School Details
Columbus State University is a center for advanced teaching, research, and cultural engagement in Columbus, Georgia. This four-year public institution seeks to empower students as they accomplish academic, personal and professional goals in a rigorous learning environment. Students develop into leaders of ethical values and innovative solutions through Columbus State.
CSU online offers undergraduate and graduate programs to adult learners in need of flexibility in scheduling. Earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree through fully online or blended course formats. Programs include business, communication, education, healthcare, and more. Take advantage of online learning today with Columbia State University.
Offered online at CSU:
- Online faculty support
- Disability services
- Effective course design and teaching strategies
Accreditation & Licensing
Columbus State University is accredited by:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
The online BA in Liberal Arts degree program from Columbus State University is designed for students seeking a flexible, broad interdisciplinary program as opposed to a discipline-specific program of study. The program offers a Humanities and Social Science Track, as well as a Military and Global Issues Track. The Military Track may be of particular interest to military personnel, but is open to all students. Overall, the curriculum covers topics in communication, English, education, theatre, art, philosphy, foreign language, sociology, economics, and interdisciplinary studies.
Business
The online Bachelor of Arts in Communication, built upon the theoretical foundations of interpersonal, group, and rhetorical communication, explores concepts and applications designed for students wanting careers in organizational communication, training and development, and rhetorical analysis. It is an excellent preparation program for students wishing to continue their educations in a variety of graduate and professional schools.
Students develop:
- Communication and production skills
- Research and critical analysis skills
- Adaptability in responding to persons and situations
- Knowledge of communication history and theory
The online Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in General Business offers a solid background in business fundamentals while allowing students to select courses that most directly relate to their businesses or careers, either those that they are already working in or careers they aspire to. Courses teach knowledge of human resources planning and managing, decision-making based on value priorities and perceptions, budgeting analysis, and critical thinking. Students also learn skills in communication, information technology, global business, and problem-solving in a business context.
The online Master of Public Administration is designed for those with professional goals related to public service in areas such as government agencies, health organizations, justice administration and law enforcement, as well as non-profit organizations and the private sector. The program provides professional education and leadership skills for effective, efficient, and responsive public service necessary for individuals preparing for, or currently serving in, public service careers.
Students learn to:
- Participate in and contribute to the public policy process
- Think critically
- Articulate and apply a public service perspective
- Communicate effectively
- Interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry
With the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership degree online, students learn skills to help organizations thrive. The curriculum blends elements of business, communications, psychology, politics, and sociology. Instructors teach methods for leading teams, planning and implementing goals, and using research and data to make strategic decisions. Students learn leadership theories, challenges, and best practices and how to collaborate with a diverse, multicultural workforce.
Students choose a track in:
- Human resources management
- Leader development
- Servant leadership
The online master’s in organizational leadership program from Columbus State University features small class sizes, one-on-one interaction with instructors, and an internship opportunity.
Computer Science & IT
The online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science provides students with a solid foundation in working with various aspects of current and emerging technology. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a variety of positions including software engineers, programmers, developers, information security, and many more.
The concentration in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning gives students experience working with human-computer interface development, data visualization and presentation, and intelligent systems. Students can choose to complete a thesis or non-thesis track for this computer information systems online degree.
Core classes within the degree program include:
- Survey of modeling and simulation
- Algorithms analysis and design
- Object-oriented development
- Cybersecurity
The online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science provides students with a solid foundation in working with various aspects of technology. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a variety of positions including software engineers, programmers, developers, information security, and many more.
The concentration in Software Development provides an overview of contemporary issues in database management systems, as well as computer language design and interpretation. Additionally, electives offer courses in mobile, web, and software technologies. Students can choose to complete a thesis or non-thesis track for this Computer Science degree online.
Core classes within the online Software Development degree program include:
- Survey of modeling and simulation
- Algorithms analysis and design
- Object-oriented development
- Introduction to Cybersecurity
The online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science provides students with a solid foundation in working with various aspects of technology. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a variety of positions including software engineers, programmers, developers, information security, and many more.
The Traditional concentration provides an overview of topics such as operating systems design and implementation and computer language design and interpretation. Additionally, courses discuss contemporary issues in database management systems, intelligent systems, and network and cloud management. Students can choose to complete a thesis or non-thesis track.
Core classes within the degree program include:
- Survey of modeling and simulation
- Algorithms analysis and design
- Object-oriented development
- Cybersecurity
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
You can learn to view crime as a social phenomenon with the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Columbus State University. The online criminal justice degree helps you perceive how complex political and economic factors shape justice.
Through the online criminal justice bachelor’s degree program, you develop real-world skills in crime and our legal system. Your online studies examine such topics as:
- Victimology
- Corrections theory
- Investigative methods
- Communicable skills
The online Master of Science in Applied Computer Science provides students with a solid foundation in working with various aspects of technology. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a variety of positions including software engineers, programmers, developers, information security, and many more.
The concentration in Cybersecurity provides an overview of topics such as operating systems design and implementation and network and cloud management. Additionally, electives offer courses in network security, risk management, crisis management, and software quality assurance. Students can choose to complete a thesis or non-thesis track for this Computer Science degree online.
Core classes within the online Cybersecurity degree program include:
- Survey of modeling and simulation
- Algorithms analysis and design
- Object-oriented development
- Introduction to Cybersecurity
You can fight cybercrime with the Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Columbus State University. The online cybersecurity degree can lead to professional careers like:
- IT controls assessor
- Management consultant
- Regulatory governance lead
- Policy and compliance analyst
Through the online cybersecurity master’s degree program, you learn to detect, eliminate, and prevent security threats. Students select a concentration area of Cyber Defense or Management.
Education
Enroll in online higher education degrees and enhance professional opportunities. Gain professional expertise in leadership within the education field, including preparing for administrative roles. Learn about school improvement, research, and professional learning as you gain the skills necessary to improve student achievement in schools using leadership frameworks, curriculum models, and instructional practices supported by research.
Those in the Higher Education Administration track are able to complete the program 100% online. Through synchronous and asynchronous courses, you will prepare for leadership positions within colleges and universities.
This track does not lead to teacher certification.
Become a leader in education with this online education administration degree. This Tier II program is designed for those seeking to become a building principal, an assistant superintendent, or a superintendent of a school district. Graduates will need to take the PASL Assessment to achieve the certification upgrade.
Courses in this online education administration degree are designed to prepare system-level leaders who can effectively address district-level educational issues. Learn to apply theory and research-based practices while learning about the functions of school districts, including:
- Curriculum
- Instruction
- Management
- School Law
- Public Relations
All students work with a mentor who is a current building principal or district-level administrator, seeing how what they learn in class works in the real world.
Advance your career with this online elementary education degree. This program is designed for experienced teachers with a T-5 teaching certificate and a valid teaching license. Develop content and pedagogical expertise while seeking to influence educational decisions outside their classrooms. Students learn to evaluate and implement curriculum theory, developmentally appropriate instructional strategies, and assessment methods and techniques for diverse learners. Support their learning styles and environments using contemporary theory and research. In five or six semesters, students are prepared to make ethical decisions in early childhood environments, selecting and using various technological resources for instruction, management, media development, and problem-solving.
Enroll in secondary education degree online programs and enhance professional opportunities. Designed for experienced teachers with a T-5 teaching certificate, this program prepares students to work with grades 6-12. Develop content and pedagogical expertise while learning how to influence educational decisions outside the classroom.
Customize your degree by choosing between these concentrations:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Science
In as few as five semesters of study, students graduate as leaders in education.
Advance your knowledge and career with this online STEM teaching degree. Take your level 4 or higher Clear Renewable teaching certificate to the next level by adding this endorsement to your credentials.
Courses are comprised of math content and pedagogy. They may include:
- Applications in Arithmetic and Algebra for K-5 Teachers
- Applications in Geometry and Measurement for K-5 Teachers
- Applications in Data Analysis and Probability for K-5 Teachers
With an online STEM teaching degree, students can balance their education with other obligations. Study where it is convenient without moving to campus.
This online STEM degree is designed for those seeking to change careers and who are interested in entering the teaching profession. Earn a Computer Science certification in grades P-12. Learn to plan inquiry-based construction and use a wide range of instructional strategies. Students will become proficient in developing and using multiple forms of assessment and using this data to improve teaching and learning for all levels of learners.
This curriculum is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Climb the career ladder with this online STEM teaching degree. This degree is designed for those seeking to change careers and who are interested in entering the teaching profession. Professionals can earn an Earth/Space Science certification in grades 6-12.
Learn to plan inquiry-based construction and use a wide range of instructional strategies. Students will become proficient in developing and using multiple forms of assessment and using this data to improve teaching and learning for all levels of learners. This curriculum is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Are you interested in entering the teaching profession? If so, check out this online STEM teaching degree. It is designed for those seeking to change careers and who are interested in entering the teaching profession. Professionals can earn a Mathematics certification in grades 6-12.
Learn to plan inquiry-based construction and use a wide range of instructional strategies. Students will become proficient in developing and using multiple forms of assessment and using this data to improve teaching and learning for all levels of learners. This curriculum is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Are you interested in beginning a teaching career? If so, check out this online STEM teaching degree. It is designed for those seeking to change careers and who are interested in entering the teaching profession. Professionals can earn a Physics certification in grades 6-12.
Learn to plan inquiry-based construction and use a wide range of instructional strategies. Students will become proficient in developing and using multiple forms of assessment and using this data to improve teaching and learning for all levels of learners. This curriculum is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Educators from a broad range of subject areas and classroom environments can enroll in the online master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction – Accomplished Teaching in order to advance their career goals. Professionals have an opportunity to interact and gain leadership skills through a collaborative online environment.
This degree program is coordinated through the University System of Georgia and offered in partnership through:
- Columbus State University
- Georgia Southern University
- Valdosta State University
Move into a leadership position with this online master’s in education administration. This program prepares students for positions as assistant principals. Courses emphasize student achievement and real-world decision-making processes, which are critical to the success of school leaders. Learn to advocate, nurture, and sustain a school culture and instructional program that is conducive to student learning and staff professional growth. The curriculum also teaches students about the management of the organization, operations, and resources for a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment. Graduates will be able to integrate new technologies into the instructional programs through the innovative use of technology.
Advance your credentials and career with this online elementary education degree. This program is designed for teachers with T-4 teaching certificates in elementary education.
The curriculum includes professional and pedagogical studies. Learn about the knowledge, skills, and habits of accomplished teachers in a curriculum that was approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Graduates may apply to upgrade teacher certification to the T-5 level.
With this online elementary education degree, students have the flexibility needed to successfully balance their careers and educations. Study wherever it is convenient without going to campus for courses.
Advance your career with this online physical education degree. This program is designed for those with a clear renewable T-4 teaching certificate. Graduates may apply to upgrade teacher certification to the T-5 level.
Complete advanced professional and pedagogical studies, developing expertise in the knowledge, skills, and habits of accomplished teachers. The curriculum covers an advanced knowledge base of the health and physical education disciplines. Learn about different styles of teaching, ways to utilize technology in the classroom, and ways to conduct and use research to improve teaching.
Designed for teachers, this online special education degree provides advanced knowledge on this topic. This program helps teachers take their educations and careers to the next level. The curriculum consists of professional and pedagogical studies. Learn about the philosophical, historical, and legal foundations of Special Education. Students gain an understanding of the developmental, behavioral, and learning needs of children with special needs. Communication and collaboration with parents and community agencies are also studied. Graduates can integrate technology into instructional planning, establish and manage appropriate learning environments, and understand and implement effective teaching strategies and methods for children with special needs.
Prepare to extend your influence beyond the classroom with this online educational leadership degree. This program is designed for certified educators who want to remain teaching while simultaneously extending their influence beyond the classroom. Improve your knowledge and skills in teaching and leadership, developing expertise in leading other educators to improve teaching and learning across all subjects and grade levels.
Examine the expanded roles and responsibilities of teachers. This includes:
- Data-driven assessment
- Making decisions for school improvement
- Leading professional learning communities
- Applying research to practice
Prepare to make a difference, improving teaching and learning, while learning how to best collaborate with families and the community.
The online Online Teaching Endorsement program is designed to prepare students to design and teach content in online and/or blended environments. Some or all of the courses may be applied toward a degree as electives. Courses are:
- Foundations of Online Teaching and Learning
- Effective Online Instructional Practices
- Integrating Mobile Technologies into Learning Environments
- Implementation and Assessment of Online Teaching and Learning
Enroll in online literacy programs and enhance professional opportunities. Take your P-12 teaching certificate to the next level by adding this endorsement to your credentials.
Students complete such courses as:
- Psychology of Reading: Understanding Readers and the Reading Process
- Integrating Literacy Strategies in the Middle Grades
- Methods and Materials for Teaching Reading in P-5 and Special Education
- Assessment and Classroom Instruction
With these online literacy programs, students are able to balance their educations with other obligations. Study where it is convenient without moving to campus.
Become a leader with this online educational leadership degree. Take your professional teaching, service, or leadership certificate to the next level by adding this endorsement to your credentials.
Not only will you complete internships, but you will complete such courses as:
- Supervision of the Learning Environment
- Developing Teacher Leaders
- Assessment to Improve Teaching and Learning
With this online educational leadership degree, students can balance their educations with other obligations. Study where it is convenient without moving to campus.
Healthcare
Advance your career with these online health informatics degree programs. Gain hands-on experiences solving problems in healthcare. Courses cover such topics as:
- Process improvement
- Project management
- Systems analysis and design
- Decision support
- Database management
- Data analysis
With this online degree students enjoy a large amount of flexibility. Study when and where you want, successfully balancing your education and your career.
Nursing
The online RN to BSN degree completion program from Columbus State University provides registered nurses with the advanced education and skills required to expand their careers and/or pursue graduate studies. With a focus on the evidence-based practice process, coursework explores topics such as:
- Professional development
- Pathophysiology
- Health assessment
- Disease control
- Global health issues
- Disaster response
The online MSN degree program from Columbus State University prepares professional registered nurses for advanced practice nursing roles. Three concentrations are available for students to customize their degree based on their personal interests and professional goals:
- Nursing Education – facilitate learning in various environments through the application of knowledge in instructional design, curriculum development, technology utilization, and evaluation of learning
- Leadership – influence, design, manage, transform, and evaluate the evolution of nursing services and care delivery
- Informatics – become proficient in health information technology and essential informatics competencies
The online MSN / Family Nurse Practitioner degree program from Columbus State University is designed to allow registered BSN nurses to complete their MSN degree conveniently and efficiently while continuing their career. Graduates are able to:
- Implement advanced practice roles as practitioners within the nursing profession and the health care system utilizing human caring as foundation for nursing practice
- Develop and nurture collaborative and interdependent relationships by communicating with other health care professionals
- Analyze personal and organizational decision making utilizing an understanding of how ethics and values influence health care delivery
- Utilize nursing research for promotion of high quality nursing education, health care, and evidence based practice
- Demonstrate critical thinking application of nursing and multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks to foster optimal client health outcomes
- Demonstrate cultural competence that reflects sensitivity to human diversity
- Develop comprehensive, holistic plans of care that address health promotion
- Demonstrate competence in leadership roles and commitment to professional development
The online Graduate Certificate in Nurse Educator program from Columbus State University prepares nurses to facilitate learning in various environments through the application of knowledge in instructional design, curriculum development, technology utilization, and evaluation of learning. Courses are taught online and students shadow experienced nursing faculty in their community.