Programs

Elementary Education, B.A.

This Bachelor of Arts program equips you with the skills to teach and coordinate educational programs for children aged 7-12 (grades 2-6). You'll gain practical experience through placements in diverse school settings and partnered school districts. The program prepares you for various teaching environments and is recognized by the South Carolina State Board of Education. Columbia College is also a participating institution in the Call Me MiSTER program, supporting teachers from under-served communities, and a Teaching Fellows Institution, fostering leadership qualities in aspiring educators.

English, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in English program fosters a deep appreciation for humanistic thought and inclusive perspectives. You will develop advanced critical reading and thinking abilities, alongside strong written communication skills. This degree prepares you for postgraduate studies and a wide array of careers, including copywriting, filmmaking, journalism, public relations, law, library sciences, editing, authorship, and teaching.

English/Language Arts Middle Level Education, Bachelor of Arts

This Bachelor of Arts program in English/Language Arts Middle Level Education prepares you to teach students in grades 5-8. You will combine a strong foundation in English and literary studies with essential pedagogical methods for teaching middle schoolers. The program aims to foster your passion for language and literature, enabling you to inspire young learners. Graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to create engaging and effective learning environments.

Exercise Science

Exercise Science is an interdisciplinary field that examines the connection between physical activity, exercise, fitness, performance, diet, and overall health. It integrates knowledge from biology, physiology, psychology, chemistry, physics, neuroscience, genetics, nutrition, and sociology. This field is increasingly recognized for its importance in public health, medicine, and high-performance settings, with exercise playing a role in managing chronic diseases like heart disease, hypertension, obesity, type II diabetes, cancer, and mental health conditions.

Forensic Criminal Justice

The Forensic Criminal Justice program offers a concentration focused on the application of scientific principles to the criminal justice system. You will explore specialized areas such as forensic toxicology, DNA analysis, fingerprint examination, and crime scene investigation. This program equips you with the critical thinking and practical skills needed for careers in forensic science, whether in a laboratory setting or directly at crime scenes. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the components of criminal justice, legal limitations, theoretical frameworks, and adapting to evolving societal needs.

Forensic Psychology, B.S.

This interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science degree focuses on the application of behavioral analysis within the legal system. You will gain a foundational understanding of criminological theory, psychological disorders, criminal justice ethics, and personality. This program prepares you to assist law enforcement and legal professionals in forensic investigations and criminal profiling. While graduate study and licensure are typically required for professional practice as a forensic psychologist, this degree provides a strong basis for further education or entry-level roles.

Gender and Women's Studies Minor

Explore social transformation on local and global scales through the interdisciplinary field of Gender and Women's Studies. This program examines how gender intersects with other aspects of identity, such as sexuality, ethnicity, and class, drawing on perspectives from literature, sociology, history, art, and more. It offers a chance to broaden your understanding and prepare for a variety of career paths.

Global Sports Business and Leadership

Global Sports Business and Leadership, B.S.

This Bachelor of Science program offers a unique curriculum designed to immerse students in the global sports industry through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experiences. It provides a competitive edge for students entering the workforce by focusing on real-world application and global perspectives. The program emphasizes building professional networks and understanding international sports markets. Students gain early exposure to the industry through practicums, internships, and study abroad opportunities. The faculty consists of professors with extensive experience in sports management at various levels.

Hospitality Management and Experience Design, BA

This Bachelor of Arts program prepares you for a dynamic career in the hospitality industry by blending essential business principles with creativity and a focus on customer experience. You will learn to manage events, lead teams, and design exceptional experiences in sectors like hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tourism. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and internships, equipping you with practical skills to succeed in this people-focused field.

Human Development & Family Studies, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Human Development & Family Studies (HDFS) is an interdisciplinary program designed for students interested in understanding human nature and the factors that influence it. You will explore how individuals develop physically, emotionally, and socially throughout their lifespan, considering the context of family and society. This program prepares graduates for research, public service roles, or further graduate studies.

Individualized Studies

The Individualized Studies Program at Columbia College is designed for students who have a specific career goal that isn't directly met by existing majors. This program empowers you to create your own unique course of study by combining two or more academic disciplines. You will develop a detailed proposal outlining how your chosen combination of subjects will help you achieve your professional objectives, demonstrating creativity and initiative that is highly valued by employers.

Leadership Studies

The Leadership Studies program offers both a Certificate and a Minor, designed to equip you with the skills and framework for effective leadership. Through applied coursework and experiential learning, you will develop the courage, commitment, confidence, and competence essential for leadership roles. This program provides a solid foundation for success in your future career and community involvement.

Marketing (Content Creation)

This innovative degree program focuses on content creation and digital strategy, preparing you for dynamic careers in the fast-paced marketing landscape. You will learn to craft compelling brand stories, develop content across various platforms, and utilize data to build effective campaigns. The curriculum emphasizes storytelling, social media, branding, and media production, equipping you with the creative and strategic skills needed for success in fields like advertising, communications, and entertainment.

Master of Business Administration

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at Columbia College is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without pausing their work. This fully online program can be completed in as little as 12 months, offering a flexible path to gain essential strategic, financial, and leadership skills. Taught by faculty with extensive real-world experience, the program emphasizes small class sizes to ensure personalized mentorship and direct interaction. Students can tailor their MBA with concentrations in Resilience-Based Management, Contemporary Sports & Hospitality Management, or Health Administration. The curriculum focuses on practical application, preparing graduates for leadership roles in a growing job market.

Master's in Healthcare Administration

The online Master's in Healthcare Administration (MHA) program at Columbia College is designed for professionals seeking to advance into leadership roles within the healthcare sector. This 36-credit hour program equips students with essential leadership, analytical, and operational skills to effectively manage complex health service environments. It is ideal for individuals aiming to manage hospitals, clinics, public health organizations, or consulting firms. The curriculum focuses on strategic decision-making, financial management, systems thinking, and conflict resolution within a healthcare context.

Master's in Innovation in Teaching and Learning

Columbia College's Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Innovation in Teaching and Learning is designed for current and aspiring educators and support professionals. This program equips you with the skills to create engaging learning experiences by integrating innovative teaching strategies, effective assessment methods, and modern instructional technology. You will explore the various factors influencing student learning, including cultural, social, and cognitive aspects, and learn to differentiate instruction to meet diverse needs. The curriculum focuses on building on learner strengths and designing assessments that accurately measure progress. Graduates will be prepared to lead classrooms effectively and make a significant impact on student success in preK-12 settings.

Middle Level Education, B.A. (Science concentration)

Middle Level Education, B.A. certifying to teach

Minor in Athletic Coaching

The Athletic Coaching Minor at Columbia College is designed to equip aspiring coaches with advanced techniques and leadership skills, transforming a passion for sports into a rewarding career. This program blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, allowing students to explore innovative coaching methodologies, hone communication skills, and empower athletes. Students will gain a thorough comprehension of rules and regulations to lead, teach, and train effectively.

Minor in Environmental Studies

The Minor in Environmental Studies offers a flexible curriculum designed to explore the intricate relationship between humans and the natural environment. You'll gain insights into sustainable philosophies and practices, examining how innovation and creativity can foster environmental stewardship. This interdisciplinary program allows you to connect environmental issues with your primary field of study or explore personal interests.

Music, BA

The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a comprehensive foundation in music theory, contexts, and contemporary applications. You will develop a well-rounded curriculum with the flexibility to choose elective courses and ensembles that align with your personal goals. The program is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Liberal Arts and Sciences core curriculum. Graduates will be prepared for careers as performers, arrangers, studio musicians, and composers, or for further academic study in music. You'll explore diverse musical styles, including Rock, Pop, Jazz, R&B, and urban music, fostering your creative direction.