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College of Letters and Science - Columbus State University

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Academics

College of Letters and Science

The College of Letters and Sciences is the largest and most academically diverse college in the university. There are 11 departments and over 110 full-time faculty members offering a wide variety of programs ranging from certificates to masters degrees. We have over 35 different degree program and more are under development.

The vision of the College of Letters and Sciences is to provide high quality programs that engage students, further their dedication to our disciplines, increase their competitiveness in the job market, and help them become responsible citizens.

As a mission the College of Letters and Sciences will provide Columbus State University graduates with undergraduate experiences in the liberal arts and sciences that render them effective citizens, to prepare them for admission and success in graduate programs and for employment and to provide quality graduate instruction in disciplines useful to sensible development and sustainable quality living in our service region and beyond; to provide our faculty with the tools for continued professional development keeping them leaders in their respective fields of endeavor; to provide small class opportunities to keep students better engaged in the learning process; and to support outreach programs designed to give citizens or our region appreciation and understanding of the disciplines represented in our college.

The faculty in the College of Letters and Sciences takes pride in providing hands-on learning experiences for students that blend academic rigor with practical applications. Our students are active in undergraduate research & creative inquiry. They have explored the unique geological terrain of our region, examined the literary works of the masters, researched mathematical cryptography, and traveled abroad.

Department of Biology

The Department of Biology has a friendly atmosphere, with outgoing faculty who teach, advise and collaborate with students to help them meet their goals. In biology courses, "learn by doing" is the guiding philosophy, and biology majors use cutting-edge techniques in classrooms with state-of-the-art equipment. The university is located in a region of the Southeast that affords numerous opportunities in environmental biology. Biology majors are also individually advised by faculty members, who guide students through their coursework and help them plan for careers or professional schools after graduation. Many biology majors also work with faculty on research projects. Such experiences enrich the academic careers of students, and many biology majors have won awards for their research at regional or national scientific meetings. In addition, several biology clubs give students opportunities to hear and meet experts in biology from outside the university, as well as socialize and engage in volunteer activities throughout the community.

As its mission, the Department of Biology at Columbus State University is concerned with:

  • undergraduate education and research in biology
  • graduate courses in biology and science education, and graduate research in environmental science
  • service to our geographic region in biology science education and environmental science
  • sustenance of a community of scholars engaged in developing the ways of knowing, habits of the mind, and operational skills characteristic of capable biologists

The Bachelor of Arts (BA), BA, Secondary Education Track and Bachelor of Science (BS) majors in biology include a wide spectrum of exciting subjects. By graduation, Biology majors are broadly prepared for a variety of opportunities. Many move onto to graduate schools or professional schools in health-related fields. Others attain immediate employment, in an array of industries or the public sector. The Department of Biology also offers a valuable minor that enhances employment opportunities for students.

The BA degree in biology is designed for students who wish to exercise more control over the development of their degree program. Such students may wish to combine studies in biology with additional preparation in another academic field. The BA degree can also assist students seeking admission into dental or medical school if they add a number of the courses already required in the BS program. Students selecting the BA degree must complete a minor, an approved minor equivalent or the Secondary Education Track.

The BS degree in biology represents the most appropriate preparation for those who wish to pursue post-graduate studies. The curriculum is built on a strong core of science courses that explore the breadth of biology. The BS program requires each student to complete an undergraduate research project or experiential internship program. Students who are interested in entering graduate school, dental school, medical school, or a school of veterinary medicine, or who want a comprehensive biology background should seriously consider the BS degree.

In order to declare a major in biology, a student is required to have an overall GPA (including grades earned at other institutions) of 2.5 (without rounding up). Students must also have completed the following coursework prior to admittance into any of the junior-level core courses: Chemistry 1211, 1211L, 1212, 1212L; two additional laboratory science courses; Area A and Area D mathematics courses. Students must receive a grade of "C" or better for all classes required in the major(areas F and G). Classes with grades lower than a C cannot be used to satisfy prerequisite requirements for courses required in the major. To complete a degree in biology, students must obtain a minimum overall grade point average of 2.0 in all science courses applied to graduation.

In addition to general advising of BS and BA students, special academic advising is provided for students with pre-professional concentrations, such as pre-medicine, pre-veterinary medicine, pre-pharmacy and the track in Secondary Education.

To officially declare a concentration in pre-dentistry, pre-medicine, or pre-veterinary medicine, an entering student must have:

  • a minimum SAT total score of 1000 or a minimum ACT composite score of 22
  • a minimum high school grade point average of 3.00
  • completed college preparatory curriculum requirements (Georgia high school graduates)

Students not meeting these requirements may meet with pre-medical advisors for advice, but will be officially assigned to BA or BS advisors until they have:

  • completed 30 semester hours
  • completed CHEM 1211, CHEM 1212 (including labs), COMM 1110, and MATH 1127
  • maintained a minimum institutional grade point average of 3.00

Pre-veterinary medicine students must pursue the BS in biology; students with concentrations in pre-dentistry or pre-medicine may pursue either the BA or BS in biology.

A special advisor has also been assigned to work with biology majors with a pre-pharmacy concentration. Some students complete a four-year degree while others transfer to a pharmacy school after two or three years. There are no additional academic criteria for entrance into this concentration, as the admission requirements for pharmacy schools differ.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key concepts, principles, theories, and methods in four core areas: cell biology; molecular biology and genetics; organismal biology; and population biology, evolution, and ecology.
  • employ critical and analytical thinking in application of the scientific method, including formulating and testing hypotheses, designing experiments, analyzing data, interpreting results, and drawing conclusions.
  • report orally and in writing research results and conclusions according to accepted standards of professional biologists.
  • demonstrate knowledge of standards of professional and ethical conduct in biology.
  • demonstrate knowledge of careers in biology.

Department of Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry will evolve in directions which best serve the needs of our students and the regional community. Department activities are presently oriented toward undergraduate education in the physical sciences and engineering. However, we are committed to growth and expansion of the range of available services by development of the department into a center of the following:

  • undergraduate education in the chemical, geological, and physical sciences and engineering
  • graduate education in the chemical and earth sciences
  • graduate education in environmental science
  • consulting and advisory services for commercial and governmental concerns
  • pure and applied research within the departmental disciplines, focusing on the particular needs and features of the region
  • undergraduate education producing highly qualified certified teachers of Earth and Space Science
  • providing breadth of graduate education in the sciences for masters in education candidates

Chemistry

The baccalaureate degree programs in chemistry are designed to offer students a solid background in general, organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry as well as exposure to applied chemistry, biochemistry, spectroscopy, and instrumental analysis. Graduates are expected to appreciate both qualitative and quantitative interpretation, to think independently, and to apply skills and knowledge of chemistry to real-world problems. Because of the diverse goals of chemistry students, and needs of the region, four degree programs are available: (1) Bachelor of Arts (BA), (2) Bachelor of Arts and Secondary Education (BAED), (3) Bachelor of Science: Applied Track (BS), (4) Bachelor of Science: Professional Track (BS), Bachelor of Science: Forensics Track degrees.

BA in Chemistry - The Bachelor of Arts degree program is designed for students interested in attending professional schools of medicine, dentistry or pharmacy. In addition to the general degree requirements, the BA in Chemistry requires satisfactory completion of courses in mathematics, physics, and biology. These provide a broad foundation in the field and permit flexibility for evolving and changing student interests. A broad range of upper-level elective courses exists to expose students to modern fields within the chemical sciences and to help students broaden their college experience.

BA in Chemistry and Secondary Education –The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Secondary Education degree program is offered in collaboration with the College of Education and Health Professions. This program is designed for students interested in teaching chemistry at secondary level and/or pursuing graduate studies in chemical education/science education. In addition to the general degree requirements, the BA in Chemistry and Secondary Education requires satisfactory completion of courses in chemistry, mathematics and physics, as well as in education. The BAED curriculum provides a broad foundation in the field of chemistry and education and prepares graduates to teach chemistry at middle and/or high schools. A broad range of upper-level elective courses in chemistry exists to expose students to modern fields within the chemical sciences and to help students broaden their understanding of science teacher education. Moreover, students are sufficiently prepared to pursue graduate studies in chemical education/science education.

BS in Chemistry: Applied Track - This program is recommended for entry level positions in industry and government laboratories. In addition to the general degree requirements, the BS in chemistry requires satisfactory completion of courses in chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics. These provide a broad foundation in the field and permit flexibility for evolving and changing student interests. A broad range of upper-level elective courses exists to expose students to modern techniques within the chemical sciences and to help students expand their college experience.

BS in Chemistry: Professional Track - This program is recommended for students who desire to pursue graduate studies in chemistry or related fields. The program also prepares students for entry level positions in industry and government laboratories. In addition to the general degree requirements, the BS in chemistry requires satisfactory completion of courses in chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics. The professional track also enables students to gain substantial research experience through independent study and senior seminar courses under the guidance and mentorship of faculty members. The program provides a sound foundation in the field of chemistry and permits flexibility for evolving and changing student interests. A broad range of upper-level elective courses exists to expose students to modern techniques within the chemical sciences and to help students expand their college experience.

BS in Chemistry: Forensics Track - This program is recommended for entry level positions in forensics chemistry laboratory. In addition to the general degree requirements, the BS in chemistry requires satisfactory completion of courses in chemistry, criminal justice, computer science, mathematics, and physics. These provide a broad foundation in the field and permit flexibility for evolving and changing student interests. A broad range of upper-level elective courses exists to expose students to modern techniques in chemistry and chemical forensics to help students expand their college experience. The degree includes a core chemistry curriculum combined with courses in chemistry and criminal justice. Curriculum emphasizes evidence collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of physical evidence.

The mission of the Chemistry division of the Department of Chemistry at Columbus State University is:

  • to provide students with a thorough undergraduate education in the fundamental principles of chemistry which will enable them to compete in a global society
  • to prepare students for graduate and/or professional schools
  • to prepare students for teaching careers in chemistry in Georgia and beyond
  • to prepare students for research/technical careers in the chemical industry in the region and beyond
  • to promote science education in the local community and beyond
  • to provide service to our geographic region in the chemical sciences through university-community partnerships

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

  • demonstrate knowledge of the diverse areas of chemistry, both theoretical and practical
  • communicate the rapidly changing field of chemical knowledge effectively
  • estimate and interpret chemical information in the context of the day-to-day events
  • demonstrate skills in quantitative and qualitative problem-solving related to the chemical sciences
  • demonstrate theoretical knowledge of chemical instrumentation, including the operation of microprocessor controlled instruments
  • integrate the usage of computers in chemistry
  • think independently and apply chemical knowledge to a problem
  • demonstrate knowledge of safety methodologies used in the chemical laboratory
  • enter into employment in the chemical industry or into graduate or professional schools

Department of Criminal Justice and Sociology

Criminal Justice

The Department of Criminal Justice offers a one-year professional certificate, which is tailored to meet the needs of in-service criminal justice personnel. Certificate students are reminded that the certificate program does not guarantee admission to either the associate or the bachelor degree programs, and that they will be assigned to the current catalog requirements as of the date when they change from certificate to degree programs. Additionally, certificate students who are admitted to a degree program must immediately satisfy core requirements and Regents Exam requirements.

The Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice (AASCJ) degree is designed for students who are seeking a degree that will meet the minimum educational requirements of various law enforcement agencies for entry and/or promotion. All criminal justice majors are strongly encouraged to take and complete the associate degree in criminal justice before taking any bachelor degree criminal justice courses.

The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree enables students to demonstrate a general knowledge of law enforcement, legal research, corrections, and criminology. Students must take a minimum of thirty-nine (39) semester hours in CRJU courses in residence at Columbus State University.

Maximum credit for Professional Training/Academies will be twelve (12) semester hours in the associate and/or bachelor degrees.

Students in degree programs are reminded that evening students may have to take some courses during the day to complete degree requirements.

Graduates of the criminal justice program find secure jobs with local, state, and federal government agencies such as city and state police, sheriffs' departments, probation and parole departments, Georgia and Federal Bureaus of Investigation, drug enforcement agencies, the Secret Service, correctional institutions, juvenile justice agencies, and private industrial security.

Information on the Master of Public Administration degree with the justice administration option may be found in the Political Science section of this catalog.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to demonstrate knowledge of:

  • principles of criminal justice systems
  • knowledge of law enforcement organization and procedures
  • skills of legal research and analysis
  • concepts of punishment and rehabilitation in the context of correctional systems
  • major theories of criminal behavior

BS graduates also will be able to demonstrate and apply knowledge about each of the above by passing the department exit exam.

Sociology

Sociology concentrates on the scientific study of social interactions and their consequences. Few other fields have such a scope and relevance for research, theory, and application of knowledge. The CSU Sociology program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to educate students about a broad range of topics in the study of sociology leading to the Bachelor of Science degree. Since the subject matter of sociology is people and human behavior, sociologists investigate the structure and interactions of groups, organizations, and societies. Examples of areas of study include race, social class, and gender, the family, crime, prejudice and discrimination, development, religion, group behavior, work and organizations, social theory, and social research.

Students graduating with a degree in sociology are able to recognize trends and patterns, create reports, have strong skills in critical thinking, interpersonal communications, research and data analysis, planning and organizing, and management. Sociology graduates with a bachelor's degree find employment in many fields including advertising, marketing, education, health services, hospitals, corrections, health and social services, and state and local governments.

Our program provides opportunities for motivated and capable students to work closely with faculty in research, often leading to student presentations at local and regional conferences. The department also sponsors the Sociology Club for interested students. Our faculty are dedicated to student success and provide the individual attention that is crucial for that success.

The following are the expected learning outcomes for students completing an undergraduate degree in sociology at CSU:

  • Students will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of the discipline of sociology and its role in contributing to an understanding of social reality by defining its object of study and by listing the major goals of sociological analysis.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of core sociological concepts and processes.
  • Students will be able to discuss the relationships between the micro and the macro levels, i.e., between the individual, culture and society.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role of theory in sociology by describing its major theorists and major theoretical schools.
  • Students will be able to describe the major sociological research methods.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate the basic computer skills necessary for conducting sociological research and for applying sociological knowledge through data analysis and the presentation of sociological data.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the reciprocal relationship between individuals and society.
  • Students will be able to discuss in depth the following specialty areas in sociology: diversity of ethnicity, gender, sexual preference, and sociocultural systems; social problems such as crime and deviance, socioeconomic inequality, poverty and social stratification, and deterioration of contemporary ecosystems; and various processes of sociocultural evolution and change.
  • Students will be able to recognize, understand, and effectively communicate the complexity of cultural diversity in local and global society.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate critical thinking skills.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of social policy and applications of sociological theory to the resolution of social problems.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate familiarity with the process of planning and implementing problem solving to bring about social change.

Earth and Space Sciences

Geology
Pre-Engineering Program
Environmental Science

Geology

The baccalaureate degree programs in geology prepare graduates for entry into the practice of professional geology, the teaching of Earth Science or Geology, or as preparatory education for graduate study in related fields such as environmental science, regional planning, or further studies in science education. The location of the University allows opportunities for extensive field research and learning experiences within three physiographic provinces. This proximity to such important geologic features allows field work to become an integral part of many courses and is a strength of the department. Faculty work closely with students to ensure their academic success. The BS in Geology curriculum qualifies graduates to meet the introductory requirements for licensing with the Georgia Board of Registration for Professional Geologists. The BS in Geology requires satisfactory completion of courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, as well as in geology. These provide a broad foundation in the field and permit flexibility for evolving and changing student interests. The BS in Geology and Secondary Education includes coursework required for teacher certification in addition to coursework providing a comprehensive background in the geosciences. Our program is NCATE accredited and one of few in the state to provide this depth of training for teachers in secondary earth science.

The diverse experience of the faculty allows a range of upper-level elective courses to be offered that introduce students to various sub-fields within the geological sciences and expand their college experience. Some courses are offered every other year; therefore, careful planning of an individual student's program is necessary

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the BS in Geology program will be able to:

  • demonstrate a working knowledge of the major areas of geology (mineralogy, petrology, paleontology, stratigraphy, structural geology, environmental geology, and geomorphology)
  • communicate geological concepts, data, and interpretations to others
  • demonstrate knowledge and apply field observations, traditional techniques, and modern technology to the solution of geologic aspects of problems in regional planning and the environment as well as traditional geologic problems (use appropriate data bases, software, and analytical tools)
  • demonstrate ability to assemble diverse geologic data into environmental, economic, and regional geologic interpretations
  • perform the tasks requested in entry level geologic employment or graduate school

Graduates of the BS Geology and Secondary Education program will be able to:

  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of many of the major areas of geology (mineralogy, petrology, paleontology, stratigraphy, and environmental geology)
  • Demonstrate breadth of knowledge in a range of geologically related physical sciences
  • Apply course related field work to lesson planning involving the relevant Georgia Performance Standards
  • Demonstrate appropriate use of tools or technology commonly used in the study of geological or related sciences
  • correctly interpret and demonstrate appropriate use of geological and related data such as maps, charts, tables, graphs
  • Relate the importance of geologic data to environmental, economic, and regional concerns
  • Reason thoughtfully about scientific matters and the nature of science
  • Demonstrate proficiency in instructional planning
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the implementation of instruction
  • Demonstrate proficiencies related to helping every student succeed
  • Demonstrate proficiencies related to selecting and using materials to enhance teaching and learning
  • Demonstrate proficiencies related to evaluating learning and teaching
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of findings of educational research related to the teaching and learning of science
  • Display values, commitments, dispositions and habits associated with effective and professional teaching

The Pre-Engineering Program

The pre-engineering program is designed to provide a liberal education and to develop a broad scientific and technical foundation for future specialization. Two programs are available:

  • Regents' Engineering Transfer Program (RETP) and
  • General Pre-Engineering Program (GPEP).

Upon successful completion of the pre-engineering curriculum, RETP students transfer to Georgia Tech and work toward completing a bachelor of engineering degree, while GPEP students may apply to any engineering school in the nation of their choice, including Georgia Tech. It is expected that students will normally require four to five and one-half years to complete the degree requirements, depending on their pre-college preparation and engineering major, as with any other engineering school graduates. Students entering the pre-engineering program can be prepared for specialization in aerospace, ceramic, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, industrial, materials, mechanical, nuclear and textile engineering.

To be admitted to the Regents' Engineering Transfer Program at Columbus State University, a student must be a resident of Georgia, with a combined SAT score of at least 1090 (including a 560 math and 530 verbal score). Students who do not initially qualify for RETP when entering may join the RETP after the end of their freshmen year by completing the first two required chemistry courses and calculus 1 and 2 with grades of 3.0 ("B") or higher, and by attaining a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

Columbus State University faculty members have been working closely with Georgia Tech faculty to assure a curriculum that is well coordinated with that of Georgia Tech. At the same time, RETP students enjoy many of the advantages of Georgia Tech students: they have equal access to engineering majors at Georgia Tech, they can participate in the co-op program, and they are invited to the Georgia Tech campus once a year for campus tours, information sessions, and meeting with advisors in their engineering major.

Environmental Science

Masters Program in Environmental Science

The Master of Science in Environmental Science program is designed to prepare graduates to deal effectively with scientific challenges related to environmental restoration, maintenance and management in the face of growing populations and industry. The program builds on an undergraduate science background and provides a foundation in pertinent areas of biology, chemistry, and geology, and archaeology, as well as social and philosophical issues related to the development of sound environmental policy and regulation.

Statement of Mission

The graduate degree program in Environmental Science provides advanced education and training to post-baccalaureate students living primarily in the Georgia/Alabama region. Graduates of the program are trained to serve as environmental professionals in the private sector as environmental consultants; in local, state, and federal environmental agencies; or to enter doctorial programs in environmental science or related fields. Primary emphasis is placed on acquiring a sound background in the underpinning concepts of environmental science and developing a wide range of knowledge in environmental issues.

Students may elect to pursue one of two different educational options in environmental science. The thesis-track option places emphasis on both acquisition of a broad background of environmental knowledge and ecological methods as well as on developing research skills necessary to design and conduct original research. It also stresses communication skills necessary to present research results in both oral and written forms. The intention is to develop those abilities which allow our graduates to become productive environmental scientists and educators. The non-thesis track option stresses a broadly-based background in environmental science in order to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consulting in industrial and governmental fields.

Admission

Minimum admission requirements for the MS program in environmental science are as follows:

  • Students must hold a baccalaureate degree in one of the natural sciences or engineering from an accredited college or university, or permission of the director of the program.
  • Students must have earned an undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.00 on a 4.0 scale, calculated on all work attempted in which letter grades were awarded.
  • Students must present evidence of a minimum score of 1000 on the verbal and quantitative (aptitude test) of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Applications can be obtained from the Office of Graduate Admissions, Columbus State University, 4225 University Avenue, Columbus, GA 31907-5645

Provisional Admission

Students who have earned an appropriate baccalaureate degree, but whose undergraduate grade point average is lower than 3.0 or whose Graduate Record Examination (GRE) aptitude tests score is lower than 1000, will be given consideration by the graduate admissions committee of the College of Letters and Sciences and may be admitted provisionally.

Provisional students may be given specific coursework or independent study requirements in order to make up deficiencies but must complete a minimum of 10 semester hours of program core courses with a grade of "B" or better. Provisional students will not be eligible for teaching or research assistantships until they have obtained regular admission to the program.

Program Policies

Upon entering the Environmental Science graduate program, the student will be assigned an advisor. This advisor will assist the student in choosing courses and schedules that will best fit the student's interests and goals. The student may change his or her advisor after the first semester. The choice of thesis or non-thesis should be made in consultation with the advisor as soon as possible.

If a student has taken one or more of the program's core courses as an undergraduate, he or she will substitute courses from the program's elective courses in consultation with their advisor.

Thesis track students are required to complete 20 hours of specific program core courses, 10 hours of program electives and 6 hours of research. The student in consultation with his or her advisor will select, by the end of the first semester, two other faculty members to serve, along with the advisor, as a graduate committee. The purpose of the graduate committee is to guide and assist the student's thesis research. In consultation with the advisor, one member of the graduate committee may be chosen from faculty in other units of the University or from other institutions. The thesis is to be a significant original contribution in environmental science. The topic must be approved by the student's graduate committee in advance of the beginning of the thesis research. When the thesis is completed, the student will present the work in a public forum and will defend the work before the graduate committee.

Non-thesis track students are required to complete 24 hours of program core courses and 12 hours of program electives. The student in consultation with his or her advisor will select, by the end of the first semester, two other faculty members to serve, along with the advisor, as a graduate committee. The purpose of the graduate committee is to guide selection of elective courses to best match the student's goals.

Coarse Load. The maximum recommended course load for a graduate student in the School of Letters and Science in a given semester is 12 semester hours. The maximum course load for a student holding a graduate assistantship is 9 semester hours.

Department of English

Why is the Department of English so special?

  • More English majors participate in study abroad than any other major.
  • In a recent university-wide survey, the English department tied for first place in student satisfaction of advisors and advising practices.
  • Graduates have almost unlimited career opportunities-from jobs in editing, writing, teaching, business (as corporate trainers, for example), public relations, and everything in between; to preparation for law school and master's and doctoral programs.
  • Classes in the major are typically limited to 18 students (writing lab classes) or 24 students (literature classes) and are taught by full-time faculty.
  • The Carson McCullers Center and Museum, named for Columbus author Carson McCullers, frequently serves as an off-campus site for poetry readings, meetings, and get-togethers.
  • Majors can join Sigma Tau Delta, the English honorary, and work as tutors at the CSU Writing Center.

What do English majors learn or know that make them so special? They have

  • The ability to express ideas in writing.
  • The ability to read critically.
  • An awareness of the interrelations between literature and other disciplines.
  • Knowledge of the principal genres and periods of literature.
  • The ability to apply research skills.
  • An understanding of the history and structure of language and its role in the human experience.

The Department of English offers the following degrees and concentrations (or tracks) in English:

  • BA in English, literature concentration
  • BA in English, professional writing concentration
  • BA in English, creative writing concentration
  • BA in English and Secondary Education

All tracks offer courses of study designed to cultivate in students an appreciation for the power of language, while developing reading, research, writing, and analytical skills that are invaluable to any career. English majors study one foreign language through the 2002 level and take an exit survey to complete their degree.

Students in the BA in English-Literature track study British and American writers, and may follow their interests into literary criticism, linguistics, world literature, African-American literature, women writers, film, and creative writing. This track provides groundwork for students planning to go to graduate or professional school in the humanities, education, law, or any field that requires the skills and thoughtfulness that students of literature develop.

The BA in English-Professional Writing track prepares students for writing careers in business or industry. The track offers courses in technical writing, news writing, desktop publishing, and business writing. Internships with Columbus-area organizations provide students with valuable hands-on experience. Professional writing students develop strong skills in electronic research, writing, layout, web design, and editing.

With the BA in English-Creative Writing track, students explore various kinds of creative writing (poetry, fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, playwriting) and then develop their talents to a higher level with advanced courses: advanced poetry writing, advanced fiction writing, advanced creative nonfiction writing, and scriptwriting, among others. Students cap off their undergraduate studies by completing a creative thesis of publishable quality.

The BA in English and Secondary Education prepares students for teacher certification and a career in teaching. With a shortage of English teachers in Georgia and elsewhere around the nation, students in this track typically find jobs quickly. Complementing this track, the department offers courses to satisfy Georgia requirements for an endorsement (to teacher certification) for English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL).

In addition, the department offers minors in English (Literature), English (Professional Writing), English (Creative Writing), and Linguistics as well as a certificate program in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). The department also offers a certificate in Professional Writing, open to all majors and all degree students as well as non-degree students.

To find out more, contact Dr. Barbara Hunt (department chair) in WDL 152 by emailing her at hunt_barbara @columbusstate.edu or phoning her at 706-565-4056.

General Studies

The Associate in Science (AS) in General Studies is designed for students who wish to complete a two-year general education degree. This degree program is not major or career specific; therefore, students should consult carefully with academic advisors and career counselors to identify areas of interest, aptitude, and opportunities for future employment.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

  • Communicate effectively by means of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the diverse situations encountered as educated citizens; and be able to effectively communicate using appropriate symbolic technological systems.
  • Think with a deliberate awareness of the process of critical thinking, employ the process, and strive to augment its effectiveness.
  • Interpret aesthetic significance in an object, work, performance, or experience through study or participation.
  • Apply appropriate knowledge to the interpretation of current problems and related issues concerning environment, health, society, culture, religion, economics, politics, science, and technology.
  • Develop informed judgments about the past by gathering relevant information, by placing it in context, by interpreting it, and by using it to draw inferences about contemporary events.
  • Use mathematical skills to solve problems and to interpret quantitative information.
  • Observe and interpret phenomena in a systematic fashion consistent with recognized principles of scientific inquiry.
  • Investigate ethics and personal values and those of others; be able to analyze interactions between value systems and cultural systems; and be able to distinguish prejudices, stereotypes, opinions, facts, and cross-cultural contributions.
  • Participate in extra-curricular, service, or leadership activity during the course of completing an undergraduate education.

Department of History and Geography

History is the study of the human experience across time, space, and cultures. Historical interpretation, methodology and analysis help students reason systematically and examine critically people and events in the past as well as social, political, and cultural forces and their interaction within societies and among cultures. As academic disciplines, human geography and history offer students, colleagues, and the community methods to reach thoughtful judgments about human affairs.

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History equips students with the communication, research and analytical skills that are necessary for success in the twenty-first century. History graduates can expect to have successful careers in business, administration, journalism, religious ministry, and education. With additional professional or graduate study, they may enter the legal profession or find employment at research institutes, universities and colleges.

The BA in History and Secondary Education prepares the student for teacher certification and a career in teaching.

The department also offers minors in History and Geography.

Requirements. Students seeking the B.A. in History must earn grades of C or better in all HIST and GEOG courses in Areas G and H.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Students completing lower division course work (1000 and 2000 level) in History and Geography will demonstrate:

Historical Thinking

  • an understanding of history from human centered and world perspectives, including awareness of individuals and social groups as creators of history.
  • comprehension of the relationships between events over time including cause and effect, change and continuity, and structure and agency.
  • an understanding of the complexity of historical analysis and the ability to incorporate gender, ethnicity, race and class into an explanation of the past.

Historical Context

  • the ability to place major events and historical interpretations into chronological order and into a broader historical framework.
  • comprehension of major themes in history to include demographic change and migration, social change, political change, economic change, cultural change and interaction, technological change, religion and ideological development, and globalization.
  • the ability to read, understand, and discuss historical interpretation and information.

Global literacy

  • an understanding of the commonality and diversity of politics, societies, cultures and geographical regions of the world.

Communication Skills

  • the ability to organize and support an historical thesis in written form and to discuss historical issues in a group setting.

Graduates of the program in history will demonstrate:

Comprehension of Historiography and Historical Context

  • an understanding of different interpretations of historical evidence.
  • the ability to incorporate knowledge from related fields such as geography, economics, anthropology, sociology, literature, philosophy, art history or statistics depending upon the area of specialization.
  • the ability to place major events and historical interpretations into chronological order and into the broader thematic context.

Professional Skills

  • the ability to use resources such as the internet, library, archives and oral interviews.
  • computer skills necessary for inquiry, writing, synthesis, and communication.
  • the ability to communicate with others orally and in writing concerning historical facts, issues and interpretations.
  • research methods and historical discourse that value the work of others, maintain high standards in regard to proper evidence, and exhibit tolerance for alternative methods of research, synthesis and analysis.
  • the ability to document sources properly using Turabian.

Global and Comparative Perspectives

  • the ability to compare historical developments across time, space and cultures.

Department of Mathematics and Philosophy

The Department of Mathematics prides itself on student centered instruction. We love finding opportunities to work individually with students and engaging them in our research and creative efforts. Three of our students were cited in the College Mathematics Journal in 2008 for their solutions of challenging problems. Other students have worked on research projects with our faculty and presented their work at regional conferences. Our students enjoy socializing in two campus organizations – a club for students interested in math and computer science (MAX), and the Math Education Student Association (MESA).

Recent graduates of our programs have started careers as actuaries, defense industry experts, high school teachers, and programmer/analysts. Others have gone on to graduate school in mathematics.

The department offers four degree options: the Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, the Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Secondary Education, the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics , and the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics-Applied Math Concentration . Graduates of each program will cultivate the capabilities for presenting logical arguments, thinking abstractly, and formulating and solving problems. These attributes prepare the student for a lifetime of continuous advancement.

The BA programs feature a broad exposure to mathematics, including geometry and the history of math, and the flexibility to complete additional course work in another subject.

The BS-Math program features a traditional, rigorous plan of study designed to expose the student to a broad range of mathematics at a level sufficient for graduate studies in math or statistics.

The BS in Mathematics - Secondary Education Track provides solid background in mathematics, as well as course work necessary for teaching certification at the secondary level. With the nation facing a critical shortage of qualified math teachers, the student who completes the BS with secondary certification should expect a solid academic preparation and numerous job prospects.

The Applied Math concentration prepares the student for a career in industry. The student in Applied Math may select from two preparation tracks - actuarial science and statistics. Students who pursue the actuarial science track are encouraged to take the professional exams offered by the Society of Actuaries. Graduates with the BS - Applied Math might consider a career as an actuary, statistician, computer programmer, systems analyst, financial analyst, or engineering analyst.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates from all of the math programs will have:

  • an understanding of calculus and an ability to use calculus in applications
  • knowledge of algebraic structures
  • knowledge of the real numbers, functions, the topological properties of R, differentiation, and integration
  • knowledge of and the ability to apply probability density functions
  • knowledge of appropriate mathematical models
  • the ability to think critically
  • the ability to understand mathematical arguments and to construct mathematical proofs
  • the ability to use computational devices and software in problem solving situations
  • communication skills to acquire, develop, and convey mathematical knowledge

Department of Modern and Classical Languages

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages offers the following programs:

Students majoring in foreign languages are preparing themselves to be global citizens. This course of study can prepare students for a wide range of pursuits, including careers in education, government, business, or any institution with international dealings.

The department encourages educational activities beyond the classroom. It sponsors and encourages study abroad experiences, foreign language clubs, honor societies, language tables, film series, and lecture events. The foreign language program is supported by a 25-seat computer laboratory and by tutoring through the learning support office of University College.

Student Learning Outcomes for graduates of the BA program in French or Spanish.

(Outcomes for teacher certification programs are listed in the College of Education and Health Professions section.)

Graduates will demonstrate

  • the ability to communicate in the target language consistent with national standards, which includes the ability to engage in conversation, to understand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety of topics, and to present information to audiences.
  • an understanding of the relationship between languages and cultures.
  • an awareness of the interrelationships between foreign languages and other disciplines.
  • a knowledge of historical and literary periods and genres of the target language and cultures.
  • skills necessary for analyzing and interpreting literature with respect to historical and political perspectives.
  • knowledge of contemporary issues related to culture and literature.
  • the ability to apply research to formal and reflective writing on literature and culture.

Department of Political Science and MPA Program

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Political Science offers courses in all major parts of the discipline (American politics, political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public administration), and offers the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.

A political science degree is a pathway to law school, graduate school, or employment with government agencies or private sector organizations (businesses, interest groups, research organizations). While no specific undergraduate major is required for law school, the political science program addresses the communication skills, critical understanding of institutions, behaviors and values, and analytical thinking recommended for the study of law.

Student Learning Outcomes

Political Science graduates will:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the discipline of political science in terms of its history, content, purpose and methodologies
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the sub-fields of political science (American politics, political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public administration)
  • Demonstrate the ability to analyze materials (e.g. data, texts) and to think critically
  • Demonstrate the effective ability to communicate orally
  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in writing
  • Be prepared to achieve their personal goals with regard to intellectual and social skills
  • Be prepared to achieve their personal goals with regard to governmental employment, private employment, graduate and/or professional school

Graduate Program

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is designed to promote achievement of students' professional objectives with regard to government agencies and health organizations. It is suitable also for not-for-profit organizations. The program offers curriculum options in:

The program is appropriate for mid-career students with undergraduate degrees in liberal arts or technical/professional areas. To provide access to in-service as well as pre-service students, classes are scheduled for evenings, Saturdays, and on-line.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students will demonstrate knowledge of core and option subjects on the comprehensive examination
  • Graduates will express satisfaction with the contribution of the degree to their professional goals

Admission

An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required. Regular admission requires a minimum 2.75 undergraduate grade point average and either a minimum score of 800 on the general test of the Graduate Record Examination (total of verbal and quantitative scores) or a minimum score of 400 on the Miller Analogies Test. Applicants not meeting these criteria may be admitted as provisional students, if the department offering the option finds other indicators of probable success, such as professional achievement or upward trend of undergraduate grades.

Curriculum

Each MPA option is subject to the following requirements:

  • All students must complete the common core for the degree.
  • A minimum B average in core courses, with no more than two Cs, and a minimum grade of "B" in option courses are required for degree completion.
  • No more than 17 semester credit hours in the D. Abbott Turner College of Business and Computer Science courses, including transferred credit, may be credited toward the MPA degree.
  • Satisfactory completion of the Comprehensive Examination (MPAC 7000) is required for graduation. The examination is based on courses taken and normally is completed in the last semester of enrollment. It is the responsibility of the student to register for MPAC 7000 in the appropriate semester. A candidate who fails the examination will be eligible for re-examination during the next semester. Students in the general government administration and justice administration options may substitute MPAC 7999 (Thesis) for MPAC 7000.

Department of Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and the mind. The CSU Psychology Program offers a comprehensive curriculum leading to the Bachelor of Science (BS) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees in psychology. The BA degree requires competence in a foreign language. The BS degree requires additional lower-level courses chosen from psychology, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, or biology (see the online catalog for details of course requirements for both degrees and for psychology course descriptions).

Psychology graduates with a bachelor's degree find employment in many fields including human services, community and public relations, administration, program development, education, research, management, human resources, advertising, sales, and marketing. Some examples of careers for psychology graduates include:

Alcohol/drug abuse counselor
Career planning / placement counselor
Child protection worker
Veterans advisor
Employment counselor
Group home coordinator
Public relations specialist
Rehabilitation advisor
Social services assistant		 Behavior analyst
Case worker
Community outreach worker
Director of volunteer services
Family services worker
Mental health technician
Research assistant
Residential counselor
Social work assistant

A Masters degree or higher is required for most professional careers in psychology and our undergraduate program prepares qualified students for entrance into Masters, Doctoral, and other professional programs in psychology and related fields. Psychology majors also have the opportunity to participate in CSU's pre-medical program as preparation for application into medical school.

Our program has resources and laboratories designed to enhance the quality of learning. Our faculty represents a diversity of psychology's subfields including clinical, cognitive, developmental, social, personality, biological, and behavior analysis. Professors are eclectic in their interests and dedicated to student success. Opportunities are available for qualified students to work closely with faculty members on research projects, often leading to student presentations at local and regional professional conferences. Internships are also available for qualified students. We host a local chapter of Psi Chi, the national honor society in psychology, as well as our own Psychology Club.

The following are the Student Learning outcomes for completing an undergraduate degree in psychology at CSU:

  • Demonstrate a knowledge base of significant facts, theories, and issues of psychology and a conceptual framework within which new facts and ideas can be assimilated.
  • Demonstrate reasoning skills, employing critical thinking
  • Use English to participate effectively in communication of psychological knowledge and processes
  • Gather, synthesize, and utilize information from various sources
  • Demonstrate the ability to design research studies, gather data, and utilize quantitative tools and skills to investigate questions of behavior
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the historical roots and developments of psychology as a discipline and its place in the broader intellectual traditions of the sciences and humanities

The Psychology Program is housed in the Department of Psychology, Faculty Office Building (FOB), Room 110. Contact Dr. Mark Schmidt, Chair, Department of Psychology 706-568-2116 for more information.


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