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A Program Focused Upon the Profession

Accounting is no longer just a numbers game: it is rapidly becoming a service profession based on knowledge. The next generation of accountants will be strategic thinkers and planners who must not only understand financial data, but must also be able to recognize and understand the impact such data have on all aspects of an organization. As the economy grows, the number of business establishments can be expected to increase, too, and there will be a need for accountants and auditors to set up their financial, technological and internal control systems; provide tax preparation and planning assistance; and offer management consulting and other business advisory services.

Because passing the CPA exam is the hallmark of the profession, the Accounting program at Xavier concentrates on preparing its graduates to do just that. Curriculum content, faculty emphasis and assistance, interactive group learning efforts and an accounting-oriented student organization combine to produce students well prepared to take and pass the exam.

The Accounting program at 91�Թ��� offers the opportunity to receive an education that will prepare you for a career in top management decision making, active involvement in corporate finance and the potential for a six figure income with executive status in a respected profession. There are opportunities as business consultants and exciting interaction with local community leaders. With an accounting degree there are many opportunities for entrepreneurial business ownership. Past graduates have been hired by companies such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, KPMG, the Internal Revenue Service, Coca Cola, Ryan and Company, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as well as by several area and regional businesses and non-profit organizations.

Art Education offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in two programs: a full Art major degree in preparation for graduate school and an Education degree leading to certification to teach Art Education Grades K-12. Art Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program combines art with another chosen discipline to broaden career opportunities. This program requires 54 semester hours in art courses, of which twelve (12) hours are electives. In addition to the 54 semester hours in art, a minor of eighteen (18) semester hours in an area other than art is required.

The Biochemistry Program prepares students for graduate study and professional careers in an exciting area of science of the chemistry that controls biological processes and molecular medicine. This program is a great option for pre-medical students as it provides all the medical school prerequisite course work and prepares the students for success in medical studies. Students declaring a major in biochemistry should work with their advisors to choose a minor that will best prepare them for the career or graduate/professional school of their choice.

A joint degree by the Biology Department and the Physics and Computer Science Department, this program provides students with a solid foundation in chemistry, biology, computer science, mathematics, and statistics. Students are trained in using computers to analyze, organize, and visualize biological data in ways that increase the understanding of this data and lead to new discoveries. Graduates are well-qualified for many rewarding careers, including those in bioinformatics software development, biomedical research, biotechnology, comparative genomics, genomics, molecular imaging, pharmaceutical research and development, proteomics, and vaccine development.

The Biology Department is committed to preparing its graduates for entering the exciting field of biological research and toward matriculation into graduate and professional schools. Most of the courses a student takes in a health professional school are in Biology including physiology, anatomy, histology, microbiology, genetics, and immunology just to list a few. Strong preparation in these areas will help one become not only a successful applicant, but also a successful graduate in the health professions. Biology graduates have successfully completed programs at professional schools such as Cornell, Harvard, Johns Hopkins, LSU, Meharry, Stanford, Tulane, UCLA, Yale and others. The science of biotechnology is expanding very rapidly, thus creating numerous jobs for biologists in industry. To enter into research and applied biology, a solid preparation for graduate school is essential. 

Click here for more information on our Premedical Office.

For more information regarding the Core Curriculum, including a list of courses that satisfy Core Curriculum requirements, click here:  .

Biology Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Students should consult their advisors each semester. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for more information.

For more information regarding the Core Curriculum, including a list of courses that satisfy Core Curriculum requirements, click here:  .

The Department of Biology supports the Dual Degree Engineering Program in Biomedical Engineering which is detailed below. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

This program is designed for students interested in combining their biology study with other disciplines such as pre-law, marketing, history, technical writing, etc. The degree will not prepare students for graduate programs in biology or for medical or dental schools. Students who later may wish to pursue graduate programs in biology or attend professional school will be required to take additional courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

The Biology Department is committed to preparing its graduates for entering the exciting field of biological research and toward matriculation into graduate and professional schools. Most of the courses a student takes in a health professional school are in Biology including physiology, anatomy, histology, microbiology, genetics, and immunology just to list a few. Strong preparation in these areas will help one become not only a successful applicant, but also a successful graduate in the health professions. Biology graduates have successfully completed programs at professional schools such as Cornell, Harvard, Johns Hopkins, LSU, Meharry, Stanford, Tulane, UCLA, Yale and others. The science of biotechnology is expanding very rapidly, thus creating numerous jobs for biologists in industry. To enter into research and applied biology, a solid preparation for graduate school is essential.

Finance is concerned with the methods used to generate monetary resources to purchase sufficient physical capital and inventory that can sustain company sales. Often referred to as "The Heart of Business," students of Finance learn the mechanics of cash flow management and capital budgeting. Xavier's program in Finance is aimed at preparing students to take the Certified Financial Analyst Examination and/or to qualify for admissions to the master of Finance program at Tulane University.

The Finance program has been recently revamped to prepare students for the Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) exams. The CFA designation is the most respected and valued credential in the global finance community

For more information regarding the Core Curriculum, including a list of courses that satisfy Core Curriculum requirements, click here:  .

Because managers are the people who decide how to use many of a society's most valuable resources – its skilled employees, raw materials, computers and information systems, and financial assets – they directly impact the well-being of people, organizations, and nations. Our management majors are well-prepared for Careers in a wide variety of business organizations, both domestic and international.

For more information regarding the Core Curriculum, including a list of courses that satisfy Core Curriculum requirements, click here:  .

Approved by the American Chemical Society, with its required minor in Mathematics, students are prepared for graduate studies in Chemistry and for careers as professional chemists.

Designed to prepare students for success in pharmacy school. Students wishing to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree through Xavier's College of Pharmacy must complete 61 credit hours of the Chemistry (Pre-Pharmacy) curriculum, as specified, prior to being admitted to the PharmD Program. Students interested in pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at another institution are also advised to follow the Chemistry (Pre-Pharmacy) curriculum while at Xavier. For those students following this course of study who may opt not to pursue an advanced degree in Pharmacy, the four-year curriculum provides preparation for other careers or advanced study requiring significant background in Chemistry. Students choosing to complete the full four-year program should work closely with their academic advisor in choosing elective courses.

Prepares students for success in medical, dental, and related health professional schools. The courses in the major and its required Biology minor have been selected to give the graduates of this program the greatest chance of success in their chosen professional field.

Chemistry Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Students should consult their advisors each semester. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for more information.

The Chemistry Program is more flexible; it does not require that the student to minor in a specific area. Rather, students choose their own minor which must include at least 18 semester hours. The student also must follow the requirements of the University and the Department in which he/she wishes to minor. This program also allows for more free electives than other chemistry programs. This program is designed to allow a student the option to design a program to fit career and life goals that combine chemistry with other subjects. It is especially relevant for students with nontraditional goals and those transferring from another major who have already accumulated significant hours in another field. It is important for students following the Chemistry Program to plan their course of study in close consultation with their academic advisors.

The Computer Science major studies the art and the science of computing. The art of computer science includes web design, graphics, multimedia, software engineering, and many other creative courses. The science of computing includes the theory of computing, database, artificial intelligence, robotics,digital logic design, algorithms, operating systems, architecture, and of course programming. The Computer Science Department is committed to preparing students for either a career in a computing field or for graduate study.

Xavier's Dual-Degree Engineering Program that has a Computer Engineering concentration. This 3+2 program requires students to complete the core Computer Science and Engineering courses then transfer to an engineering school to complete their engineering degree requirements. Upon completion of the degree requirements, students will earn a B.S. in Computer Science from Xavier and a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering from their engineering school.

The Computer Science major studies the art and the science of computing. The art of computer science includes web design, graphics, multimedia, software engineering, and many other creative courses. The science of computing includes the theory of computing, database, artificial intelligence, robotics,digital logic design, algorithms, operating systems, architecture, and of course programming. The Computer Science Department is committed to preparing students for either a career in a computing field or for graduate study.

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science is designed to meet the growing demand for data scientists and data analysts with deep analytical and technical skills who can analyze massive amounts of data and extract information from complex data sources. The Program’s interdisciplinary curriculum provides students with content knowledge and skills across the broad field of data science, including information technology principles, concepts, practices, system and database software, learning from data, and analytical thinking.

The requirements of the Education programs consist of courses in general education, knowledge of the learner and the learning environment, methodology in teaching, and student teaching. Monitored and sequenced field experiences provide opportunities for the candidate to apply the theoretical framework in various classroom settings.

The program in Elementary Education (grades 1-5) prepares teacher candidates to understand and meet the needs of the elementary students. Courses such as methods of teaching elementary school, classroom management, and child psychology are designed to prepare teacher candidates to be competent professionals who possess the professional and technical knowledge and skills to assess, plan, develop, implement and evaluate an elementary curriculum that promotes student learning.

English majors learn to reason effectively and to communicate well, both orally and in writing. Under the English curriculum students are well prepared to pursue careers in education, law, government service, technical writing, journalism, public relations, business, and the corporate world. The graduating English major may enter a masters or Ph.D. program in English, Comparative Literature, African American Studies, Women's Studies, Cultural Studies, Diaspora Studies, creative writing, technical writing, linguistics, or in any of the humanities. Many of Xavier's English graduates have entered law or graduate school programs.

Majors are required to pass a senior comprehensive examination and must attend all departmental (English Club) meetings.

English/English Education offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in two programs: a full English major degree in preparation for graduate school in English and the humanities and an Education degree leading to certification to teach English Education grades 6-12. English/English Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

French Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Students should consult their advisors each semester. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

The Department of Languages offers majors and minors in French and Spanish, with additional study available in American Sign Language, Mandarin, Biblical Greek, Biblical Hebrew, and Latin. Ordinarily, the major requires 30 semester credit hours in the target language beyond 1010-1020; students who wish to begin a language major at the elementary level receive assistance from their advisors and other members of the department faculty in order to facilitate course planning leading to satisfactory completion of all necessary coursework in a timely fashion. Language majors and minors and other interested students have access to summer, semester, and year-abroad international study through the Center for Intercultural and International Programs (CIIP). All students are urged to take advantage of this opportunity. Most upper-level students and double majors in the department earn part of their required credits through immersion study in a country where their language of choice is spoken. These students return to Xavier with advanced-level language skills, as determined by the Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) examination developed by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

Eighteen hours of major courses and nine hours of minor courses must be completed at Xavier unless the student obtains permission from the department head and the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Students interested in majoring or minoring in a language and studying abroad must have a language advisor and must consult with that advisor prior to entering the program of study or registering for international coursework. All students should take at least one literature course either before or during foreign study. Majors are required to complete at least four literature courses, to attend all departmental meetings, and to pass a comprehensive examination in the target language. This comprehensive examination contains literary topics on European, Latin American, and African texts, as appropriate to language and course selection.

Concentration in Languages - Students desiring a double concentration in languages must complete 12 hours in each of two languages (24 hours total) or in a language and another discipline. Recommended courses for a 12-hour concentration in languages include the following: 1090, 2010-2020, and one 3000 or 4000 level course, or 12 hours of all upper-level courses, depending on the student’s level of performance.

The program in history equips students with a broad historical background and intellectual skills needed in a wide variety of professions, including those in government service, law, business, museum and archival careers, college teaching and professional research.

An undergraduate focus in history - either minor or major - prepares students to take on a wide variety of pursuits. In addition to graduate school in history, the major also provides a solid foundation for law school, museum and historic preservation studies, and education programs. History majors make excellent educators, politicians, foreign service officers, editors and journalists, just to name a few of the fields history majors can enter.

The mass communication major offers students a wide liberal arts background and a core of communications courses that prepare students for either graduate school or positions in the media industry. Mass Communication majors follow a curriculum designed to allow students to concentrate in one of two areas of mass communication: multimedia, public relations, or strategic communication.

In addition to satisfying the goals of the core curriculum, the mass communication program is designed to:

• prepare students for position in the media and media-based industries;
• prepare students to ultimately move into management and leadership positions in the media;
• prepare students to pursue advanced degrees in communications fields, and to qualify for entry into certain professional schools;
• develop students who have the flexibility and adaptability to compete in a changing job market; and,
• develop students who demonstrate responsible, ethical attitudes toward the role of media and toward media professions.

Students primarily interested in broadcasting may prepare video projects in the department's television studio for cablecast over XTV and become members of X Radio. Those who wish to pursue careers in print media can earn valuable experience on the Xavier Herald, the only student newspaper from a Historically Black College that is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame. Students also have the opportunity to complete internships at media outlets such as a radio or television station, newspaper, magazine, or an advertising or public relations agency. Students are expected to compile a portfolio for use in their job search following graduation.

The mass communication major offers students a wide liberal arts background and a core of communications courses that prepare students for either graduate school or positions in the media industry. Mass Communication majors follow a curriculum designed to allow students to concentrate in one of two areas of mass communication: multimedia, public relations, or strategic communication.

In addition to satisfying the goals of the core curriculum, the mass communication program is designed to:

• prepare students for position in the media and media-based industries;
• prepare students to ultimately move into management and leadership positions in the media;
• prepare students to pursue advanced degrees in communications fields, and to qualify for entry into certain professional schools;
• develop students who have the flexibility and adaptability to compete in a changing job market; and,
• develop students who demonstrate responsible, ethical attitudes toward the role of media and toward media professions.

Students primarily interested in broadcasting may prepare video projects in the department's television studio for cablecast over XTV and become members of X Radio. Those who wish to pursue careers in print media can earn valuable experience on the Xavier Herald, the only student newspaper from a Historically Black College that is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame. Students also have the opportunity to complete internships at media outlets such as a radio or television station, newspaper, magazine, or an advertising or public relations agency. Students are expected to compile a portfolio for use in their job search following graduation.

Mathematics Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Students should consult their advisors each semester. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum provides students with content knowledge across STEM fields, training a generation of students to become future leaders in MLS. Upon graduation, students will qualify to sit for the MLS certification exam offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT) examination.  Upon receipt of a passing score, students will qualify for licensure by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. All MLS majors will be required to complete a total of 124 hours of coursework that includes the Xavier Core Curriculum, required courses in MLS, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and clinical practicum courses at Ochsner. 

Prior to advancing into the third year of the MLS program, students must complete an application and interview, and have meet MLS requirements before advancing into the professional phase. Transfer students are expected to have completed the major requirements prior to registering for MLS courses in their junior year and are expected to complete Core requirements prior to graduation. The Department of Biology will host informational sessions on and off campus to highlight the program.

A major in Music Education is offered in a program designed to prepare teachers of school music and leads to a Bachelor of Music degree. Observation and teaching experiences are required and are made possible with the assistance of cooperating teachers in local public and private schools. Official admission to the Teacher Education Program is granted according to the procedures outlined by the Division of Education and Counseling ().

In the course of study leading to the Bachelor of Arts Degree, there is a broad coverage of the discipline of music that is designed to foster cross-disciplinary thinking and creativity. Emphasis is placed on the literature and theory of music, the ability to perform well in a major applied medium, and a strong intellectual grasp of the art of music and its relationship to other disciplines.

Music Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change.  Students should consult their advisors each semester.  Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

All Neuroscience majors will be required to complete a total of 27 hours of courses across the disciplines of the field (Psychology, Biology, Chemistry). There are 12 hours of required courses for all majors, including

• PSYC 1010 - Introductory Psychology
• PSYC 2020 - Research Methods
• PSYC 3050 - Physiological Psychology
• NSCI 3300 - Introduction to Neuroscience

The Philosophy Program is designed for students who plan to take an active leadership role in shaping a more just and humane society. Completing the philosophy major will (1) provide the student with knowledge of the philosophical themes and thinkers that have been influential in shaping contemporary culture, (2) increase the student's ability to think, speak, read, and write critically and effectively, and (3) increase the student's ability to approach value questions in a rational manner. These abilities will prepare the student for success in any career that requires rational thought and expression, such as teaching, law, business, management, journalism, and public service. 

In order to accommodate a number of different career options, the curriculum has been designed to encourage students to pursue a second area of interest by means of a double major, a double concentration, a double minor, or a combination of related courses.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

The Department of Physics and Computer Science supports the Dual Degree Engineering Programs in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering that are detailed in the following pages. For more information regarding Dual Degree Engineering Programs, students should consult with the Director of Dual Degree Engineering Programs and see the information about Dual Degree Engineering Programs in this catalog.

All programs require taking the - sequence, however the - sequence may be substituted if a scheduling conflict does not permit taking the recommended - sequence. Note that a student’s chemistry courses must all be in one of the sequences.

Students have the option of pursuing a B.S. degree in physics rather than a B.A. degree. A student who wishes to receive the B.S. degree must satisfy the requirements for the B.A. degree and in addition take three PHYS courses from the following list: , , , , and . None of the three courses can be a course that is already required for the B.A. degree or that has already been counted as a physics elective.

Physics is the study of the physical world. If you wonder about the nature of the world, if you like solving problems, then you should seriously consider majoring in physics. A physics degree will help you maximize your career options. From oceanography to meteorology, from biophysics to management, the physics student will learn skills transferable to various professions.

Coursework is directed to give students a strong foundation in the fundamentals of physics with a three-pronged series of general physics. Establishment of the fundamentals in this series leads to success in upper level courses, which concentrate on specific areas of physics. Physics graduates continue on to successfully pursue Masters and Doctorates in the various fields of Physics.

Physics is the study of the physical world. If you wonder about the nature of the world, if you like solving problems, then you should seriously consider majoring in physics. A physics degree will help you maximize your career options. From oceanography to meteorology, from biophysics to management, the physics student will learn skills transferable to various professions.

Coursework is directed to give students a strong foundation in the fundamentals of physics with a three-pronged series of general physics. Establishment of the fundamentals in this series leads to success in upper level courses, which concentrate on specific areas of physics. Physics graduates continue on to successfully pursue Masters and Doctorates in the various fields of Physics.

The Political Science Department offers an accelerated “pre-law” program for political science majors and other interested students. Students complete a three-year liberal arts education program at Xavier (105 hours). In their senior year, students enroll at an American Bar Association accredited law school. After successfully completing 15 hours at law school, the student receives a B.A. degree from Xavier.

To participate in the program, a student must maintain a cumulative average of 3.0 and register with the Pre-Law Advisor throughout his/her three years at Xavier. The proposed course of study and transfer hours must be approved by the department. A student’s minor should be any subject which 1) develops analytical skills, 2) develops writing skills, and/or 3) relates to the student’s proposed law specialty. For example, another social science discipline, History, English, Philosophy, Business Administration, Mathematics, a physical science, foreign language, Computer Science, or Public Administration may be selected as a minor. The student should delay taking electives in the major to be eligible for the accelerated program.

The program does not assure a student’s entry into law school. Admission to an accredited law school is the responsibility of the student. Several law schools in the United States allow admission to the exceptional student without an undergraduate degree. The student interested in Pre-Law should see the Pre-Law Advisor at his or her first Xavier registration.

The Political Science program is designed for students who aspire to active leadership roles in promoting a more just and humane global society. Completing the political science major will: 1) increase student competence in the understanding of the principles of government and political thought; 2) develop student awareness and understanding of global political and economic issues; 3) enhance student skills in statistical research and quantitative analysis; 4) maximize student abilities to read critically, speak effectively, write clearly and think analytically; and, 5) facilitate student abilities to apply moral and ethical analysis to political issues.

The Political Science program is designed to prepare students for a variety of career opportunities in the local, national, and global political arena. The educational outcomes and career orientations students can expect to pursue are: 

1. graduate study in political science, public administration, political economy, international and public affairs, urban planning, or other social science sub-fields
2. professional study in law, mass communication, social work, management, or other public service
3. employment with government or non-profit organizations
4. foreign service
5. partisan political activity;
6. classroom teaching and educational administration; and 
7. grassroots organization within the African American community.

Students will take a minimum of 33 credit hours of psychology, from five different categories of offerings within the Psychology Department:

Click here for more information on our Premedical Office.

Students will take a minimum of 36 credit hours of psychology as offered within the Psychology Department, from five different categories of offerings:

The mission of the undergraduate major in Public Health Sciences is to utilize a strong foundation in liberal arts and public health to educate students on how to critically think and implement multidisciplinary public health strategies to promote health and well-being on a population basis. Completing the public health sciences major will: (1) expose students to the historical and societal associations between determinants of health and health outcomes utilizing analytical thinking and critical assessment; (2) provide students with a variety of professional development and academically challenging experiences that prepare students to enter the public health workforce or graduate/professional schools; (3) assist students with demonstrating creativity, inquisitiveness, and evidenced-based rigor in the application of public health problem-solving skills; and 4) assist students with developing skills and abilities to design, implement, and evaluate health intervention to address a variety of health issues.

The public health sciences undergraduate degree program is built upon Xavier’s strong emphasis in the liberal arts. The liberal arts courses help to establish an interdisciplinary perspective based on a variety of disciplinary contributions in the arts and sciences - all of which are critical to students’ preparation in public health. These courses include history, ethics and philosophy, English literature, psychology, sociology, political science/public policy, economics, biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics/statistics, languages, communication, and fine arts. These recommended courses align nicely with the required core courses every Xavier University student must take.

Students who major in Social Studies Education must earn 27 hours in history. The following are required:  or ,  or , , , , and at least nine hours of 3000- or 4000- level courses. No grade lower than a “C” in any of the departmental offerings may be applied for credit in the major. Social Studies Education majors are required to achieve an acceptable score (determined by the Louisiana Department of Education) on all parts of the Praxis, including Praxis II: Specialty Area Test, in order to graduate.

Social Studies Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Students should consult their advisors each semester. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

Students interested in criminology and the criminal justice system may elect a Concentration in Crime and Social Justice. This interdisciplinary concentration allows students to apply sociological tools to the study of crime, and to infuse this development of knowledge with an appreciation of how society's definition and reaction to crime support or hinder social justice. Unlike programs with a technical focus, a flexible, liberal arts curriculum allows students to develop analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills while learning more about the sub-field of criminology and the criminal justice system.

In particular, students will: 

• consider how definitions of crime, awareness of crime, and reactions to crime are rooted in larger economic, political, and social contexts
• develop a critical perspective on the criminal justice system's role as a system of social control
• discover how social identities affect the system
• research policies for prevention, intervention, and reform that promote a more socially just system
• analyze how crime intersects with other social institutions. 

This concentration is a useful foundation for students interested in pursuing a wide range of occupations graduate degrees such as: 

• law
• criminal justice (law enforcement, corrections, probation or parole systems)
• social work
• government and non-profit agencies
• counseling and rehabilitation services
• family services
• education
• juvenile justice
• community development and empowerment
• program evaluation and planning

Students majoring in sociology may elect a Concentration in Health, Medicine and Society. The goals of this unique concentration are to assist students in learning that health and disease do not depend solely on biological mechanisms; to promote the well-being of the social body by teaching the role of behavioral theory, research, and clinical practice in the promotion and maintenance of health and well-being; to provide students with knowledge of cutting edge debates in the field; to assist students in understanding the sociological, ethical, and psychological mechanisms affecting human health and illness behavior; and to prepare students for careers in the health professions and/or entrance to graduate school.

Whether entering the job market or graduate school, the sociology major offers students skills that are increasingly necessary in a global, rapidly changing world. Xavier’s sociology major offers exposure to diverse perspectives on social issues, broad training in social scientific research, an understanding of how various institutions and groups work (e.g., business, education, government, medicine, families, law), strong critical thinking and writing skills, and an understanding of the rapidly changing, diverse and global world. This foundation in a wide range of knowledge and skill areas offers graduates enormous flexibility in the job market and/or entry into a wide array of graduate or professional programs.

Students majoring in sociology must complete 37 credit hours in sociology, in addition to  () (may be applied to Quantitative Reasoning Core requirement) . Of these, the following sociology courses, totaling 16 credit hours, are required:  (may be applied to Human Behavior Explorations),  (may be applied to Advanced Rhetoric Core requirement ), , , , and . In addition to these required courses, students complete 21 hours of Sociology Electives, distributed as follows:  one additional 1000 level course, two additional 2000 level elective courses, two additional 3000 level elective courses, and two additional 4000 level elective courses.

Spanish Education majors should note that certification requirements are established by the Louisiana Department of Education and are subject to change. Students should consult their advisors each semester. Education majors should consult the Division of Education and Counseling section in this catalog for requirements to be formally admitted into Xavier’s Teacher Education Program.

The Department of Languages offers majors and minors in French and Spanish, with additional study available in American Sign Language, Mandarin, Biblical Greek, Biblical Hebrew, and Latin . Ordinarily, the major requires 30 semester credit hours in the target language beyond 1010-1020; students who wish to begin a language major at the elementary level receive assistance from their advisors and other members of the department faculty in order to facilitate course planning leading to satisfactory completion of all necessary coursework in a timely fashion. Language majors and minors and other interested students have access to summer, semester, and year-abroad international study through the Center for Intercultural and International Programs (CIIP). All students are urged to take advantage of this opportunity. Most upper-level students and double majors in the department earn part of their required credits through immersion study in a country where their language of choice is spoken. These students return to Xavier with advanced-level language skills, as determined by the Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) examination developed by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

Eighteen hours of major courses and nine hours of minor courses must be completed at Xavier unless the student obtains permission from the department head and the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Students interested in majoring or minoring in a language and studying abroad musthave a language advisor and must consult with that advisor prior to entering the program of study or registering for international coursework. All students should take at least one literature course either before or during foreign study. Majors are required to complete at least four literature courses, to attend all departmental meetings, and to pass a comprehensive examination in the target language. This comprehensive examination contains literary topics on European, Latin American, and African texts, as appropriate to language and course selection.

Concentration in Languages - Students desiring a double concentration in languages must complete 12 hours in each of two languages (24 hours total) or in a language and another discipline. Recommended courses for a 12-hour concentration in languages include the following: 1090, 2010-2020, and one 3000 or 4000 level course, or 12 hours of all upper level courses, depending on the student’s level of performance.

The Theology Program promotes a more just and humane society within the context of faith and theological reflection. It enables students to understand the discourse of the human experience of God by means of an historical critical approach.

A Major in Theology challenges students to the universal call to actively engage in the transformation of society. Thus, students are prepared to assume positions of leadership in academia and/or professional life. In keeping with the call to transform society, the theology program prepares students for a variety of academic, professional and service opportunities.