The Geographic Science program empowers, inspires and motivates students to become competent critical thinkers prepared for life-long learning. Students will be able to respond to intellectual challenges with interest, excitement and competence and see themselves as global citizen actively involved in the world around them.
The Geology major offers specialized study focusing on earth materials, internal and external earth processes, analysis of earth history and appreciation of geology to environmental and engineering issues. The program provides a strong theoretical background in geology while allowing students flexibility in choosing courses to prepare for a specific career in the geological sciences. Graduates have attained employment as geologists and environmental scientists, as well as entry into prestigious graduate schools.
The graphic design program provides a professional education with an interdisciplinary approach. Program objectives for the graphic design student are:
- Articulate ideas and understand the fundamental elements and principles of graphic design while using correct terminology pertinent to the field.
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of artistic methods, craft and formal structure as vehicles to enhance a solutions communicative value.
- Demonstrate proficiency in both traditional and digital ways of making.
- Develop diverse problem-solving methodologies that combine theory, research, analytical skills and conceptualization to create effective graphic design solutions.
- Develop a professional graphic design portfolio reflective of one's knowledge and abilities that encompasses the contemporary design market.
The B.S. in Health Sciences degree is designed for students interested in understanding the causes of disease, strategies for promoting wellness and behavior change, and the scientific basis and methodologies for analysis of health concerns.
This master's program permits students to major in health sciences with a concentration in nutrition and physical activity. This graduate program has been planned for registered dietitians or persons with an undergraduate degree in dietetics, kinesiology or a related area. This program is designed for the student who has an interest in nutrition and its role in physical activity and wellness.
The Health Services Administration program prepares students for entry-level administrative positions and administrative staff support roles in various health organizations such as hospitals, hospital systems, ambulatory clinics, physician practices, nursing homes and managed care organizations. Health services administration is a dynamic and rewarding profession that combines students' interest in health, business and serving others.
The History program blends core requirements with great choice permitting students to pursue particular interests while developing a broad understanding of the historic past. Students will have the opportunity to design, in consultation with faculty advisers, approximately two-thirds of their program to suit their needs and interests. The major offers students an opportunity for independent research and to present their findings at regional or national conferences. History prepares students for a broad range of challenging careers.
Whether it’s on a Civil War battlefield, inside a nineteenth-century farmhouse, or in a bustling downtown, the Shenandoah Valley offers rich opportunities for graduate students not just to learn about history, but also to experience it. An easy drive from the nation’s capital, JMU gives students the chance to conduct research, hold internships, and establish careers in some of the most renowned archives, libraries, and museums in the world. Our students enjoy small classes and close interactions with their professors, creating an encouraging environment that invites students to succeed in PhD programs; careers in education, public history, and government; or whatever path they take.
The Hospitality Management major is designed to develop hospitality management leaders through sound theoretical coursework, innovative learning activities, mentoring opportunities, exposure to premier hospitality organizations and interactions with dynamic industry professionals. Major requirements are met through small classes, team learning experiences, and meaningful personal contacts with faculty and industry professionals. In the major, students will complete a supervisory internship prior to graduation.
Independent scholars is a self-designed major open to students who are honors-eligible. In consultation with the IS faculty and a faculty mentor from another academic unit, each student devises a curriculum, plans research and field study, and conducts independent research. The major is aimed at students who are strongly self-motivated and research-oriented, and who cannot address their interests sufficiently within any of the existing majors or minors at JMU.