Susquehanna University

Accounting

A major in accounting requires the successful completion of the Sigmund Weis School of Business Foundation and the accounting courses. No grade below a C- will be accepted toward graduation for foundation courses. First-semester students in the Sigmund Weis School of Business also enroll in MGMT-196 Global Business Perspectives, which satisfies the First-Year Seminar requirement of the university's Central Curriculum.

Acting

Theatre students who want a specialized, comprehensive education in acting may pursue this degree option. Accepted majors will have superior skill in acting and demonstrate that skill through a resume of performance accomplishments. Students who successfully complete this program will be well-prepared for a career as a professional stage or film actor, voice-over artist, or commercial talent, and will also be highly competitive for admission to graduate programs in acting.

Anthropology

An anthropology major must successfully complete 44 semester hours of coursework primarily in anthropology, with courses in related disciplines such as sociology and history creditable toward the major. Required courses include Introduction to Anthropology, Qualitative Research Methods, History of Anthropological Theory and a capstone seminar or independent research project.

Art History

The Bachelor of Arts in art history requires 48 semester hours in art history and studio art with grades of C- or better. Junior and senior art history majors are encouraged to spend a semester studying away from campus as part of the university's GO program, and the department encourages majors to complete internships at museums and galleries.

Biochemistry

The Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry requires general, organic, analytical and physical chemistry, biochemistry of proteins and nucleic acids or metabolism with laboratories, calculus-based physics, cell biology and genetics, seminar, research experience and a capstone. Two biochemistry tracks are available: an ACS-Certified track and a Biology-Intensive track.

Biology

The Bachelor of Science degree in biology requires 60 semester hours in biology, chemistry and physics with grades of C- or better in biology. The degree includes an introductory sequence, biology distribution requirements in cell and molecular biology, organismal biology, and ecology and evolution, and a research capstone requirement.

Biomedical Sciences

The Biomedical Sciences major combines a solid foundation in the basic sciences of biology, chemistry, and physics with more applied courses related to the study of the human body plus courses in the social sciences that prepare students for working effectively as healthcare practitioners and biomedical researchers.

Business Analytics

Continuing advancements in technology enable organizations to collect and analyze increasing volumes of data that can inform strategic and operating decisions from a variety of business perspectives. Students complete the business foundation courses, which are then complemented by coursework in the mathematical sciences, enabling students to understand the application of data science techniques to business decision making.

Chemical Physics

The Bachelor of Science degree in chemical physics requires general chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, calculus-based physics, thermodynamics and statistical methods, calculus through linear algebra, and a capstone in chemistry or physics research. Students select at least four additional courses across chemistry, mathematics and physics, with the total number of semester hours in the major not to exceed 64.

Chemistry (B.A.)

The Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry is a liberal arts degree requiring general, organic, analytical, physical and inorganic chemistry, calculus-based physics, seminar, a research experience and a capstone problems course, all with grades of C- or better. The department's major in chemistry is accredited by the American Chemical Society.

Chemistry (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry with American Chemical Society certification requires a minimum of 49 semester hours in chemistry. Students complete all courses required for the Bachelor of Arts degree plus instrumental analysis, a biochemistry course, an elective chemistry course, additional research experience and either linear algebra or differential equations.

Chemistry-Management

The B.S. degree in chemistry-management prepares students for careers in management, administration, and consulting for chemical and pharmaceutical companies. The degree requires a minimum of 72 semester hours that includes foundational and advanced courses in chemistry and business, involving a minimum of 42 semester hours of coursework in STEM and a minimum of 30 semester hours in the business school.

Communications

Susquehanna offers degree emphases in Communications in advertising and public relations, broadcasting, communication arts, communication studies, journalism and digital content, and sports media. Majors complete university Central Curriculum requirements plus 48 to 50 semester hours of courses in a selected degree plan, including introductory courses, practicums for learning skills, and specific emphasis requirements.

Composition

Music students who desire a specialized emphasis in composing original works may choose this degree option. Accepted majors must possess skill in a standard performance area and also demonstrate potential as composers through a portfolio of notated works. Students who complete this program typically pursue graduate study leading toward professional activities as a composer, arranger or teacher.

Computer Science (B.A.)

To earn the Bachelor of Arts degree in computer science, students successfully complete, with grades of C- or better, the equivalent of 54 semester hours of computer science and mathematics coursework, including 18 semester hours at the 300-level or above. Students acquire knowledge of fundamental computer science and related mathematical concepts, together with programming skills, sufficient to support further postgraduate study or a career in computer science.

Computer Science (B.S.)

To earn the Bachelor of Science degree in computer science, a student must complete, with grades of C- or better, the equivalent of 64 semester hours, including 20 semester hours of 300-level or above computer science courses. Students develop the ability to design, implement, communicate and evaluate computing-based solutions as documented code to meet a given set of computing requirements in a professional style.

Creative Writing

The creative writing major emphasizes literature and writing courses that will be most valuable in preparing students not only for careers in writing, but also for related careers in law, education, publishing and editing. Courses are organized to offer breadth and depth, practical skills, and intensive independent writing, presentation and production experiences. Students are required to participate in a senior reading and to produce a senior chapbook.

Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice examines different aspects of the criminal justice system, including the micro-level and socio-economic foundations of criminal behavior; the laws and policies that seek to prevent and respond to criminal acts; the institutions created around the system; and the social, economic, and racial biases embedded in that system.

Data Science

The Data Science major is a program that combines Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science with an area of application to give students the tools necessary to pursue a career in the field. The major is intended for students who desire a strong technical background in the areas that form the discipline of Data Science. In addition to the core courses, students must complete a sequence of three courses outside the department in an application area.

Early Childhood Education (PreK-4)

Students who enter Susquehanna's Early Childhood Education program earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education and prepare for Pennsylvania PK-4 certification. The major combines courses in various disciplines with teacher education courses, education cognates and a semester of student teaching in the senior year.

Earth and Environmental Sciences

All majors complete the department foundation courses, a choice of distribution courses in water, geology, surface and climate/energy, corollary science and mathematics courses, a senior research project and a capstone experience. Courses in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences must be completed with grades of C- or higher.

Ecology

Ecology is an interdisciplinary program that draws on the strengths of the Biology Department and the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department. The Bachelor of Science degree in ecology requires 56 semester hours in biology, earth and environmental sciences and chemistry, including a four-course introductory sequence, 24 semester hours of electives and a year or more of student research.

Economics (B.A.)

The Bachelor of Arts in economics is a liberal arts degree earned in the university's School of Natural & Social Sciences. Students pursuing the B.A. choose an emphasis in general economics, financial economics, or the global economy and financial markets. Majors complete required coursework in macroeconomics, microeconomics, econometrics, statistics and calculus or quantitative methods, plus economics electives.

Economics (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science degree in economics is a more technical degree earned in the Sigmund Weis School of Business, integrating extensive business administration coursework into the study of economics. Candidates complete the business foundation courses and at least 20 semester hours of economics at the 300-level or above.

English - Literature

The English Literature major is designed to prepare students for a successful, fulfilling life and career in the 21st century by training them to understand the theoretical implications and historical context of all forms of writing and become expert writers.

English - Publishing & Editing

The English-Publishing & Editing major prepares students for careers in a digitally mediated publishing industry and for related careers in marketing, public relations, arts journalism, library and information science, and media management. Courses focus on both the intellectual and practical uses of literary study, especially the technologies of writing and reading, the businesses of literature, and craft.

Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation

The Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation major is designed to develop the skills needed to start a business or thrive as an entrepreneurial thinker within a corporate environment. Students develop entrepreneurial skills in conjunction with a focus on management, marketing, sales, negotiation and communication. The program combines theory with practice, providing students the opportunity to test theories, models and strategies by creating their own businesses and working within businesses.

Environmental Studies

Environmental studies is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to study environmental problems from multiple disciplinary perspectives. Drawing on courses from the departments of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Political Science, English & Creative Writing, Economics, Religious Studies, Sociology and Anthropology, and others, students develop a holistic, applied approach to environmental problem-solving.

Finance

The finance major prepares students for positions in all areas of finance, including asset management, corporate financial management, commercial and investment banks in an international context, investment advisory services, mutual funds, brokerages, and insurance. The major includes an optional CFA track that provides in-depth coverage of key areas tested on the CFA Level I examination, and students may participate in the Susquehanna University Student Investment Program.

French Studies

All majors in French Studies complete 28 semester hours at or above the 200-level, a semester of study abroad in a French-speaking country, a history requirement, and a capstone consisting of a 400-level French course and a language proficiency evaluation. Students must earn at least a C- in all major courses and have a minimum GPA of 2.00 in the major.

German Studies

All majors in German Studies complete GERM-201, GERM-202 and 20 semester hours of German at the 300- and 400-level, a semester of study abroad in a German-speaking country, a course in European history, and a capstone consisting of a 400-level German course and a language proficiency evaluation.

Graphic Design (B.A.)

The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design is a liberal arts program intended for those who are interested in graphic design but unsure if they wish to pursue a career in the field. Students are strongly encouraged to double-major with a related program, such as Marketing, Editing and Publishing, Luxury Brand Marketing & Management, Creative Writing, or Communications-Advertising. Admission to the program does not require a portfolio.

Graphic Design (BFA)

The BFA in Graphic Design requires 72 hours of Department of Art and Design courses with grades of C- or better, including art and design foundations, graphic design requirements and electives. Graphic design majors are expected to pursue internships at design firms, publishing houses and advertising agencies.

History

Students of history learn to read, analyze, and express themselves well; they study the past to learn from it and to prepare for a variety of careers. History majors focus on subjects, regions, and eras that interest them, and they graduate with a broad, international perspective on history. The major is flexible, works well with other majors and minors, and is particularly compatible with a semester abroad.

International Business

International Business majors develop the cross-cultural and business skills to effectively manage all types of enterprises in a global environment as well as prepare local and national organizations to expand across international borders. This major integrates both a theoretical and applied background in International Business. Students are required to complete an international internship in a foreign country.

International Studies

International studies majors must complete a minimum of 48-56 semester hours of approved coursework in the major, all with grades of C- or better. All majors must demonstrate proficiency through the 200-level of a modern world language and must take a capstone course. Students must engage in an off-campus, internationally focused educational experience, preferably a semester or year abroad.

Legal Studies

Legal Studies is an interdisciplinary major that focuses on legal ideas, legal institutions, and the legal process and the relationship between that process and larger social and political forces. The major is a pre-professional program focused on allowing students to better appreciate the implications of the law for individual rights and liberties and to discover if they want to pursue a legal career.

Luxury Brand Marketing & Management

Students in this major study the business models and unique marketing strategies that are often counter-intuitive but integral to the successful management and marketing of luxury brands. Students develop an advanced awareness of consumer behavior and consumer relationship management and learn to apply effective strategic marketing techniques to this fiercely competitive market.

Management

Management majors learn how to plan, organize, lead and control business operations, including the ability to manage people and relationships in for-profit and non-profit organizations and grow business opportunities. This major provides a broad background in management and is intended for students who wish to manage and lead organizational activities.

Marketing

Marketing involves managing the interface between an organization and its customers by determining their needs and behaviors and delivering need-satisfying value to them while meeting the organization's goals. Marketing has a fundamental role in virtually all business decisions and in directing the efforts of customer-driven organizations. The major requires completion of the business foundation plus 24 semester hours of marketing coursework.

Mathematical Economics

The Mathematical Economics major is a combined curriculum that incorporates mathematics, economics and statistics to allow students to develop the intellectual and quantitative skills to study questions at the intersection of these disciplines. The major is intended for students with a strong intellectual interest in both mathematics and economics and meets the classification as a STEM discipline according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Mathematics

Students complete the equivalent of 47 or 50 semester hours in mathematics and computer science, including calculus, statistics, linear algebra, discrete structures, abstract algebra, differential equations, two 400-level mathematics courses and a senior colloquium. Mathematics majors can easily complete a minor, and often a second major, in another department.

Music

Students interested in combining a solid foundation in music with the opportunity to pursue in-depth study in another area may choose this degree. The Bachelor of Arts capstone may be an independent study project in music or a department-approved recital. Students complete university Central Curriculum requirements plus music literature, theory and applied music courses with a minimum GPA of 2.00.

Music Education

Susquehanna University believes that educators need to demonstrate professional knowledge and skills in four domains of teaching: preparation and planning, instruction and assessment, creating a classroom environment of respect and rapport, and professional responsibility. Successful completion of the Bachelor of Music in music education degree requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00, and the program leads to Pennsylvania music education (PreK-12) teacher certification.

Neuroscience

The B.S. degree in neuroscience requires 61 semester hours in biology, chemistry, and psychology, with grades of C- or better in courses counting toward the major. The program involves 37 semester hours of required major courses providing students with an understanding of the disciplines that come together to make up the field of neuroscience, plus 12 semester hours of chemistry and 12 semester hours of upper-division electives.

Performance

Music students who desire a specialized emphasis in performance may choose this degree option. Accepted majors possess superior skill in the given performance area and demonstrate that skill at forums and recitals. Students who complete this program typically continue study at the graduate level and/or teach in a private studio.

Philosophy

Philosophy majors complete, with a grade of C- or better, at least 36 hours in philosophy, including symbolic logic, ancient philosophy, modern philosophy, an ethics course and additional distribution requirements. Students learn to read texts and arguments in a reflective and critical manner, write coherently and persuasively, and apply logical thinking skills in evaluating arguments.

Physics (B.A.)

Susquehanna offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs in physics. The Bachelor of Arts degree requires 36 semester hours in physics, 16 semester hours in mathematics and 8 additional hours in related sciences, all with grades of C- or better. The Bachelor of Arts is a good choice for students preparing to teach secondary school.

Physics (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science degree requires 36 semester hours in physics, 20 semester hours in mathematics and 8 additional hours in chemistry and approved sciences, all with grades of C- or better. The department strongly recommends the Bachelor of Science program for students interested in graduate school or industrial employment, and majors can pursue an interdisciplinary interest such as biophysics by carefully choosing electives.

Political Science

Majors take 48 semester hours in political science, all with grades of C- or better and at least a 2.00 political science GPA, including American government, comparative politics, international relations, two research methods courses, a senior seminar and 24 hours of electives. Students graduate with an understanding of the major theories and debates in American, International, and Comparative politics and the ability to compare and assess those theories critically.

Professional and Civic Writing

The Professional and Civic Writing major teaches students how to write a variety of documents that are widely used in business, non-profits, government and non-governmental organizations, and civic situations, including grant proposals, letters, personal profiles, websites, data visualizations, social media campaigns, infographics, podcasting, and video storytelling.

Professional Sales (B.A.)

Professional Sales is an interdisciplinary program that draws on the strength of the Communications Department and the Sigmund Weis School of Business. The Bachelor of Arts degree is a liberal arts degree earned in the School of Humanities, incorporating a solid communication foundation into professional sales studies. Candidates complete 24 semester hours of communications foundation courses plus 28-32 semester hours of professional sales courses.

Professional Sales (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science degree in professional sales is earned in the Sigmund Weis School of Business and integrates extensive business administration coursework into the study of professional sales. Candidates complete the business foundation courses and 22-26 semester hours of professional sales courses.

Psychology (B.A.)

Majors pursuing the Bachelor of Arts complete 41 semester hours in psychology with a grade of C- or better and with at least a 2.00 psychology GPA, drawn from five content areas: psychology core, developmental psychology, interpersonal and intrapersonal psychology, fundamental paradigms, and laboratory proficiency, plus 12 hours of electives. Majors must also complete a comprehensive psychology examination during the junior or senior year.

Psychology (B.S.)

Candidates for the Bachelor of Science degree complete all requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in psychology plus two additional courses, at least one of which must be selected from outside the psychology department. Options include a natural science course with lab, a mathematics course numbered 111 or higher, a third fundamental paradigms course, or Advanced Research Design and Analysis.

Public Policy

Students must complete 44 semester hours, all with grades of C- or higher, as well as an internship experience. Students develop the analytical and methodological tools necessary to study and explain the development and implementation of public policies, identify the objectives motivating different public policies, and evaluate critically the extent to which a policy fulfills its objectives.

Real Estate

The Real Estate major is designed to develop the leaders needed to thrive in the real estate industry. Students develop skills in conjunction with a focus on real estate fundamentals, financial analysis, marketing, law, and negotiations. Students develop competencies around development, market underwriting, investment analysis, urban planning, appraisal, asset and risk management, brokerage, and marketing.

Religious Studies

Majors in religious studies complete at least 36 semester hours in the discipline with grades of C- or better. To ensure both breadth and depth of study, there is one compulsory course, and the remaining 32 semester hours must include at least one course from each of four subject areas: Primary Religious Texts, Ethics, Non-Western Religions, and Contemporary Issues in Religion.

Sociology

A sociology major must complete 44 semester hours of required courses in sociology and anthropology and receive grades of C- or better. There are five compulsory courses, and at least 12 of the remaining 24 hours must be taken at the 300-level or higher. The capstone requirement is met by taking a seminar or, with permission, independent research producing a research paper.

Spanish Studies

All majors in Spanish Studies complete 28 semester hours above the 201-level (or 24 semester hours at the 300- and 400-levels for students placed at the 300-level), a semester of study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country, a related history course, and a capstone. Students must earn at least a C- in all major courses and have a minimum GPA of 2.00 in the major.

Special Education PreK-12

The B.S. Special Education PK-12 program is designed for students who have an interest in teaching special education across the PK-12 continuum. Candidates demonstrate knowledge and competencies in the areas of academic, behavioral, social, and emotional growth, and methods to maximize a student's capabilities. In addition to the B.S. degree, this program makes students eligible for the Special Education Grades PK-12 certificate in Pennsylvania.

Studies in Early Education

The Studies in Early Education major is designed for students who have an interest in early childhood education, the development of young learners, and the structures of instruction and schools. Graduates have the credentials and experiences for employment in education settings where teacher certification is not required, such as non-traditional and private schools and preschools, youth camps, children's museums, and educational consulting organizations.

Studio Art

The Bachelor of Arts in studio art requires 46 semester hours of art department courses with grades of C- or better, including general requirements, art electives and a senior portfolio. Students choose a concentration in painting and drawing or in photography.

Theatre

Susquehanna offers a B.A. in theatre with three emphases: performance, production and design, and theatre studies. Majors complete university Central Curriculum requirements plus 52 semester hours of courses in one of the three theatre emphases. The department expects theatre majors to participate each semester in department theatre productions and activities supervised by department faculty.

Theatre Management

Students who want a thorough pre-professional education in theatre management may pursue this degree option. Accepted majors will have demonstrated potential as project coordinators and arts organizers and will document that skill through a portfolio of accomplishments. Graduates typically continue study at the graduate level and/or work in the areas of patron services, venue management, event coordination, and theatre operations.