Programs

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Biology, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Biology program at Young Harris College offers a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences, preparing students for diverse careers in fields such as healthcare, environmental studies, and research. The program integrates a strong liberal arts foundation with a focus on critical thinking, hands-on techniques, and ethical research practices to equip students to tackle complex biological challenges. Students will have the opportunity to engage in exciting research projects alongside faculty mentors, culminating in capstone presentations and potential participation in scientific conferences.

Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program at Young Harris College equips students with the essential insights and tools needed for effective business management, covering areas from strategic analysis to customer relations. This degree prepares graduates for a variety of career paths and further academic pursuits.

Chemistry, Bachelor of Science Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry program at Young Harris College offers a comprehensive study of matter, its transformations, and its fundamental role as the 'central science.' This major equips students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills, grounded in the scientific method. The curriculum integrates chemistry with physics, mathematics, and biology, providing a broad scientific foundation. Students will gain a deep understanding of chemical principles and their applications, preparing them for a wide array of career paths or further academic pursuits. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and analytical skills, encouraging students to critically examine and understand the world through a scientific lens.

Communication Studies, Bachelor of Arts

Communication Studies at Young Harris College explores how people use messages to create meaning across various forms, media, and contexts. This discipline uses humanities, social scientific, and aesthetic approaches to understand communication. The program builds on a liberal arts foundation, incorporating research skills and offering diverse courses in interpersonal, media, rhetorical, and critical analysis areas.

Creative Writing, Bachelor of Arts Degree

The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing program at Young Harris College trains students to effectively communicate innovative ideas in poetry and prose. You will develop your writing technique and practice, gaining an understanding of your place within the literary tradition. The program offers a foundation in literature alongside courses focusing on the craft and theory of writing. Through a rigorous and diverse curriculum, including craft classes, workshops, and seminars, you will be introduced to various literary genres, with opportunities for individual growth and mentorship.

Departments - Young Harris College

Young Harris College offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate programs across 12 academic departments, designed to provide students with immersive experiences and prepare them for life after graduation. The college emphasizes innovative approaches to learning, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills. Students can pursue majors and minors in diverse fields, with opportunities for interdisciplinary study to tailor their education to specific career goals.

Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science Degree

The Elementary Education program at Young Harris College offers a Bachelor of Science degree designed to prepare students to teach elementary-aged students. This program is aligned with the requirements set by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Building upon the college's liberal arts foundation, the curriculum emphasizes classroom instructional theory, best practices, and leadership skills. Students will gain practical experience through various field placements. The program includes coursework totaling 120 hours, comprising 31 hours of General Education, 33 hours of electives (including two Physically Active Life Skills courses), and 56 hours dedicated to program-specific courses. Graduates are eligible for initial certification in Georgia, though licensing requirements vary by U.S. state.

English, Bachelor of Arts Degree

The Bachelor of Arts in English program at Young Harris College focuses on developing effective communication skills, enabling students to construct and support compelling arguments about complex texts. The curriculum is built on a liberal arts foundation, offering a broad study of literature. Students have the flexibility to choose a specific concentration within English, such as British literature, and can further tailor their studies with complementary minors or additional majors.

Environmental Science, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program at Young Harris College equips students to address complex environmental challenges. You will gain a strong foundation in the natural sciences while also exploring the social, economic, and ethical dimensions of environmental issues. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, including training in instrumentation and field techniques, and fosters collaborative problem-solving. Through engaging with faculty and participating in projects with local, regional, and national organizations, students develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental science and its applications. This program prepares graduates for diverse careers or further study in advanced degree programs.

Environmental Studies, Bachelor of Arts

The Environmental Studies Bachelor of Arts degree program at Young Harris College equips students with critical thinking skills to explore biological sciences through the lens of wilderness and park management. This degree prepares you for careers in conservation or outdoor recreation by providing a strong foundation in scientific concepts and integrating them with an understanding of human interaction with natural environments.

Graphic Design, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at Young Harris College equips students with both technical and conceptual skills for careers in design and commercial arts. This program prepares graduates for various graduate studies and professional opportunities. Students will develop proficiency in image-making and design principles, essential for success in the contemporary creative industries. The curriculum balances foundational knowledge with practical application, ensuring students are well-rounded designers.

History, Bachelor of Arts

The History Bachelor of Arts program at Young Harris College provides students with a deep understanding of the past to better comprehend the present. The curriculum focuses on social, cultural, military, economic, political, and intellectual historical moments. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills through a broad exploration of historical topics. The program is built on a liberal arts core, allowing ample elective hours for students to pursue double majors, minors, or courses outside their primary field of study that align with their interests.

Kinesiology, Bachelor of Science Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology & Sport is designed to prepare students for careers in health, fitness, and exercise science. It also serves as a strong foundation for pre-professional programs in healthcare fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training. The curriculum offers a broad understanding of sport, recreation, and human performance, equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for effective leadership in the field. Students can choose from three specialized concentrations: Exercise Science, Sports Health & Fitness, or Sport & Recreation. The program may also offer micro-credentials in areas like Coaching, Pre-Athletic Training, and Sports Media to further support diverse career paths.

Majors and Minors

Young Harris College offers a wide array of undergraduate majors and minors designed to help you discover your passions and build a strong academic foundation. With 31 majors and 22 minors, you can tailor your education to your specific interests and career aspirations. The college also offers two Master's programs for those seeking advanced study.

Marketing, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Marketing program at Young Harris College prepares students for careers in marketing or for further graduate studies. The curriculum focuses on understanding customer demand, building brand appeal, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Graduates will be equipped to manage brand image, analyze customer behavior, and oversee digital and traditional media promotions.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Young Harris College is an online program designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree who aspire to become certified teachers. This program leads to a Master's level professional certification in less than 12 months and is ideal for those balancing a career or other commitments. The MAT program prepares graduates for teacher certification in grades 6-12 in specific content areas, including biology, broad field science, English, history, or mathematics. The curriculum combines online coursework with practical, hands-on field experiences and student teaching in schools. The program is structured across three semesters: summer, fall, and spring. The summer semester features online, asynchronous courses. During the fall semester, students engage in field studies, and the spring semester involves a student teaching internship. This blended approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical classroom experience, preparing them for successful careers in education.

Master of Science in Leadership & Supervision

The Master of Science in Leadership & Supervision at Young Harris College is an accelerated graduate program designed for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership and supervisory skills. This program focuses on developing dynamic and confident leaders ready to take on new challenges. It is delivered entirely online, allowing flexibility for working professionals.

Mathematics, Bachelor of Science Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at Young Harris College introduces students to a wide range of theoretical and applied mathematical fields. The program requires intensive study in core areas such as real analysis and abstract algebra, preparing graduates for diverse postgraduate and professional paths. The skills developed, including logical reasoning, precise thinking, and creative problem-solving, are valuable assets for almost any career.

Music Education with Choral Emphasis, Bachelor of Arts

The Music Education with Choral Emphasis program at Young Harris College aims to prepare students to become effective music educators for K-12 levels. The curriculum integrates rigorous music instruction, performance opportunities, pedagogical practice, and educational methods studies with essential field experiences. Students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the interpretation of musical scores and texts, fostering both academic understanding and artistic expression. This Bachelor of Arts degree provides a strong foundation for graduate studies and diverse career paths in music education.

Music, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Music program at Young Harris College is designed to cultivate your performance skills on your primary instrument to a high artistic level. You will also develop pedagogical skills in your chosen area. Graduates will be able to analyze musical literature, understand its cultural context, and articulate their insights thoughtfully. This degree prepares students for a variety of graduate school and career paths, including further studies in music, law, medicine, business, or communications, due to the strong emphasis on performance and communication.

Outdoor Studies, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Outdoor Studies at Young Harris College provides a comprehensive foundation in the philosophical, theoretical, and practical aspects of outdoor, environmental, and experiential leadership and education. This program prepares students for diverse career paths and graduate studies, particularly in fields related to recreation, education, personal development, and therapeutic settings. Located in the scenic mountains, streams, and lakes of North Georgia, Young Harris College offers an ideal environment for exploration, growth, and hands-on learning. The program emphasizes a holistic approach, supporting each student's journey within a caring and engaged community.