Davis & Elkins College

Accounting

Accounting concepts are the foundation for the communication and analysis of financial information in the business environment. The accounting major builds on the general education curriculum to provide an understanding of current business and management concepts and practices, preparing students to pursue careers in private or governmental accounting, advanced study, or a variety of other career choices.

Accounting

Accounting concepts are the foundation for the communication and analysis of financial information in the business environment. The Associate of Science in Accounting provides foundational coursework in financial and managerial accounting along with supporting business courses, preparing students for entry-level accounting positions or continued study toward a bachelor's degree.

Art

The art curriculum is designed to introduce students to the world of art and aesthetics and guide them through intensive study of the visual arts, design, art theory, and art history. Studio art courses provide in-depth study in selective media, techniques, and processes that engage students in analytical and creative thinking, while art history courses develop understanding of art-making across time and cultures.

Biology

The Bachelor of Science in Biology is intended for students whose career goals are more technical and may include post-baccalaureate study. Offered by the Biology, Environmental Science, and Sustainability program, it develops an understanding of scientific inquiry and an appreciation of the unity and diversity of life.

Biology and Environmental Science

Offered by the Biology, Environmental Science, and Sustainability program, the Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Environmental Science is designed for students pursuing careers as field and lab technicians in areas that need considerable knowledge of biological and environmental concepts. The program develops an understanding of scientific inquiry and an appreciation of the unity and diversity of life and the relationships that operate within the biosphere.

Business

The Division of Business and Entrepreneurship offers a curriculum that gives students a balanced education of both liberal arts and professional courses. The Associate of Science in Business provides foundational coursework in accounting, management, marketing, economics, and business principles, preparing students for entry-level business positions or continued study toward a bachelor's degree.

Business Analytics

The Business Analytics major equips students with the skills to analyze data and drive strategic decision-making. The program combines business acumen with data science, covering statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization, with hands-on experience using tools like spreadsheets, SQL, and Tableau databases. Graduates are prepared for data-driven roles including business intelligence, marketing analytics, and financial forecasting.

Business Spatial Analyst

The certificate in Business Spatial Analyst prepares students to apply the science of geographic information with geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, and remote sensing to business questions. A business spatial analyst provides insights on the 'where' aspects of business, from selecting the best location for a store or bank branch to predicting efficient transportation routes and analyzing consumer trends over time.

Chemistry

The Chemistry major offers programs in General Chemistry and Chemistry-Pre-Medical. Students following the General Chemistry program are provided with a foundation for graduate study in chemistry or preparation for a career as a professional chemist in industry and research, and are also prepared for secondary school teaching and health-related vocations such as dentistry and optometry. The Pre-Medical program serves students planning to continue their education in the medical field.

Communication

The Communication program blends theories of human communication with concrete applications across personal, professional, and public spheres. Courses emphasize the breadth of theory, research, and practice in communication studies, introducing students to recent social scientific discoveries, developing performative skills, and mastering the humanistic foundations of the field.

Community and Corporate Health

In a society that is becoming more health-conscious and relying more on medical self-help programs, the study of personal and community health is needed for individuals to make informed health decisions. The Bachelor of Science in Community and Corporate Health prepares students for careers in the private and public health-maintenance sector, government and voluntary health agencies, health education, and other health care-related occupations.

Crime Analyst

The certificate in Crime Analyst prepares students to apply the science of geographic information with geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, and remote sensing to crime research. A crime analyst uses crime mapping technology, computer-aided dispatch, and police reports to identify patterns, locate where crimes occur, and gather and analyze crime statistics to help law enforcement respond to, solve, and prevent crime.

Criminal Justice

The Criminology and Criminal Justice program blends theoretical and applied approaches. The Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice emphasizes the applied aspects of criminal justice, providing the background and skills needed to pursue careers in the field or to continue toward a bachelor's degree. Coursework covers the criminal justice system, law enforcement, corrections, and related topics.

Criminology

The Criminology program blends theoretical and applied approaches. Predicated on an understanding of crime and punishment in a free and democratic society, it provides the background and skills needed to pursue professional careers in the field of criminal justice. Built on a strong social science foundation within a liberal arts framework, the bachelor's degree emphasizes the broader theoretical aspects of criminology and prepares students for a variety of careers or graduate study.

Digital Media

The Digital Media major focuses on graphic design, print design, interactive media, and 2D animation. The program provides hands-on courses in visual communication, branding, interactive digital environments, video and animation production, and 3D design using professional-grade design programs and online tools.

Economics

Study in economics includes a broad range of classes committed to presenting a view of the major economic systems in the world, with a special emphasis on the organization and operation of market economics. The Bachelor of Science in Economics builds on the Business and Entrepreneurship core, preparing students to analyze economic issues and pursue careers in business and government or to continue with graduate study.

Education

The Teacher Education program prepares candidates for careers in the classroom through coursework and field experiences grounded in professional standards. The major in Education leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree; students seeking initial certification and licensure may pursue a major in Elementary Education, Special Education, or Mathematics Education, and an Education degree is also available without certification.

Education

The Associate of Science in Education provides foundational coursework in education for students beginning their preparation for careers in teaching or related fields. The program combines introductory education courses with general studies and can serve as a pathway toward a bachelor's degree and teacher certification.

Educational Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies is designed for students interested in the field of education who do not seek initial teaching certification or licensure. It combines a foundation in educational theory and practice with a broad course of study, preparing graduates for education-related careers outside of licensed classroom teaching or for further study.

EDUCATION WITHOUT CERTIFICATION

Elementary Education

The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education prepares candidates for initial teacher certification to teach at the K-6 level. The program combines professional education coursework, content-area study, and supervised clinical and student teaching experiences aligned with West Virginia certification requirements.

English

Majors in English learn to read and discuss literature through a variety of critical approaches, to appreciate the power and subtlety of the English language, and to develop nuanced questions and communicate complex ideas through writing and speaking. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of literary traditions and the tools and methods of literary criticism, with concentrations available in literature, writing, and English education.

Environmental Science

Offered by the Biology, Environmental Science, and Sustainability program, the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science stresses an understanding of environmental problems and issues. The program is designed to meet the needs of students who are preparing for graduate study or who intend to pursue a career in the environmental sciences upon graduation, providing a scientific perspective on humankind and the environment.

Exercise Science

The Exercise Science major provides working knowledge of the physiology of exercise and exercise testing and prescription so that graduates may pursue employment in public and privately-owned wellness and fitness centers, corporate fitness facilities, and clinical therapeutic programs, and be well prepared to continue their formal education at the graduate level.

Finance

Students majoring in Finance study a broad range of issues dealing with business finance, investments, and macroeconomics. Topics include investment analysis, corporate finance, business ethics, real estate investment and portfolio management, insurance, and risk management. The Bachelor of Science in Finance builds on the Business and Entrepreneurship core to prepare students for careers in the financial sector.

Forest Technology

Offered by the Biology, Environmental Science, and Sustainability department, the two-year Forest Technology degree prepares students to become professional foresters. The program focuses on hands-on learning while emphasizing the multidisciplinary and sustainable nature of forestry, with students spending several hours a week outside developing practical skills.

Geopolitical Analyst

The certificate in Geopolitical Analyst prepares students to apply the science of geographic information with geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, and remote sensing to political and geopolitical questions. Students layer and analyze geospatial data to understand and communicate complex spatial patterns relevant to government, policy, and international affairs, preparing for entrance into the geospatial technologies workforce.

Geospatial Analyst

The certificate in Geospatial Analyst prepares students to apply the science of geographic information with geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, and remote sensing to environmental questions. A geospatial analyst layers and analyzes geospatial data to understand and communicate complex phenomena such as environmental impact, land cover change, climate change, and resource planning. The program prepares students for immediate entrance into the geospatial technologies workforce.

History

The History program develops students' ability to analyze the past critically, interpret primary and secondary sources, and communicate historical arguments effectively. Through the study of diverse periods and regions, students gain research, writing, and analytical skills that prepare them for careers in education, law, government, and public history, as well as for graduate study.

Hospitality and Tourism Management

The Hospitality and Tourism Management program prepares students for management careers in the hospitality, tourism, and service industries. Through a blend of liberal arts and professional coursework, students develop knowledge of hotel, restaurant, event, and tourism operations along with the business, leadership, and customer-service skills the industry demands.

Hospitality and Tourism Management

The Associate of Arts in Hospitality and Tourism Management prepares students for entry-level positions in the hospitality, tourism, and service industries. Combining liberal arts and professional coursework, the program develops knowledge of hotel, restaurant, event, and tourism operations and can serve as a pathway toward a bachelor's degree.

Interdisciplinary Studies

The Associate of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies allows students to design an individualized program of study drawing from multiple academic disciplines. Working with faculty advisors, students combine coursework across fields to meet educational and career goals, providing a flexible foundation for further study or the workforce.

Interdisciplinary Studies

The Interdisciplinary Studies major allows students to design an individualized program of study that draws from two or more academic disciplines. Working with faculty advisors, students combine coursework across fields to meet educational and career goals that a single traditional major may not address, providing a flexible foundation for further study or the workforce.

Management

The Management major prepares students to plan, organize, and lead people and operations within business and other organizations. Building on the Business and Entrepreneurship core, coursework develops knowledge of organizational behavior, human resources, strategy, and decision-making, preparing graduates for management and leadership roles across industries.

Marketing

The Marketing major prepares students to identify, reach, and serve customers in a competitive global marketplace. Building on the Business and Entrepreneurship core, coursework develops knowledge of consumer behavior, market research, promotion, and strategy, preparing graduates for careers in marketing, sales, advertising, and related fields.

Mathematics

The Mathematics major develops rigorous analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative reasoning skills through the study of pure and applied mathematics. The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics prepares students for careers in fields that require strong mathematical ability and for graduate study.

Mathematics Education

The Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics Education prepares candidates for initial teacher certification to teach mathematics at the secondary level. The program combines a strong foundation in mathematics with professional education coursework and supervised clinical and student teaching experiences aligned with certification requirements.

Nursing

The Associate Degree Nursing program prepares students for licensure as registered nurses. Requiring 72 total semester hours - 48 hours of nursing courses plus prerequisites and general education - the program integrates classroom, campus lab, and clinical learning across long-term care, acute care, and other settings. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX examination for registered nurse licensure.

Nursing (BSN)

The Davis & Elkins College Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a pre-licensure baccalaureate program with a curriculum organized around the QSEN Competencies and the NLN Competencies for Graduates of Baccalaureate Programs. Offered in 4-year traditional and 3-year accelerated options, the program prepares graduates to deliver safe, evidence-based, patient-centered care and to take the NCLEX examination for licensure as a registered nurse.

Nursing (RN-BSN)

The online RN-BSN Degree Completion Program is designed for working registered nurses who are adult learners with busy schedules that make a traditional residential course of study difficult. The curriculum emphasizes leadership and management skills, evidence-based practice, and the current health care system, and allows RNs with an associate degree or diploma to achieve a baccalaureate degree within 12 months. Courses are offered fully online and organized around the QSEN Competencies.

Outdoor Recreation Management

The Outdoor Recreation Management major prepares students for careers in the outdoor recreation, adventure, and tourism industries. Combining business coursework with outdoor skills and field experiences, the program develops the leadership, programming, and management abilities needed to work with recreation organizations, outfitters, parks, and related enterprises.

Physical Education

The Physical Education major prepares students for teaching careers in physical education as well as related areas such as coaching, youth work, and sport and athletic programs. Coursework provides leadership for instruction and participation in physical activity and an understanding of the principles of effective movement; students seeking teaching certification also complete a minor in Education.

Political Science

The Political Science program introduces students to the theories, institutions, and processes of government and politics at the local, national, and international levels. Coursework develops analytical, research, and communication skills and prepares students for careers in government, law, public policy, and related fields, as well as for graduate study.

Psychology and Human Services

The Psychology and Human Services program provides students with a foundation in psychological theory, research methods, and applied human services. Coursework prepares graduates to pursue careers in human services, counseling-related fields, and social services, or to continue their education in graduate or professional programs.

Psychology Spatial Analyst

The certificate in Psychology Spatial Analyst prepares students to apply the science of geographic information with geographic information systems (GIS), cartography, and remote sensing to questions in psychology and human behavior. Students layer and analyze geospatial data to understand and communicate spatial patterns relevant to psychological and social phenomena, preparing for entrance into the geospatial analytics workforce.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Religious Studies and Philosophy

The Religious Studies and Philosophy program engages students in the critical study of religious traditions, texts, and philosophical questions. Through examination of belief systems, ethics, and questions of human meaning, the program develops skills in analysis, interpretation, and reasoned argument, and includes a Religious Education option for those preparing for related vocations.

Special Education

The Bachelor of Arts in Special Education prepares candidates for initial teacher certification to work with students with exceptionalities across the K-6 and 5-Adult levels. The program combines professional education coursework, content study, and supervised clinical and student teaching experiences, with an option that includes preparation in autism.

SPECIAL EDUCATION WITH AUTISM

Sport Management

The Sport Management major prepares students for careers in the business and administration of sport and athletic-related organizations. Coursework combines sport science with business fundamentals in management, marketing, and finance, developing the organizational and leadership skills needed to manage sport programs, facilities, and enterprises.

Sustainability Studies

The Sustainability Studies major focuses on the relationship between human beings and the natural world - the challenge of meeting the needs of the present, such as health, energy, food, shelter, and transportation, while ensuring a viable world for future generations.

Sustainable Resource Management

Offered by the Biology, Environmental Science, and Sustainability department, Sustainable Resource Management is an interdisciplinary program that stresses the sustainable management of renewable and non-renewable natural resources. Three degree specializations are offered - Natural Resources Management, Forest Resources Management, and Parks and Recreation Management - preparing students for graduate school or employment in natural resources with industry or governmental agencies.

Theatre

The mission of the Davis & Elkins College Theatre and Film Program is to inspire thoughtful engagement in the collaborative processes of theatrical creation and film production. Students work with their advisor to develop their own creative emphasis and take courses across a wide range of disciplines, building a foundation to excel in contemporary theatre and film.

THEATRE EDUCATION