Rockford University

Accounting

The RU Online Accounting Certificate consists of three accounting courses at the intermediate level, preparing scholars for entry-level accounting jobs. There are two prerequisite courses for entry into the certificate. (Effective Spring 2025).

Accounting (B.A.)

The Puri School of Business Accounting major combines knowledge in accounting, taxation, and data analytics with professional competencies in critical thinking, communication, leadership, and strategic decision-making. Students study the principles, concepts, and methods used to record and report the transactions and activities of an organization, as well as the tools and processes to audit and analyze accounting information.

Accounting (B.S.)

The Puri School of Business Accounting major combines knowledge in accounting, taxation, and data analytics with professional competencies in critical thinking, communication, leadership, and strategic decision-making. Students study the principles, concepts, and methods used to record and report the transactions and activities of an organization, as well as the tools and processes to audit and analyze accounting information.

Accounting Studies

The Bachelor of Science in Accounting Studies degree, offered through RU Online, provides a broad-based business education with a focus on industry knowledge. Learners gain exposure to a wide range of content that includes managerial accounting, financial statements, auditing and fraud, and tax returns, in addition to key organizational training such as management and leadership, economics, and marketing.

Art History

The Art History major in the Art & Art History Department is devoted to the historical understanding and current interpretations of traditional works of art and visual culture. Students must earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all required and supporting coursework.

B.A. and B.F.A. in Art

B.A. and B.F.A. in Dance

B.A. and B.S. in General Education

B.A. and B.S. in Physical Education

B.A. and B.S. in Social Sciences

B.A. in Classics

B.A. in French

B.A. in Latin

B.A. in Music

B.A. in Philosophy

B.A. in Romance Languages

B.F.A. in Musical Theatre Performance

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary major intended for students interested in areas close to the interface between biology and chemistry such as bioinformatics, biotechnology, biophysics, genetics, immunology, toxicology, endocrinology, and pharmacology. The degree offers a rigorous foundation of science courses and a research-like investigative laboratory curriculum, with an option to pursue a Biochemistry degree certified by the American Chemical Society.

Biology (B.A.)

The Biology program provides an understanding of biological systems at multiple levels of organization. Students with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology have the necessary foundations to pursue a variety of careers including secondary education and public health.

Biology (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science in Biology prepares students for medical, dental, or veterinarian schools and other health-allied occupations, as well as graduate study and careers in biotechnology and industry. The biology degree is divided into two tracks, Biomedical Sciences and Conservation & Wildlife, to help focus student coursework on the area best suited to their future careers.

Bookkeeping

The RU Online Bookkeeping Certificate consists of three accounting courses at the introductory and intermediate level, preparing scholars for entry-level bookkeeping and accounting jobs. (Effective Spring 2025).

B.S. in Bilingual Education

B.S. in Health Care Administration

B.S. in Organizational Leadership

Business Administration

These certificates are designed to meet the needs of professionals who intend to take their organizations to the next level. The Graduate Certificate consists of a series of three MBA courses in any of the concentrations (Finance, Health Care Administration, Organizational Leadership, or Project Management), and may be applied toward an MBA degree after completing matriculation requirements.

Business Administration

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree began in 1980. The practitioner-based program is designed for mid- and upper-level leaders who want to advance their career and personal achievements, and offers concentrations in Finance, Healthcare Administration, Organizational Leadership, and Project Management.

Business Administration (B.A.)

The Puri School of Business bachelor's degree in business administration provides students with a broad perspective to prepare for today's complex social, cultural, and professional contexts. Focused on practical application, the degree fosters robust knowledge and skills that can be readily applied to many professions.

Business Administration (B.S.)

The Puri School of Business bachelor's degree in business administration provides students with a broad perspective to prepare for today's complex social, cultural, and professional contexts. Focused on practical application, the degree fosters robust knowledge and skills that can be readily applied to many professions.

Chemistry (B.A.)

Chemistry is rooted in mathematics and physics yet has applications in biology, medicine, material science, environmental science, and engineering. A Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry provides foundations for high school science teachers, sales and management personnel at chemical companies, or careers in patent law.

Chemistry (B.S.)

A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry opens career opportunities including graduate school, pharmaceuticals, and synthesis and other assorted industrial applications. The program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS), allowing the department to offer an ACS-Certified Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.

Computer Science (B.A.)

The computer science program offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Cybersecurity, Management Information Systems (MIS), and Web Development (WEB). A goal of the program is to integrate computer science and software engineering concepts and principles into solving real-world problems for organizations and businesses.

Computer Science (B.S.)

The computer science program offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Cybersecurity, Management Information Systems (MIS), and Web Development (WEB). A goal of the program is to integrate computer science and software engineering concepts and principles into solving real-world problems for organizations and businesses.

Criminal Justice (B.A.)

Criminal justice is an interdisciplinary field which prepares students for a wide range of careers in fields such as law enforcement, probation and parole, pre-trial services, law, homeland security, fish and game conservation, and public advocacy. Students complete coursework in criminal justice, sociology, and political science.

Criminal Justice (B.S.)

Criminal justice is an interdisciplinary field which prepares students for a wide range of careers in fields such as law enforcement, probation and parole, pre-trial services, law, homeland security, fish and game conservation, and public advocacy. Students complete coursework in criminal justice, sociology, and political science.

Data Analytics (B.A.)

Data analytics is an essential part of business decision-making. This major provides quantitative methods to understand consumer behavior and markets and to develop business policies accordingly. Data analysts also design and execute experiments to measure essential market trends.

Data Analytics (B.S.)

Data analytics is an essential part of business decision-making. This major provides quantitative methods to understand consumer behavior and markets and to develop business policies accordingly. Data analysts also design and execute experiments to measure essential market trends.

Digital Marketing (B.A.)

Digital marketers develop the ability to think agilely, mastering the dual skills of persuasive communication and data analytics. The program provides a solid foundation in both areas and nurtures the intuition to seamlessly integrate them into successful strategies.

Digital Marketing (B.S.)

Digital marketers develop the ability to think agilely, mastering the dual skills of persuasive communication and data analytics. The program provides a solid foundation in both areas and nurtures the intuition to seamlessly integrate them into successful strategies.

Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education (B.A.)

The Early Childhood Education program prepares teachers for preschool, kindergarten, and the early primary grades (1-2) leading to a degree and a Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education.

Early Childhood Education (B.S.)

The Early Childhood Education program prepares teachers for preschool, kindergarten, and the early primary grades (1-2) leading to a degree and a Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education.

Early Childhood Education Studies (B.A.)

The undergraduate Early Childhood Education Studies program (Non-Licensure) prepares students to work in the field to support young children outside of traditional public schools and teaching. It is designed for students seeking careers such as Director of Early Childhood Centers, Home-based Service Provider, and Family Support Specialist.

Early Childhood Education Studies (B.S.)

The undergraduate Early Childhood Education Studies program (Non-Licensure) prepares students to work in the field to support young children outside of traditional public schools and teaching. It is designed for students seeking careers such as Director of Early Childhood Centers, Home-based Service Provider, and Family Support Specialist.

Economics (B.A.)

The Puri School of Business bachelor's degree in economics prepares graduates to enter the job market with desirable critical thinking and analytical skills. Because the field is a diverse course of study, economics graduates can seek careers in business, finance, and banking, as well as in nonprofit agencies, healthcare organizations, and law firms.

Economics (B.S.)

The Puri School of Business bachelor's degree in economics prepares graduates to enter the job market with desirable critical thinking and analytical skills. Because the field is a diverse course of study, economics graduates can seek careers in business, finance, and banking, as well as in nonprofit agencies, healthcare organizations, and law firms.

Education

The Rockford University Master of Education (MEd) program is designed for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree and seek an advanced degree in the field of education. The degree does not lead to professional educator licensure but may be customized to include ISBE-approved coursework leading to endorsements. It is offered in Pedagogical Practice, Reading Specialist, Urban Education, and Urban Education Leadership, with thesis and non-thesis options.

Elementary Education (B.A.)

The Elementary Education program provides professional education courses that address state and institutional requirements leading to a degree and a professional educator license (PEL) with an endorsement in Elementary Education.

Elementary Education (B.S.)

The Elementary Education program provides professional education courses that address state and institutional requirements leading to a degree and a professional educator license (PEL) with an endorsement in Elementary Education.

Elementary Education Studies (B.A.)

The Elementary Education Studies program (Non-Licensure) provides professional education coursework and institutional requirements leading to a degree in Elementary Education without a licensure track.

Elementary Education Studies (B.S.)

The Elementary Education Studies program (Non-Licensure) provides professional education coursework and institutional requirements leading to a degree in Elementary Education without a licensure track.

English

The English major offers reading, critical thinking, and communication strategies through a core curriculum and required rhetoric sequence, with literature, creative writing, and rhetorical studies seminars. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required in the major's required courses.

Finance

An RU Online credit-bearing certificate offering professional development in a focused area of study. Through the three-course certificate program, students gain insights and learn critical skills to manage, lead, and succeed.

Financial Economics (B.A.)

The Puri School of Business bachelor's degree in financial economics prepares students for a myriad of positions in federal, state, and local government, as well as non-profit organizations. Graduates may qualify for roles such as bank examiner, budget analyst, compliance officer, economist, financial analyst, internal revenue agent, data analyst, and statistician.

Financial Economics (B.S.)

The Puri School of Business bachelor's degree in financial economics prepares students for a myriad of positions in federal, state, and local government, as well as non-profit organizations. Graduates may qualify for roles such as bank examiner, budget analyst, compliance officer, economist, financial analyst, internal revenue agent, data analyst, and statistician.

Healthcare Administration (B.A.)

The Healthcare Administration program was designed to provide students with the skills they need to succeed within the modern healthcare workforce.

Healthcare Administration (B.S.)

The Healthcare Administration program was designed to provide students with the skills they need to succeed within the modern healthcare workforce.

History (B.A.)

The History program allows students to focus their major on the areas of history of greatest interest to them, whether US or more internationally focused. A degree in history provides a comprehensive background for careers in business, law, museum work, and secondary education, and can lead to graduate school.

History (B.S.)

The History program allows students to focus their major on the areas of history of greatest interest to them, whether US or more internationally focused. A degree in history provides a comprehensive background for careers in business, law, museum work, and secondary education, and can lead to graduate school.

Human Development (B.A.)

The Human Development major combines theory with hands-on experience in the classroom and community, drawing on psychology, education, philosophy, and sociology, with concentrations in child/adolescent development, aging studies, and lifespan development. Graduates pursue careers in areas such as child care, child welfare, family therapy, school psychology, and mental health.

Human Development (B.S.)

The Human Development major combines theory with hands-on experience in the classroom and community, drawing on psychology, education, philosophy, and sociology, with concentrations in child/adolescent development, aging studies, and lifespan development. Graduates pursue careers in areas such as child care, child welfare, family therapy, school psychology, and mental health.

Humanities

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities enables students to study a particular period, theme, or topic through the humane disciplines, extending the general education requirements to allow further work in the arts, history, literature, philosophy, and foreign language. The major includes a core program conducted in a foreign language and an upper-level special program, culminating in a senior project.

Human Resources

An RU Online credit-bearing certificate offering professional development in a focused area of study. Through the three-course certificate program, students gain insights and learn critical skills to manage, lead, and succeed.

Human Services

This RU Online degree-completion major combines knowledge and experience to prepare learners for advancement within the Human Services field, drawing on psychology, human development, and business. Graduates can work in professions that address the needs of at-risk populations throughout the life span, including social and community service managers, child and family services, and drug and alcohol counselors.

International Studies (B.A.)

The International Studies program educates students for global-oriented careers and engaged citizenship in an interconnected world. As a multidisciplinary major, it draws courses from numerous departments and is well-suited as one component of a dual-major combination.

International Studies (B.S.)

The International Studies program educates students for global-oriented careers and engaged citizenship in an interconnected world. As a multidisciplinary major, it draws courses from numerous departments and is well-suited as one component of a dual-major combination.

Kinesiology (B.A.)

The Kinesiology program prepares students to excel in the fields of exercise science, sport management, and teaching. Majors choose between three tracks (exercise science, sport management, or teaching) and engage in authentic learning experiences and interdisciplinary coursework including clinical settings and internships.

Kinesiology (B.S.)

The Kinesiology program prepares students to excel in the fields of exercise science, sport management, and teaching. Majors choose between three tracks (exercise science, sport management, or teaching) and engage in authentic learning experiences and interdisciplinary coursework including clinical settings and internships.

Leadership

An RU Online credit-bearing certificate offering professional development in a focused area of study. Through the three-course certificate program, students gain insights and learn critical skills to manage, lead, and succeed.

M.A. in Teaching, Instructional Strategies

Management Information Systems, General.

Management Studies

The RU Online Management Studies major prepares students for management and leadership roles through coursework focused on the breadth of business management. Learners demonstrate content mastery and critical soft skills needed to work and lead in the field, and graduates can work in any field including businesses, not-for-profits, and startups.

Marketing

An RU Online credit-bearing certificate offering professional development in a focused area of study. Through the three-course certificate program, students gain insights and learn critical skills to manage, lead, and succeed.

Marketing (B.A.)

Success in marketing requires understanding a myriad of fundamental concepts, principles, theories, tools, and techniques. Students gain branding and advertising insight for an integrated business landscape featuring courses in social media, sales, consumer behavior, and graphic design, preparing them for a sustainably successful marketing career.

Marketing (B.S.)

Success in marketing requires understanding a myriad of fundamental concepts, principles, theories, tools, and techniques. Students gain branding and advertising insight for an integrated business landscape featuring courses in social media, sales, consumer behavior, and graphic design, preparing them for a sustainably successful marketing career.

Master of Business Administration

Mathematics (B.A.)

The Mathematics program presents mathematics as one of the humanities and a creation of the human mind, offered in general, computational, and data science tracks. A major in mathematics provides entry into academic and actuarial professions and a variety of positions in industry, computer field, and government.

Mathematics (B.S.)

The Mathematics program presents mathematics as one of the humanities and a creation of the human mind, offered in general, computational, and data science tracks. A major in mathematics provides entry into academic and actuarial professions and a variety of positions in industry, computer field, and government.

M.A.T. in Art

M.A.T. in Elementary Education

M.A.T. in English

M.A.T. in Foreign Language

M.A.T. in General Education

M.A.T. in Instructional Strategies

M.A.T. in Mathematics

M.A.T. in Physical Education

M.A.T. in Reading

M.A.T. in Secondary Education

M.A.T. in Social Studies

M.A.T. in Special Education

M.Ed. in Urban Education

Middle Grades Education (B.A.)

The Middle Grades Education program provides general education and professional education courses leading to a degree and a professional educator license (PEL) with an endorsement in middle grades education. Students choose one or more subject area tracks (literacy, math, science, and social science) to be licensed to teach in grades 5-8.

Middle Grades Education (B.S.)

The Middle Grades Education program provides general education and professional education courses leading to a degree and a professional educator license (PEL) with an endorsement in middle grades education. Students choose one or more subject area tracks (literacy, math, science, and social science) to be licensed to teach in grades 5-8.

M.S. in English as a Second Language

Nursing

The Nursing department offers a four-year track leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, preparing registered professional nurses to provide quality care within a global society. A strong community-based clinical component provides opportunities to apply knowledge and skills, and successful completion qualifies students to apply for the professional nurse licensure examination.

Operations Management

An RU Online credit-bearing certificate offering professional development in a focused area of study. Through the three-course certificate program, students gain insights and learn critical skills to manage, lead, and succeed.

Political Science (B.A.)

The discipline of political science helps students develop their minds and characters to become decent, responsible, and informed citizens. Course offerings cover the full range of subfields including American government and politics, political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, providing a good foundation for careers in politics, public administration, law, business, journalism, and education.

Political Science (B.S.)

The discipline of political science helps students develop their minds and characters to become decent, responsible, and informed citizens. Course offerings cover the full range of subfields including American government and politics, political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, providing a good foundation for careers in politics, public administration, law, business, journalism, and education.

Post-MBA

Any alumni can return to Rockford University, take 3 or 4 MBA core or elective courses, and earn a Post-MBA certificate.

Psychology (B.A.)

Psychology majors develop an understanding of human thought and behavior through active learning, grounded in science and research reflection. Graduates enter career positions in areas such as mental health, educational services, social services, and personnel work, and pursue graduate study in counseling, health, clinical, and other psychology fields.

Psychology (B.S.)

Psychology majors develop an understanding of human thought and behavior through active learning, grounded in science and research reflection. Graduates enter career positions in areas such as mental health, educational services, social services, and personnel work, and pursue graduate study in counseling, health, clinical, and other psychology fields.

Science & Mathematics (B.A.)

The major in Science and Mathematics is an individually-designed, integrated program linking courses that are intellectually related, allowing students to concentrate in a maximum of three related disciplines drawn from Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics. The major recognizes the interdisciplinary nature of modern science.

Science & Mathematics (B.S.)

The major in Science and Mathematics is an individually-designed, integrated program linking courses that are intellectually related, allowing students to concentrate in a maximum of three related disciplines drawn from Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics. The major recognizes the interdisciplinary nature of modern science.

Social Science (B.A.)

A major in the Social Sciences provides students with flexibility in selecting a program of study from among three disciplines in the University. Students take a senior seminar in one of the disciplines studied, and the major offers a desirable alternative for those planning careers in secondary teaching, social work, governmental administration, or foreign commerce.

Social Science (B.S.)

A major in the Social Sciences provides students with flexibility in selecting a program of study from among three disciplines in the University. Students take a senior seminar in one of the disciplines studied, and the major offers a desirable alternative for those planning careers in secondary teaching, social work, governmental administration, or foreign commerce.

Sociology (B.A.)

The discipline of sociology explores the nature, structure, and dynamics of social life, paying close attention to factors such as class, race, ethnicity, sex/gender, religious belief, and national identity. Sociology majors pursue careers in fields as diverse as advocacy, business, education, government, human services, law, and public administration.

Sociology (B.S.)

The discipline of sociology explores the nature, structure, and dynamics of social life, paying close attention to factors such as class, race, ethnicity, sex/gender, religious belief, and national identity. Sociology majors pursue careers in fields as diverse as advocacy, business, education, government, human services, law, and public administration.

Spanish

The Bachelor of Arts program in Spanish prepares students for teaching and graduate school and provides a valuable tool for careers involving contact with Spanish-speaking people, such as education, public and social services, health services, law, business, and government. Students develop cultural competence and global perspectives through language study.

Special Education (B.A.)

The Special Education program prepares teachers to teach students K-22 years of age in special education settings, leading to a degree and a Professional Educator License (PEL) with a Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement.

Special Education (B.S.)

The Special Education program prepares teachers to teach students K-22 years of age in special education settings, leading to a degree and a Professional Educator License (PEL) with a Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement.

Special Education Studies (B.A.)

The undergraduate Special Education Studies program (Non-Licensure) prepares students to work in the field to support children and adults with disabilities outside of traditional schools and teaching, for students seeking careers such as child advocate, disabilities service consultant, tutor, or support staff.

Special Education Studies (B.S.)

The undergraduate Special Education Studies program (Non-Licensure) prepares students to work in the field to support children and adults with disabilities outside of traditional schools and teaching, for students seeking careers such as child advocate, disabilities service consultant, tutor, or support staff.

Studio Art (B.A.)

The Studio Art major in the Art & Art History Department centers on instruction in the making of works of art across two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and graphic design media. Students must earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all required and supporting coursework.

Studio Art (B.F.A.)

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art is a professional studio degree with concentrations in two-dimensional design, three-dimensional design, or graphic design. Students must earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all required and supporting coursework.

Supply Chain Management (B.A.)

The process of getting a product from where it's produced to the individual person who needs it has grown ever more immense in scale, and supply chain professionals are the people who plan and run these complex interconnected systems.

Supply Chain Management (B.S.)

The process of getting a product from where it's produced to the individual person who needs it has grown ever more immense in scale, and supply chain professionals are the people who plan and run these complex interconnected systems.

Teaching

Since 1952, the Rockford University Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree has established a proud tradition as a teacher of teachers. The program is designed to further students' knowledge in one or more academic disciplines, increase understanding of the educational process, and enhance various skills involved in teaching.

Theatre

The Performing Arts department offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with concentrations in Acting/Directing, Design & Production, Musical Theatre Performance, or Theatre Management. All Theatre Arts majors must go through an audition and/or interview process before the Theatre faculty.

Theatre Arts (B.A.)

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts is for students interested in a generalist degree or who are pursuing secondary education certification. All Theatre Arts majors must go through an audition and/or interview process before the Theatre faculty.

Theatre Arts (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts is for students interested in a generalist degree or who are pursuing secondary education certification. All Theatre Arts majors must go through an audition and/or interview process before the Theatre faculty.