Samford University

Accounting

The accounting major provides a strong foundation in business with a specialized focus on financial reporting, taxation and auditing. Students develop the tools to succeed professionally and personally in a variety of industries.

Architecture

The architecture program at Samford combines a four-year bachelor of science in architecture with a one-year master of architecture, providing a more accelerated degree in preparation for a rewarding career in design, including architectural licensure (upon NAAB accreditation.)

Art

This degree is designed for students desiring to major in art within the framework of a liberal arts degree. The degree is intended to serve the needs of undergraduate students who are interested in a broad program of general studies and wish to also develop their artistic skills and knowledge.

Biblical Studies

The biblical studies major prepares students who are informed and competent interpreters of the Christian Scriptures with the knowledge and understanding necessary to teach others. They will be able to explain the composition and contents of the Jewish and Christian Scriptures and how they relate to the complex cultural, geographical, historical, and political contexts in which they originated.

Biochemistry

The program will provide a student with a broad background in biochemistry. A student completing this program would be equipped for an entry-level position within the biotechnology industry. A student completing this program would also be well prepared to pursue graduate work in biochemistry or a related field.

Biology

The Biology major provides a broad and deep foundation in the life sciences, spanning molecular biology, anatomy, physiology, ecology, genetics, and more, while giving students flexibility to specialize and pursue individual interests.

Brock Scholars

Samford University's Brock Scholars program is the honors program of Brock School of Business, designed for high-achieving students who want to customize their education and stretch beyond a traditional business degree.

Chemistry

The program will provide a student with a broad background in the chemical sciences. A student completing this program would be equipped for an entry-level position within the chemical industry. A student completing this program would also be well prepared to pursue graduate work in chemistry or a chemistry-related field.

Christian and Religious Studies

The Christian and religious studies major prepares students to succeed as pastors, missionaries, professors, and social workers, as well as in leadership roles in businesses and nonprofit organizations. Students explore the Bible and Christian theology, as well as the history, sociology, and philosophy of religion.

Christian Ministry

The Christian ministry major is designed for students considering a career in ministry or missions. Additionally, this program is designed for students who might have other career aspirations but understand and desire to pursue God's ministry/missions calling for Christians in all vocations.

Classics

Students earning a bachelor of arts in classics explore the cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome grounded in the comprehension of the Ancient Greek or Latin language.

Commercial Music

Samford University’s Division of Music offers a 128-hour bachelor of arts (BA) in commercial music degree with four concentrations. This program empowers students to become musicians with artistic, technological, and entrepreneurial skills to thrive in the 21st century. Students choose from one of four unique concentrations within commercial music: music industry, music production, performance, and songwriting.

Communication Sciences and Disorders

The four-year curriculum in the CSDS program is built on a foundation of rigorous academics and code of values. Our faith-based academic coursework focuses on service, leadership, and critical thinking skills. Interprofessional education experiences with students and faculty from other healthcare disciplines are also a key component of the program.

Communication Studies

The bachelor of arts in communication studies is designed to teach students about human communication in its varied contexts and modes of expression. The goal of our program is to teach students to write, speak, listen, and think critically; adapt to a wide range of audiences and cultures; successfully manage personal relationships; work effectively in groups and organizations; and conduct independent research.

Composition

Composition majors are encouraged to explore composition across an array of styles and genres from classical, contemporary and electronic, to jazz, indie rock and worship music.

Computer Science

The computer science major exposes students to a broad range of computing topics, including software development, database management, hardware architecture, and operating systems, while also giving them the opportunity to explore additional topics in computer science, such as artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, cybersecurity, and game design.

Culinary and Wellness Nutrition Management

This degree combines skills in culinary arts and wellness nutrition management. In addition to academic coursework, students have opportunities for hands-on food and science labs, research, and directed practicum experience. Students will be highly encouraged to volunteer, engage in service-based learning activities, and seek work experience in their chosen field.

Dance

The bachelor of arts degree in dance will prepare students to enter the world of the arts with performance experience and an in-depth knowledge in dance technique, developed through a broad-based liberal arts curriculum that has a Christ-centered focus.

Early Childhood/Special Education/Elementary/Collaborative

Students in the ESEC teacher education program will engage in coursework throughout the program to build a knowledge base in theoretical understanding of elementary education, early childhood education, and special education. During a student’s time at Samford, practical teaching skills to promote student learning will be developed through extensive field experiences at schools and other learning settings.

Economics (B.A.)

The economics major (BA) provides students with the tools to study how incentive structures cause people, firms, and governments to make optimal or less than optimal decisions. Students will learn how to research and analyze the marketplace by examining logical models. These models can then be applied to particular problems to predict actions that need to be taken to incentivize people, firms, and governments to react in a certain way.

Elementary Education

This program is designed to give students a broad, multidisciplinary approach to Christian education within the context of a local church or mission field. The program provides students with both the academic rigor and the practical experience necessary to successfully minister to children and youth. In addition, students will develop an awareness of how to engage families as partners in the spiritual development of children.

Engineering Physics

The Engineering Physics curriculum provides a solid foundation in classical and modern physics while integrating skills in mathematics, computer science, and laboratory research. Students are encouraged to explore, question, and create across multiple scientific disciplines.

English

The courses are designed to give students both depth and breadth in English literary studies. Students learn the works of individual authors and genres as well as broad literary movements. They demonstrate their ability to research and analyze literature in depth by writing a senior paper in the senior year.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship majors develop skills in opportunity recognition, business planning and strategic thinking through a curriculum grounded in innovation and leadership.

Environmental Science

The bachelor of science in environmental science engages students in the study of the earth and its habitable environments, with a focus on natural and physical processes that shape our planet. Students gain foundational knowledge in the natural sciences, informing them about the environment in which we live. Students majoring in environmental science choose between two tracks depending on their academic goals: conservation/stewardship or public/occupational health.

Exercise Science

The purpose of the exercise science major is to prepare students for an entry-level doctoral degree program in physical therapy. An interdisciplinary approach is applied to this major, including classes in psychology, biology, physics, chemistry, and exercise science. The courses contained within the major meet or exceed the prerequisites for most physical therapy schools.

Finance

French

The bachelor of arts in French language and literature prepares students for a variety of career and graduate school options. The program of study may be combined with essential education courses to earn teacher certification.

Game Design

The bachelor of science in game design focuses on techniques related to 3D modeling, 3D animation, programming, visual problem solving, audio, interactive storytelling, game theory, the history of game design, and game production. The program is a collaboration between the Department of Art and Design and the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science.

Geography

The GIS certificate provides a highly marketable set of technical and analytical skills used to gather, manage, and view data about geographic places, analyze spatial relationships, and model spatial processes. Geography majors may complete the geographic information science certificate.

German

The bachelor of arts in German language and literature prepares students for a variety of career and graduate school options. The program of study may be combined with essential education courses to earn teacher certification.

Global Studies Interdisciplinary

The global studies interdisciplinary major equips students with the research and critical thinking skills that can be employed in a variety of professions. In particular, students learn to assess and solve problems by taking a comparative approach and accounting for multiple perspectives. This approach is invaluable to work in law, politics, nonprofit and business administration, journalism, and vocational missions.

Graphic Design

The bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree in graphic design is designed for students pursuing a career in graphic design. The degree is considered the professional degree in the field. Students must pass a portfolio review at the end of the third semester.

Greek

Students earning a bachelor of arts in Greek engage the world of Ancient Greece by developing both their comprehension of authentic ancient Greek texts and their understanding of the historical context of those texts.

Healthcare Administration

The bachelor of science (BS) in healthcare administration is focused on developing leaders who are prepared to immediately enter the workforce or pursue a graduate degree. Students will engage in interprofessional activities, service opportunities, professional networking, and internship experiences.

Health Sciences

The health sciences major is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers or graduate programs within the broad field of health. This major is ideal for students pursuing graduate programs in athletic training, physician assistant studies, or occupational therapy. Students in this major also pursue areas such as strength and conditioning and corporate wellness, among other health professions.

History

A history major prepares students for a broad range of careers in business, law, education, religion, communications, government service both domestic and foreign), and other professions. It is excellent preparation for graduate study in history and for professional schools such as business administration and law. As a traditional major for students planning legal careers, the department offers students a strong background in western and non-western institutions and values.

Human Development and Family Science

The Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) major prepares students for careers in counseling, social services, healthcare, education and family advocacy through the study of human development, relationships and hands-on experience.

Instrumental Music

Interdisciplinary Studies

The bachelor of arts in interdisciplinary studies enables students to utilize integrative coursework that supports career ambitions, graduate study plans, or personal interests, and provides a broad educational experience.

Interior Design

Those choosing to complete their bachelor of fine arts (BFA) in interior design at Samford will engage in a curriculum sequence whose content adheres to CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation) standards. The program prepares design students to combine aesthetic values with practical needs and realities. Program graduates weigh design decisions with social, cultural, and ecological context in mind.

Journalism and Mass Communication

The journalism and mass communication major has four possible concentrations, or tracks: advertising, broadcast and electronic journalism, print journalism, and public relations. JMC students must officially declare a concentration/track.

Latin

Students earning a bachelor of arts in Latin engage the world of the ancient Romans by developing both their comprehension of authentic ancient Latin texts and their understanding of the historical context of those texts.

Law and History

The Department of History is pleased to offer a major in law and history. Students who plan to practice in almost any area of law, as well as those interested in the academic study of legal history, have much to gain from a law and history major. The study of law in historical, philosophical, and literary contexts provides a rich foundation for both practice and scholarship in all fields of law.

Management

The management major helps students build foundational business knowledge while developing the leadership skills needed in any organization. Coursework emphasizes how to identify and analyze strategic problems, think holistically about business challenges and apply ethical, Christ-centered decision-making.

Marine Science

The bachelor of science in marine science is a multidisciplinary program focused on the biological, chemical, physical, and geological processes of the ocean. Students pursuing this program must complete one semester or two five-week summer terms at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The Sea Lab is operated by the Marine Environmental Science Consortium of which Samford is an active member.

Marketing

The marketing major helps students develop expertise in areas such as marketing strategy, branding and consumer behavior. Coursework equips students to understand audiences, analyze data and create communication plans that support organizational goals.

Mathematics

Our goal is to provide you with a supportive yet challenging academic experience, where you are encouraged to develop into well-rounded mathematical thinkers. We do this through a rigorous program of study as part of a strong liberal arts education.

Musical Theatre

The bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree in musical theatre is a pre-professional program designed for students who wish to pursue a career in musical theatre. The program will provide interrelated educational experiences in music, theatre, and dance that prepare students for the production of musical theatre in the professional and academic theatre environments.

Music and Worship

The bachelor of music (BM) in music and worship is a professional degree designed for the student who wishes to pursue vocational Christian worship ministry. This may be in the role of a musician, music director, worship pastor, or worship leader in the local church. Some congregations give these individuals titles such as Minister of Music, Director of Worship Arts, Music/Worship Associate, or Music and Worship Pastor.

Music (B.A.)

The Bachelor of Arts in Music is designed for students desiring to major in music within the framework of a liberal arts degree. The degree is intended to serve the needs of undergraduate students who are interested in a broad program of general studies and who wish to develop their musical skills and knowledge.

Music (BME)

This program is designed for students preparing for a career as a K-12 music educator and leads to the Alabama Class B teaching certificate. Practical experiences in teaching music are provided in the greater Birmingham area.

Music (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science in Music is designed for students who want rigorous musical training alongside a strong foundation in science. This unique degree supports students pursuing careers or graduate study in fields such as medicine, healthcare and the sciences, while continuing high level music study.

Neuroscience Interdisciplinary

Neuroscience is the study of the structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous systems, with a special focus on the brain. The bachelor of science degree in neuroscience provides a broad foundation in understanding neural function from the perspective of molecules, cells, circuits, systems, and emergent behaviors.

Nursing

Students enrolled in the bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program in the Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing are prepared to use knowledge, critical thinking skills, and practice skills learned from both nursing and liberal arts to provide professional nursing care in a variety of clinical settings. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply for licensure as a registered nurse.

Nutrition and Dietetics

Dietetics is a dynamic profession offering many different opportunities for practice. Today's dietetic professionals pursue careers in health care, education, and research. They work in business, industry, public relations, and mass media.

Organ

Students develop technical command, musical depth and professional confidence through comprehensive organ study, performance opportunities and supporting coursework in musicianship and sacred music.

Organizational Leadership

This major is designed to prepare students for successful careers as leaders in their organizations. The curriculum addresses the fundamental business, communication, human behavior, leadership, human resource, and technology concepts and skills needed to succeed in leadership roles in a variety of settings.

Pharmacy Studies

The bachelor of science in pharmacy studies is designed to provide doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students (who have no prior degree) the opportunity to pursue other degree programs during or after completing the PharmD degree. Pharmacy students completing the second year of the professional PharmD program will be awarded this degree (regardless of graduating from the PharmD program). A student must complete the University Convocation credit requirements to be eligible to receive this degree.

Philosophy

Students earning a bachelor of arts in philosophy develop the skill of moving beyond assumptions by thinking rigorously about how human

Philosophy and Religion

Students earning a bachelor of arts in philosophy and religion examine critical questions about human existence by considering philosophical and theological perspectives on the nature of the divine.

Physics (B.A.)

Samford’s Physics Department combines classical physics education with modern, experiential learning in a collaborative, close-knit academic environment.

Physics (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science in Physics provides a rigorous core of classical and modern physics concepts, supported by strong lab experience and cutting-edge technology.

Piano

The Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance is designed for students who want to pursue advanced study in piano through focused, performance‑driven training. This degree prepares students for careers in performance, teaching and graduate study through rigorous practice, mentorship and real‑world experience.

Political Science

Samford’s Political Science program blends the best of the liberal arts tradition with real-world experience. From research and data analysis to internships and trips to Washington, students receive a well-rounded, mission-driven education grounded in civic responsibility.

Psychology (B.A.)

Courses should be selected in consultation with an advisor and in accordance with students' interests and career goals. The psychology major does not require a minor in any other discipline; however, students are encouraged to select a minor or a concentration of courses that will complement their interests, and educational and career goals. Students typically take PSYC 305 and PSYC 306 as a sequence during their junior year.

Psychology (B.S.)

The bachelor of science in psychology degree is a liberal arts degree that emphasizes the experimental areas of psychology. This includes traditional experimental areas such as neuroscience, cognitive science, and learning as well as applied experimental areas such as social psychology, health psychology, and abnormal psychology. This degree is intended to appeal to students who have an interest in the natural and computational sciences as well as cognitive and behavioral science.

Public Health

In an age of rapid changes in knowledge and technologies, public health professionals require a broad education that emphasizes problem- solving skills, critical thinking, interdisciplinary teamwork, and strong communication skills. Our cutting-edge curriculum and stellar faculty prepare you for a career in service to humanity.

Secondary Education

Students pursuing a degree in secondary education must also select a content area of study and take all of the courses required to meet the Alabama State Department of Education requirements in order to be recommended for teacher licensure. Approved content areas are English, French, German, Mathematics, Social Studies, or Spanish. Students also have the option of pursuing a second degree or second major in their chosen content area.

Sociology

A major in sociology can prepare students for graduate work in sociology and related fields such as social work, law, public health, international relations, labor relations, gerontology, or family counseling. In addition, students can work in a variety of areas including law enforcement, social services, or local, state, and federal government agencies. The degree offers a foundation in understanding the relationships among people in groups, as well as relations between groups.

Spanish

The bachelor of arts in Spanish language and literature prepares students for a variety of career and graduate school options. The program of study may be combined with essential education courses to earn teacher certification.

Sport Administration

The sport administration major is designed to prepare students for sport industry leadership positions in intercollegiate athletic administration, professional sports, facility and event operations, marketing and public relations, law, interscholastic athletic administration, sport business, and related fields. Every course is grounded in leadership skills such as punctuality, problem-solving, professional speaking and intentionality.

Sports Medicine

In addition to meeting the prerequisite requirements for medical school the sports medicine major provides a prevention-oriented curriculum with course options in nutrition, exercise physiology, and exercise prescription. Students will be assigned a school academic advisor in addition to the health professions advisor who will guide their progress toward medical school or other medically based professional school e.g., dental school).

Studio Art

The bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree is the professional degree for the artist; it is also the foundation for graduate studies in studio art. The BFA degree program is interdisciplinary in nature and permits a student to take a greater number of courses in studio art and art history.

Theatre

The bachelor of arts (BA) degree is ideal for students who want a broad education in addition to production and performance experience. Students can take classes in a variety of theatre areas such as acting, directing, stage management, design, and playwriting.

Voice

Samford’s Division of Music offers degrees in specialized performance areas. Vocal Performance provides opportunities to participate in multiple ensembles, perform with the Samford Opera, workshops, annual musicals and educational touring programs.

Worship Leadership

The bachelor of arts in worship leadership is a liberal arts degree designed for students committed to worship ministry in the church and parachurch organizations. Coursework emphasizes the practices of Christian worship and ministry with complementary studies in a worship- related concentration of the student's choosing. Upon graduation, students will be equipped to pursue positions in worship leadership or graduate studies in seminary, worship, or related fields.