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Undergraduate Programs

In today's business world, the demand for skilled and knowledgeable accounting professionals is at an all-time high. Whether you're aspiring to become a certified public accountant (CPA) or explore the realms of corporate finance, the Charles Albert Reid School of Business has a comprehensive accounting curriculum to equip you with the skills and insights needed to thrive in the ever-evolving field of accounting.

Brescia University offers both on-campus and online opportunities to complete your degree.

At Brescia University you will be able to hone your artistic expression and creativity! Whether you dream of becoming a professional artist, designer, curator, or art educator, the Humanities and Fine Arts Division curriculum is designed to empower you with the knowledge and inspiration to thrive in the world of visual arts.

The Biochemistry major rests on a rigorous curriculum that integrates chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics. In the first two years, students will engage with fundamental courses in inorganic and organic chemistry, alongside an introduction to cellular biology. This foundational knowledge is crucial for understanding the complex biochemical reactions that sustain life.

Students will also select a second biology course, choosing between anatomy and physiology—particularly valuable for those pursuing pre-health professions—or genetics, providing a broad perspective on biological systems. As you progress, our specialized biochemistry courses will bridge the concepts of chemistry and biology, deepening your understanding of the biochemical processes that underpin living organisms.

The Biology program within the Mathematics and Natural Sciences Division prepares students for various paths, including graduate school, medical or allied health professional schools, or careers in teaching, biotechnology, industrial laboratories, or environmental work. Within the Biology degree, alongside required biology, math, and other science courses, students can opt for one of three focus areas: organismal biology, molecular/cellular biology, or pre-health professional. Alternatively, they can craft a customized program to align with their specific interests and career goals.

Academic programs in the Charles Albert Reid School of Business are designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities for responsible citizenship and leadership roles in ever-changing business and society. Performance expectations are high for both students in the programs and for graduates in their careers.

Students can earn a more generalized Business degree or they may choose an emphasis in Finance and Economics, Human Resource Management, or Management.

The Bachelor of Science and Associate of Science degrees in Business and the Bachelor of Science and Certificate in Accounting are available through BUOnline. In addition, the William H. Thompson Center for Graduate Studies in Business offers: a Master of Business Administration graduate program.

The Reid School focuses its undergraduate professional courses in the final two years of the four-year degree program. We emphasize a broad educational base through a common body of business knowledge, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for the complexities of the financial world.

As a Finance and Economics major, you will explore essential topics such as financial analysis, investment strategies, economic theory, and market behavior. Our curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current trends and demands in the industry, ensuring that you acquire relevant competencies and skills that align with professional performance expectations.

The Reid School concentrates its undergraduate professional courses in the last two years of the four-year degree program. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that students not only gain a broad educational base through a common body of business knowledge but also develop expertise in their chosen field.

As a Human Resource Management major, you will refine your career options by deepening your knowledge in key areas such as recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and organizational behavior. Our faculty continuously monitor courses and curricula to ensure that the competencies and skills taught align with the demands of the professional world.

The Reid School focuses its undergraduate professional courses in the last two years of the four-year degree program, ensuring that students build a strong foundation in business principles before diving into specialized studies. Our Management program provides a broad educational base through a common body of business knowledge, complemented by in-depth exploration of management theories and practices.

As a Management major, you will engage with critical topics such as organizational behavior, strategic planning, project management, and human resource development. Our faculty continually assess and update the curriculum to align with the evolving demands of the business world, ensuring you acquire relevant competencies and skills necessary for effective leadership.

The Chemistry program, housed within the Mathematics and Natural Sciences Division, serves to prepare chemists for graduate studies, research, industry, and teaching; provide a foundational understanding of chemistry to students in related sciences; and contribute to general education by expanding students' awareness of scientific progress and its impact on their lives, society, and the environment. The program requires a minimum of thirty-two credit hours for the major. It emphasizes applying chemical principles to life sciences, though it offers curriculum tracks suitable for various career paths.

An undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders is the first step to a career as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist. Brescia's CSD program adheres to the current standards of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and provides a strong foundation for graduate study in either speech pathology or audiology. Students benefit from small class sizes, practical application of knowledge, and hands-on learning. By graduation, each student will have completed two clinical practicum experiences in the community under the supervision of licensed and practicing speech-language pathologists. CSD students leave Brescia with a well-rounded education and real-world clinical experiences. Brescia CSD graduates have gone on to study at universities throughout the state and at Brescia's Master of Science (M.S.) in Speech-Language Pathology program, where students can receive preferential acceptance.

The education that undergraduates in computer science (CS) receive must prepare them adequately for the workforce in a more holistic way than simply conveying technical facts. Indeed, soft skills (e.g., teamwork, verbal and written communication, time management, problem solving, flexibility) and personal attributes (risk tolerance, collegiality, patience, work ethic, identification of opportunity, sense of social responsibility, appreciation of diversity) play a critical role in the workplace.

At Brescia University, our Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program is designed to equip aspiring educators with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to thrive in today’s diverse classrooms. Our comprehensive curriculum focuses on the development of effective teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, and an understanding of child development.

The Associate of Science degree in Engineering Studies provides a rigorous course of study in the prerequisites of a four-year engineering program. The A.S. in Engineering studies is designed to be able to transfer coursework to an institution offering a B.S. degree in Engineering. Students should work with their academic advisor and other institutions to verify transfer credits.

The study of literature and language encourages clarity and originality of thought and expression and fosters the growth of individual moral and aesthetic judgment. Brescia English majors are employed in a variety of satisfying careers, including teaching, public relations, creative writing, college administration, business, library science, and law. English faculty sponsor the Ichabod Society, which organizes social and cultural events throughout the academic year, as well as a literary journal that publishes creative writing produced by Brescia University students.

The Emphasis in Professional Writing is designed to prepare students for careers in journalism, public relations, and communications. Any students interested in pursuing graduate studies after college, especially in fields such as business, social sciences, social work, law, and the sciences may be interested in completing a minor in professional writing to prepare them for success in graduate school. Course work in this area has broad-based applications to virtually every career and will prepare students who complete course work in this field with essential communication skills for the workplace of the 21st century.

The Financial Mathematics major, which is interdisciplinary among the Mathematics, Computer Science, and Economics/Finance programs, prepares students for careers in the financial services and actuarial industries. Possible rewarding careers resulting from this major include financial planner, private wealth manager, investment manager (for a mutual fund, pension plan, or endowment), and actuary.

There is currently a serious shortage of individuals who have sufficient training in mathematics and statistics as well as an understanding of business and finance/economics. Companies that employ operations research analysts or actuaries cannot fill their positions. Mathematical Finance and related areas have often been referred to as engineering for the service sector or “financial engineering.” With the ever-increasing importance of the service section in the current economy, this mathematical finance degree will prove to be a valuable asset. The program will give the student an opportunity to study a fascinating collection of ideas and will provide the student with highly marketable skills.

The Graphic Design major, one of the specializations among the art major, concentrates on skills and creative problem solving appropriate to the design and advertising field. Current professional software packages are utilized to complete projects based on client criteria and marketing concepts. Design elements include but are not limited to typography, print media, website design and hosting, and digital animation. The Graphic Design program is supported by fine arts foundation classes and electives.

The Associate degree in Health Sciences prepares students for application into nursing school. A student in any allied health degree program works in close consultation with a pre-professional advisor to tailor a curricular course plan at Brescia to satisfy admission requirements for specific professional schools.

History is a basic discipline in any liberal arts education, with its goal to help students understand the development of the cultures, societies, and ideas that have formed the world we live in. In addition, the study of history provides a solid foundation for a variety of careers, including law, teaching, journalism, and government.

Human Services is the study and provision of human and social services to individuals and communities. This associate degree prepares students for entry-level positions in a variety of human service agencies. Students will acquire skills needed to work with individuals, groups, and communities and learn to work with people of diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. Major subject requirements are in the fields of sociology, psychology, biology, and social work. Majors should contact the Area Coordinator.

The purpose of the integrated studies major is to offer students the freedom and responsibility to develop individualized programs. This major provides a broad educational experience that is more flexible than traditional programs, and it provides an opportunity for students to concentrate on a combination of areas that Brescia University may not offer as individual majors. Upon completion of Integrated Studies requirements, the B.A. or B.S. degree is conferred according to the University standards for those degrees. Advising for the Integrated Studies degree is done in consultation with appropriate area advisors.

Because of its interdisciplinary nature, the Integrated Studies major cannot be awarded simultaneously with a major or minor in a separate academic area.

The Associate of Art or Science in Integrated Studies at Brescia University allows students the ability to create a customized program to help them meet their personal and career goals. Students experience a broad education and learn a number of critical skills, including communication and math literacy.

The mathematics curriculum at Brescia University combines concern for maximizing the learning of each individual and an interdisciplinary approach into a program that balances traditional mathematical theory, creative problem solving processes, and development of applied models to solve real problems. It prepares students for meaningful careers in both industry and teaching or for graduate study. The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics is offered, as well as a minor in mathematics.

The Mathematics faculty also teach key courses within the multidisciplinary Financial Mathematics Bachelor of Science degree.

The Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science includes a strong foundation in biology, along with a 12-month internship in an approved local hospital setting. Graduates typically work in medical lab.

The Bachelor of Science in Middle School Education program at Brescia University is designed for those passionate about teaching young adolescents in grades 5-9. Our curriculum focuses on the unique developmental needs of middle school students and prepares you to be an effective educator in today’s dynamic learning environments.

Choose two specialty areas from English, Social Studies, Mathematics, and Science, allowing you to tailor your education to your interests and career goals.

At Brescia University, our Bachelor of Science in P-12 Education program prepares you to teach students from preschool through 12th grade. This comprehensive program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to foster learning and growth in diverse educational settings, ensuring you can make a positive impact at every stage of a child's educational journey.

Our program blends coursework in educational theory, child development, and effective teaching practices, giving you a well-rounded foundation for teaching in various environments.

Political science studies the relationships between governments and individuals, group behaviors related to domestic and international conflict and cooperation; processes and parties involved in domestic policymaking; and issues and actors involved in the international environment. Political science also helps us understand what our rights and responsibilities are as citizens of our localities, states, countries, and the world. The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree presents students with an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dominant fields within the political science discipline. The degree prepares students for a wide spectrum of jobs in local, state, and federal governments; domestic and international nonprofit organizations; law, business, and journalism sectors, and educates them to become responsible and knowledgeable citizens.

The Associate of Arts degree in Political Science prepares students for a wide spectrum of entry-level jobs in local, state, and federal agencies; nonprofit organizations; and the business sector. Furthermore, students who choose to continue their education beyond an Associate’s degree in Political Science will be well equipped for the Bachelor’s degree in many fields related to the Social Sciences.

Admission to a college of pharmacy typically requires courses in English, mathematics, chemistry, biology, economics, and the humanities. To fulfill R.Ph. degree requirements, most colleges of pharmacy recommend the 2-3 plan, (two years of college work followed by three years of professional work in a college of pharmacy). To fulfill Ph.D. degree requirements, many colleges of pharmacy recommend the 2-4 plan, (two years of college work followed by four years of professional work in a college of pharmacy). The student is advised to seek out and fulfill the pre-professional requirements of the college of pharmacy to which he/she intends to apply.

The following two-year sequence includes the courses required for admission to all colleges of pharmacy

As part of a liberal arts education, a psychology major will help students gain general knowledge and understanding of the world in which they live. The general goal of the program is to offer students a foundation in the history, principles, and methods of the science of psychology. At Brescia, you'll explore the fascinating world of psychology through hands-on learning, personalized mentorship, and real-world experiences.

Students in the psychology program can take courses such as forensic psychology, health psychology, psychology of fear, and more!

Graduates of Brescia University with a bachelor’s degree are eligible to receive preferential acceptance into the Brescia University Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program.  Students who have a minimum overall grade point average of 3.50 may be automatically admitted into the MS in Clinical Psychology Program and do not have to submit a personal statement.

The Associate of Science in Psychology provides students an introduction to Psychology and provides a strong foundation for multiple career paths. Students can also continue on to the Bachelor’s degree of Psychology and Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology at Brescia University.

The emphasis in sports is available for psychology majors who are interested in pursuing careers related to sports or who want to enhance their own athletic performance. While this emphasis does not lead to a specific profession, it aims to equip students with psychological knowledge pertinent to sports-related topics.

Psychology majors opting for the sports emphasis will fulfill the requirements of the psychology major and complete an additional 15 credit hours from the selected courses listed below.

Additionally, non-psychology majors can enroll in courses within this emphasis as free electives. However, they must complete PSY 105 before registering for any of the emphasis courses.

At Brescia University, our Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education program is designed for individuals eager to teach and inspire students in grades 8-12. With a strong focus on academic excellence and ethical teaching practices, this program prepares you to become a knowledgeable and compassionate educator in a variety of subject areas.

 Choose to major in one of several disciplines, including Biology, English, Mathematics, or Social Studies, and develop expertise in your chosen field.

The Social Studies degree option at Brescia University offers an interdisciplinary approach, exploring various dimensions of the person such as economics, history, psychology, and political science. This holistic program provides students a comprehensive understanding of societal dynamics. It equips future educators with versatile competencies across multiple subjects, enriching their ability to teach effectively in secondary education settings. Students have the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Social Studies, paving the way for a diverse and insightful academic journey.

The Marilyn Younger Conley School of Social Work at Brescia University presents a Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W) degree program, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Our B.S.W. equips students with the skills, knowledge, and values essential for generalist social work practice and aligned with the 2022 CSWE Competencies. The B.S.W. degree is offered in both in-person and online formats, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for students from any location aspiring to make a difference with a career in social work.

Social Work is a profession dedicated to addressing social issues and enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and society. Our B.S.W. program supports Brescia University’s mission by placing strong emphasis on student-centered learning, an ethics of care, and an appreciation of all peoples.

Students in Brescia’s B.S.W. program can also explore opportunities to serve in child welfare through the CW Prep program and continue their education in Brescia University’s Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program. With a B.S.W. from Brescia, students are eligible for a B.S.W. level state licensure exam and can pursue graduate studies in social work with advanced standing.

Graduates of Brescia University with a bachelor’s degree are eligible to receive preferential acceptance. Students who have a minimum grade point average of 3.50 in their major (and for BSW graduates, a grade of “A” in SW 406 Field II) may be automatically admitted into the Master of Social Work Program.

Brescia University’s Bachelor of Science in Special Education program is dedicated to preparing compassionate and skilled educators to work with children and young adults who have diverse and exceptional learning needs. This program equips you with the tools to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with various disabilities.

The program includes courses leading to P-12 certification and grades 8-12 endorsement in Learning and Behavior Disorders, focusing on specific learning disabilities, emotional or behavioral disorders, and more.

Students seeking certification in Special Education can pursue a major in Elementary, Middle School, or Secondary Education, allowing for a well-rounded teaching credential.

Note: Students pursuing Special Education Certification at Brescia University must seek Kentucky teacher certification in one or more of the following combinations:

  • LBD, grades P–12, and Elementary Education, grades P–5; OR
  • LBD, grades P–12, and Middle School, grades 5–9

The Theology Program at Brescia University is deeply rooted in the Roman Catholic faith tradition, embodying the principles outlined in the Second Vatican Council. Our curriculum is dedicated to fostering ecumenism, promoting religious liberty, delving into the rich sources of the Catholic tradition, and reaffirming traditional religious vocations.

Within our Theology curriculum, students have the opportunity to pursue various paths:

  1.     Fulfillment of requirements for a major or minor in Theology.
  2.     Completion of major subject requirements and electives for a degree in Theology with an Emphasis in Pastoral Studies.
  3.     Fulfillment of requirements for an area of emphasis in the Integrated Studies major.
  4.     Satisfaction of the University’s General Education Requirements.

The Theology Program is grounded in the Roman Catholic faith tradition and reflects the Second Vatican Council’s commitments to ecumenism, religious liberty, a deeper study of the wellsprings of the sources of the Catholic tradition, and a reaffirmation of traditional religious vocations. This associate’s degree provides the foundation of knowledge and skills and will prepare graduates to continue to Brescia University’s Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. Supported by a strong liberal arts tradition, Brescia students are empowered to aspire to an independent spirit, creative adaptability to change, and openness to lifelong learning.

The Theology with an Emphasis in Pastoral Studies degree (1) prepares students desiring to enter a vocation of Lay Ecclesial Ministry upon graduation; (2) prepares students to study theology and ministry at the graduate level in preparation for a vocation to Lay Ecclesial Ministry or religious life; and (3) offers an opportunity for a double major for students interested in theology and ministry but who have decided on a different career path. This degree is available both on campus and as an online program.