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The information shared here is intended to provide an overview of Georgia State University’s offerings. For official details on admissions requirements, tuition, courses and more please refer to the university catalogs.
Social Work, B.S.W.
Andrew Young School of Policy Studies
Social workers fight for social justice, help children and families, improve connections in communities and improve lives. It’s a noble profession and it can lead to a rewarding career for you. Jobs are numerous, including roles in hospitals, community health centers, schools, homeless shelters, nursing homes and nonprofit organizations. The bachelor of social work will prepare you for entry level work with these types of employers and also will make you ready to enter a master of social work program in the future. Our curriculum is focused on nine competencies that are connected to our accreditation and licensure rules in Georgia. You will have a foundation for understanding human behavior in a variety of different contexts and social settings. You will practice methods for intervention with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations, and systems. The curriculum is designed to develop your skill in: critical thinking and ethics intervention approaches with diverse populations understanding of human functioning and the social environment practice evaluation and research. Getting started: You can apply to the BSW program for admission after you completed your lower division classes, which typically takes two years. You can start at Georgia State as an “Exploratory Social Work” status student while you gather the necessary credits and then apply to be a BSW student the spring before your junior year. Your success matters: You will work with the undergraduate advisement center throughout your time at Georgia State to make sure you are enrolling in the correct courses. Georgia State Baccalaureate Social Work Program Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes.
Social Work, M.S.W.
Andrew Young School of Policy Studies
The Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program strives to prepare students for social work leadership roles in the effort to solve, in partnerships with others, the existing and developing challenges that confront communities in the United States and internationally. Community partnerships, based on a generalist practice model, is the sole focus of the M.S.W. program. Students in the Community Partnerships specialization are educated to advance the needs and capacities of the total community by promoting social and economic justice and maximizing human potential. They are educated to commit themselves to addressing the life circumstances, such as poverty, violence, discrimination and disparities in social and economic justice that fall disproportionately on vulnerable groups and challenge the spirit of the entire community. This unique focus provides students with the opportunity to learn about social issues facing urban communities through a social and economic justice framework. Our graduates have become leaders in various service delivery sectors, including health care, public child welfare services, non profit management and numerous other contexts. Georgia State Master's Social Work Program Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes
Sociology Pathway, A.A.
Perimeter College
What Is Sociology? Sociology, one of the youngest of the social sciences, is the study of social interaction, social change and the social causes and consequences of group behavior. The range of topics explored by sociologists is broad, including social stratification and inequality, race relations, gender and sexuality, marriage and family, crime and violence, economics and politics, and religion. Why Study Sociology? Students studying sociology explore fascinating and controversial topics such as crime, deviance, social inequity, gender roles, family life, racism and prejudice, globalization, work and occupations. Understanding what drives human interactions gives students a new perspective on their place in society. By studying social relationships and exploring controversial topics, students will have a greater understanding of the forces that drive social behaviors and have the opportunity to make a positive impact on society. Sociologists often examine and address issues related to: Domestic Violence Poverty Homelessness Government Assistance Programs Refugees A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor's degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.
Sociology, B.A.
Sociology is the study of society, including identities, cultures, and institutions, and particularly the power dynamics that animate societal structures and social interactions. Sociology uses data and theory to analyze the causes, processes, and consequences of social ideologies, social behaviors, institutional discourses, and institutional practices. Undergraduate students in our courses critically explore topics like race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, urbanization, health, illness, wealth, deviance, social problems, inequality and activism. Specialty Areas: Health & Life Course Gerontology Gender & Sexuality Race & Urban
Sociology, Dual B.A./M.A.
Sociology, Dual B.A./M.A.
College of Arts & Sciences
The B.A. /M.A. Program is appropriate for qualified Georgia State University undergraduate students who have completed two years as a Sociology major with a GPA of 3.5. Students may pursue a dual Bachelor of Arts in sociology and either a Master of Arts in Sociology or Master of Arts in Gerontology. Dual undergraduate/graduate programs enable admitted undergraduate students to begin taking specified graduate courses during their senior year (or earlier in some cases) and count the coursework toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students in dual programs are enrolled in each degree program either concurrently or in close succession. Dual degrees may, therefore, be awarded at the same time, or one degree may be awarded prior to the second.
Sociology, Joint M.A./Ph.D.
College of Arts & Sciences
The Joint Master of Arts (M.A.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) degree program in sociology is designed for students who are entering graduate studies with a B.A. degree and for students with graduate degrees in non-social science fields. The program provides students with both a broad exposure to the discipline of sociology as well as in-depth study in special areas of expertise. The broad knowledge of sociology comes through coursework in a variety of substantive areas, as well as through training in research methodology, statistics and theory. Most of the faculty’s interest and expertise lie in six specialty areas: Gender Health Life Course Race and Ethnic Relations Sexualities Urban Studies The Sociology Department is located in the heart of Atlanta, within walking distance of the State Capitol and City Hall, and close to other major political, economic and cultural centers. This connection with a large, vibrant urban community provides an ideal learning environment for students.
Sociology, M.A.
Our standalone M.A. program trains social researchers who do not necessarily plan to pursue a career in academia. Students in this program can receive training in social research skills that can allow them to work in industry or the non-profit sector as qualitative and quantitative researchers. The Department and individual faculty members have consulted and engaged in research projects with many different agencies, including the National Science Foundation, U.S. Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, American Educational Research Association, U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Bureau of the Census, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Georgia Department of Human Resources, Georgia Narcotics Treatment Center, Georgia Mental Health Institute, Atlanta Regional Commission, the City of Atlanta Bureau of Planning, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Pew Charitable Trust and numerous other government agencies, as well as private concerns.
Sociology, Ph.D.
College of Arts & Sciences
The Ph.D.-only program is focused on producing highly skilled researchers who can perform research in both academic and non-academic environments. This program is appropriate for students who have completed a master’s degree in sociology or a closely related social science field. Students with graduate degrees in non-social science fields are accepted into our Joint M.A. /Ph.D. program. The Sociology Department is located in the heart of Atlanta, within walking distance of the State Capitol and City Hall, and close to other major political, economic and cultural centers. This connection with a large, vibrant urban community provides an ideal learning environment for students.
Special Education - High Incidence Disabilities, Minor
Special Education - High Incidence Disabilities, Minor
The Minor in Special Education High Incidence Disabilities provides undergraduate students with knowledge and experiences with the most common eligibility categories in special education. This program will explore the needs of students with behavior and/or learning disabilities (for example, learning disabilities, behavioral disorders, ADHD and mild intellectual disabilities) and will study the issues related to the settings and learning environments in which they are served. Completion of the minor does not lead to certification in special education. Students interested in teacher certification in special education should review the certification page and contact the College of Education & Human Development’s Office of Academic Assistance and undergraduate admissions.
Special Education Adapted Curriculum, Initial Certification
The Initial Certification in Special Education Adapted Curriculum course of study is for students seeking only teacher certification. Certification-only students complete a planned program that leads to a College of Education and Human Development recommendation to the Professional Standards Commission for certification kindergarten through 12th grade as a teacher of Special Education Adapted Curriculum. The focus of the coursework is students with moderate, severe and profound intellectual disability and students with autism spectrum disorders. Prior to admission, we recommend you refer to Financial Aid about possible funding options. Education programs leading to professional li ...
Special Education Endorsements
The Department of Learning Sciences offers several endorsements for advanced study in specific areas within special education for currently certified teachers or teacher candidates currently enrolled in a teacher certification program. Endorsements add to the body of knowledge that special education teachers possess and are offered as a supplement to teacher certification, rather than a replacement. Teacher candidates seeking initial certification in special education should pursue the M.A.T. in special education. Our special education endorsements include: Special Education Autism Endorsement This endorsement provides general and special education teachers with advanced knowledge in teaching students with autism. This endorsement does not replace the requirement of holding either a special education general curriculum or special education adapted curriculum certificate. Special Education Preschool Endorsement This endorsement provides special education teachers with advanced knowledge in teaching preschool-aged learners with disabilities. To be eligible for the endorsement, individuals must hold a level four (4) or higher renewable professional certificate or be concurrently enrolled in a special education teacher certification program at Georgia State. Dyslexia and Other Reading Disabilities Endorsement - Online This endorsement provides general and special education teachers along with other school-based practitioners with advanced study in dyslexia and other reading disabilities. The endorsement provides foundational reading skills and theories, and provides educators with deep and broad knowledge of instruction and assessment related to reading and writing with an emphasis on dyslexia and other reading disabilities. This endorsement is offered as a fully online endorsement for students enrolled in the dyslexia and other reading disabilities endorsement (who are not also seeking teacher certification or a higher degree). Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports Endorsement - Online This endorsement provides general and special education teachers along with other school-based practitioners with advanced study in positive behavioral interventions and support (PBIS). This provides foundational skills in PBIS theories, and provides educators with deep and broad knowledge of content, pedagogy, assessment and implementation strategies related to positive behavior intervention and supports. Candidates will apply course assignments in field-based settings, but this endorsement does not lead to certification.
Special Education Initial Certification, General Curriculum Pre-Kindergarten Through 12th Grade
The Special Education Initial Certification is a program for those who hold a bachelor's degree and are seeking initial teacher certification. You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or demonstrate an exemption and have completed the Georgia Educator Ethics – Program Entry (350) Assessment and have acquired tort liability insurance. Prior to admissions, we recommend that you refer to financial aid regarding possible funding options. Education programs leading to professional lice ...
Special Education, B.S.Ed.
The bachelor of science in education in special education degree prepares students to teach children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in schools. Students in the program work closely with faculty who have extensive experience working with children and youth with disabilities, and participate in both rigorous, practical coursework and applied classroom experiences. Teacher candidates who successfully complete the program and receive a passing score on the appropriate GACE test(s) will be certified to teach in one of three special education areas. Our graduates go on to teach in charter, public, private and specialized school settings. Our two special education certification areas are: Adapted Curriculum Students on an adapted curriculum often have a diagnosed intellectual disability, and learn academic skills and functional life skills tailored to their individual needs. In Georgia schools, students on an adapted curriculum receive most of their academic instruction in small-group settings. General Curriculum Students with disabilities in the general curriculum follow the same curriculum as their peers without disabilities, but with specialized support and accommodations to meet their needs. In Georgia schools, students on a general curriculum receive most of their academic instruction in general education classroom settings. Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending ...
Special Education, M.A.T.
College of Education & Human Development
The master of arts in teaching program in special education prepares highly qualified teachers to educate children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in schools. Students in the program learn to become leaders in the special education field, and work closely with faculty who have extensive experience working with children and youth with disabilities. The program, which offers a combination of practical courses and classroom experiences, is committed to helping teachers ensure all students grow to their fullest potential. The M.A.T. program is designed for working professionals, with classes offered in the late afternoon and evening. As a teacher candidate, you will have the opportunity to become a highly qualified teacher alongside other students in a cohort model. Teacher candidates who successfully complete the program and receive a passing score on the appropriate GACE test(s) will obtain a master’s degree and be certified to teach in one of three special education areas: Adapted curriculum, deaf education and general curriculum. Our M.A.T. degree has three different concentration areas: Adapted Curriculum Concentration Students on an adapted curriculum often have a diagnosed intellectual disability, and learn academic skills and functional life skills tailored to their individual needs. In Georgia schools, students on an adapted curriculum receive most of their academic instruction in small-group settings. This concentration focuses on effective instruction for students on an adapted curriculum from preschool to 12th grade. General Curriculum Concentration Students with disabilities in the general curriculum follow the same curriculum as their peers without disabilities, but with specialized support and accommodations to meet their needs. In Georgia schools, students on a general curriculum receive most of their academic instruction in general education classroom settings. This concentration focuses on effective instruction for students served in the general curriculum from preschool to 12th grade. Deaf Education Concentration This concentration prepares teachers to educate students who are deaf or hard of hearing, and to work in schools that use a visual language, including residential schools, day schools and public school programs. Students learn about services across a wide variety of placement options and participate in in-depth coursework and experiences that will develop their skills for teaching in multilingual settings. Graduates will be certified to teach deaf children up through 12th grade. Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, accounting, allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending on the state. Students who live or plan to live outside Georgia and are considering a professio ...
Special Education, M.Ed.
College of Education & Human Development
The Master of Education in Special Education program provides students with a depth of knowledge and breadth of skill in educating students with disabilities required of a "master teacher" or an advanced service provider. Typically, individuals who enroll in this program are classroom teachers, behavior support specialists, instructional coaches or related service providers who have experience working with students with disabilities. These experiences may be in public schools, private schools or other alternative learning environments. The M.Ed. in special education does not lead to teacher certification. Applicants to the MED should carry a teacher certification. Students seeking initial teacher certification should consider our M.A.T. in Special Education. New for 2020 – We have a new initiative that hopes to recruit, train and support graduate students interested in graduating with an M.Ed. in Special Education. Project BEES scholars will learn to address the academic, behavioral and communication needs of children with high-intensity needs, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using evidence-based practices grounded in ABA, and will receive mentoring and professional development opportunities. The program is called Project Behavioral Early Education Scholars (BEES) and it can help provide financial support as you study for this degree. Learn more about this funding opportunity. CAREERS IN THIS FIELD: Special education teachers School and district-level leaders School-based consultants Continue to Ph.D. in Special Education
Speech Communication Pathway, A.A.
Perimeter College
What Is Speech Communication? Speech communication explores the construction, diffusion, analysis and impact of messages as they occur among individuals, groups, organizations and cultures in the media age. Communication focuses on how people develop communication skills and examines communication phenomena and events. It studies how various persuasive tactics may influence members of diverse and globalized societies. Why Study Speech Communication? Speech communication offers a balanced educational curriculum of liberal arts and science courses focused on improving speaking and interpersonal skills and providing an introduction to business, intercultural and mass communication. The concepts and skills provided by speech communication are useful in a wide variety of occupations and in the world of communications. A note on pathways: A pathway is an advising guide to help students prepare for their intended bachelor's degree major. By following the course of study outlined in the appropriate Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway, students will have the necessary prerequisite courses to continue in their chosen disciplines. A pathway is not a major and will not be represented on the diploma.