future, Americans are likely to demand more from their free time and more from government offices, businesses, and agencies to provide opportunities for recreation and leisure. A variety of organizations and individuals are needed to engage in recreational programming and provide leisure activities, which is why earning a minor in Recreation and Leisure will lead you down an exciting career path.

Philosophy is the discipline of learning about different ways of life and gaining an appreciation for the richness of culture. Religious studies focuses on the diversity of religious thought and practice from multicultural perspectives. Students in these two disciplines at Valdosta State University develop critical and objective thinking skills, become clear and effective writers and persuasive speakers, hone their organizational and analytical skills, and expand their political awareness.

Social workers help individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities restore and enhance their capacity for social functioning. Social Workers care about their fellow citizens, want to help people improve their situations and strive to make a positive difference in people’s lives. The social work program at Valdosta State University prepares students for clinical practice and licensure in social work and produces graduates who are qualified to practice with diverse populations in multiple settings.

Sociology is a social science that involves the study of human society. Sociologists examine aspects of society and social behavior, including cultures, social institutions, groups and more. Anthropology also involves the study of people but focuses on humans and their immediate ancestors. Anthropologists examine patterns of culture and behavior in order to understand human diversity in the present and past. Students in the sociology and anthropology undergraduate program have the unique opportunity to take core classes in both disciplines, then select a concentration in either applied and clinical sociology or anthropology. The graduate program focuses on applied sociology, a field in which sociological knowledge is used to analyze real-world situations.

Sociology is a social science that involves the study of human society. Sociologists examine aspects of society and social behavior, including cultures, social institutions, groups and more. Anthropology also involves the study of people but focuses on humans and their immediate ancestors. Anthropologists examine patterns of culture and behavior in order to understand human diversity in the present and past. Students in the sociology and anthropology undergraduate program have the unique opportunity to take core classes in both disciplines, then select a concentration in either applied and clinical sociology or anthropology. The graduate program focuses on applied sociology, a field in which sociological knowledge is used to analyze real-world situations.

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

This online graduate program is an initial certification program for teachers who are employed in P-12 classrooms serving students with significant disabilities. The program focuses on increasing teachers’ knowledge and skills in implementing evidence-based interventions to positively impact the learning and behavior of their P-12 learners.

The Department of Middle, Secondary, Reading & Deaf Education offers a 5th year Master of Education (M.Ed.) program for students graduating from the VSU Undergraduate Program of the same name. Valdosta State University students with B.S.Ed. pre-professional degree in deaf and hard-of-hearing have the option to do a fifth year master’s program to earn initial certification. Majors in special education/deaf education demonstrate content knowledge through passing the state required content assessment in deaf education. Students in this graduate program will demonstrate skills in assessment, instructional strategies, use of technology and monitoring/ modifying instruction during observed teaching episodes evaluated by a university supervisor and P-12 mentor teacher

Majors in special education/deaf education demonstrate content knowledge through passing the state required content assessment in deaf education. Students in this graduate program will demonstrate skills in assessment, instructional strategies, use of technology and monitoring/modifying instruction during observed teaching episodes evaluated by a university supervisor and P-12 mentor teacher. This is an online program.

This online graduate program is an initial certification program for teachers who are employed in P-12 classrooms serving students with mild to moderate disabilities. The program focuses on increasing teachers’ knowledge and skills in implementing evidence-based interventions to positively impact the learning and behavior of their P-12 learners.

Practitioners of theatre arts, whether they perform on stage or work behind the scenes, bring stories to life, entertain and inspire. The theatre arts major at Valdosta State University is an all-encompassing program that embraces various aspects of theatre, including theatre performance, theatre production and musical theatre. The program is designed to develop the skills, craft and imagination of students, in addition to providing them with a strong background in the history of theatre.

A Women's and Gender Studies (WGST) minor prepares students for life, work, and service in the 21st century. Students learn from women’s history, feminist theory, and gender analytics, how gender as a form of cultural identity shapes human thought, experience, expectations and interactions. Courses in the WGST minor focus on the historical and contemporary experiences of women as well as other populations vulnerable because of race, class, gender, or sexual identity often regarded in the mainstream as unconventional. Employers and graduate schools are actively seeking candidates who understand the positive value of diversity. Alumni minors report many practical applications of what they learn in their WGST coursework, field work, service learning projects and internships.