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Online Graduate Degree Programs

The University of South Carolina makes a range of programs of graduate study available through online learning. Complete your advanced coursework with convenient online access that doesn't compromise your learning experience.

Programs of Study

Note that some programs may include face-to-face requirements (e.g., orientation, clinical, internship or practicum).

Master's Program

Master of Education in Education Administration

The Educational Leadership and Policies program prepares equity-focused and transformative leaders for a variety of formal and informal leadership positions at the school level.  These roles include, but are not limited to: teacher leadership, instructional leadership, and principal leadership.  You will learn to lead PK-12 schools by engaging in critical educational praxis. This 100% Online program leads to principal certification for those who already hold a Professional Teaching Certificate.  

Master's Program

Master of Education in Educational Psychology and Research

This program provides training in both educational psychology and research methods; it can also include opportunities for research. You can enter the master’s program with an undergraduate degree in any number of fields.  The online option is primarily designed for current educators and others seeking to increase their knowledge and skills related to educational psychology and research while pursing a master’s degree. In this option you can expect online courses to help you acquire fundamental research skills (e.g., design and analysis) and content (e.g., motivation, learning and instruction) that can be applied to a variety of educational settings (e.g., schools, science museums, zoos).

Master's Program

Master of Education in Language and Literacy

This 100% online master’s program in Language and Literacy will prepare you to become a specialized literacy professional. This Master’s degree program is the only program in the state in which a student can earn coursework for all three state-approved literacy certifications (literacy teacher, literacy coach, literacy specialist). As part of the 30-hour program, you will complete all required courses for the Literacy Teacher and Literacy Coach add-on certifications, and with one additional course, all courses needed for the Literacy Specialist. No other program in the state provides coursework for all three certifications within a single Master’s program.

Master's Program

Master of Education in Learning Design and Technologies

This 100% online degree program is designed to help you develop capabilities essential to the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation of effective, efficient, and appealing technology-based learning, instruction, and training (e.g., computer-based training, software/multimedia development, assistive technology modifications, online education, and distance learning). Our program is appropriate for K-12 teachers, corporate trainers, and government and healthcare workers who will be developing instructional interventions with technology-enhanced learning.  Neither teaching licensure nor a previous degree in education is required for admissions

Master's Program

Master of Education in Teaching

The Master of Education in Teaching is designed to meet the needs of working educators. This 100% online accelerated program is taught by the same faculty who teach on campus and provides opportunities for endorsements, career advancement and educational enrichment.

Master's Program

Master of Education in Special Education – Multi-categorial concentration only

The goals of the program emphasize preparing special education teachers who respect the diverse characteristics and needs of individuals with disabilities and their families by upholding professional ethical principles, practice standards, and professional policies, as designated by the Council for Exceptional Children. The curriculum meets the accreditation standards set by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the state of South Carolina’s requirements for add-on certification for current teachers.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Adapted Physical Education

 The M.S. in adapted physical education is ideal for anyone who wants to successfully include children with disabilities in general physical education classes, is interested in learning about disability sporting and recreation opportunities, or wants to become an itinerant adapted physical educator. With this degree, you will be able to support all children, with and without disabilities, and maximize learning in psychomotor, cognitive and affective domains in a general physical education setting.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Coaching Education

The athletic coaching concentration is ideal for current or former athletes and anyone who is currently coaching or aspiring to coach. You will learn and apply scientifically driven coaching practices with athletes in youth sport, interscholastic sport, collegiate sport and/or the performing arts. With this concentration, you will be able to develop physical, psychological, and social abilities of athletes and performing artists. Coaches are responsible for planning, organizing, and delivering an appropriate range of sports activities and programs focused on both individual and team development. Typical responsibilities include teaching relevant skills and tactics, preparing athletes for competition, scheduling games and practices, goal setting and fostering sportsmanship and character development in athletes. Through coursework you will earn the Coaching Principles certification by the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) and have a solid foundation for sport-specific certifications offered through a variety of sport governing bodies.

Specialist Program

Educational Specialist in Education Administration

The Educational Leadership and Policies program will prepare you for a variety of formal and informal leadership positions at the district level.  These roles include, but are not limited to district-level leadership, district coordinators, assistant superintendent and superintendent.  You will learn to lead PK-12 school districts by engaging in critical educational praxis. The Ed.S. in Education Administration program leads to superintendency certification in South Carolina. To be admitted to the program, you must already hold an elementary or secondary administration certificate.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Education - Curriculum Studies

The Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation with a concentration in Curriculum Studies can be completed 100% online and is designed to provide educators with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of social justice in diverse communities. Additionally, you will learn how to utilize an equity framework to both identify and address problems of practice in various academic settings. The program is informed by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Consortium. The online Ed.D. program will prepare you to become a curriculum specialist in PK—12, higher education, or the private sector. As a graduate of our program, you will also be equipped to serve as a classroom teacher at the PK – 12th grade level, college professor, school- or, district-level administrator.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Education - Education Systems Improvement

The Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation with a concentration in Education Systems Improvement is designed to develop capacity for school, district, and higher education institution improvement with capabilities that include advanced understandings of inquiry and improvement science; organizational culture and change: transforming educational institutions and communities; economics and district finance; educational policy and reform; board relations; and systemic challenges and problems in urban and rural contexts. This program is ideal for leaders in K-12, community college and higher education.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Education - Learning Design and Technologies

The Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation with a concentration in Learning Design and Technologies (formerly the Educational Technology concentration) is designed to help you develop capabilities essential to the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation, and research of technology-based learning, instruction, and training (e.g., computer-based training, software/multimedia development, assistive technology modifications, online education, and distance learning).

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Education - STEM Education

The Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation with a concentration in STEM Education is designed to prepare STEM Education leaders across varying educational settings (school, district, and state). Designed to support research-practitioners, this program focuses on investigating problems of practice in STEM Education. As part of the program, candidates will explore theory, history, and concepts within STEM education settings in order to engage in research of practice. During the dissertation process, candidates will engage in action research related to STEM Education. 

 

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Master's Program

Master of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering (APOGEE)

Graduate study in aerospace engineering affords the opportunity to enhance critical thinking and mathematical prowess, skills that are transferable to career advancement in research, design and application work environments. Plus, those with graduate degrees in aerospace engineering generally have a higher income than those with just an undergraduate engineering degree.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (APOGEE)

Graduate study in aerospace engineering affords the opportunity to enhance critical thinking and mathematical prowess, skills that are transferable to career advancement in research, design and application work environments. Plus, those with graduate degrees in aerospace engineering generally have a higher income than those with just an undergraduate engineering degree.

 

CIVIL ENGINEERING

Master's Program

Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering (APOGEE)

The M.E. in Civil Engineering will prepare you to tackle difficult projects and to develop designs, solve problems and make impactful decisions. This 30 semester-hour program is designed to give students focused training in the practice of civil and environmental engineering. 

Master's Program

Master of Science in Civil Engineering (APOGEE)

Graduates of the Civil Engineering M.S. program will develop the technical, leadership, communication, problem-solving and organization skills required for professional advancement and life-long learning. Our 30 semester-hour M.S. program includes a thesis and serves civil and environmental engineers who wish to obtain advanced studies to enhance their qualifications within the industry.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Civil Engineering (APOGEE)

Our Ph.D. program prepares graduates to meet growing demands for advanced research within the areas of civil and environmental engineering. Civil Engineering Ph.D. students develop a deep understanding in an advancing field of civil and environmental engineering and the ability to apply that understanding to solve a variety of technical and societal problems. The ability to execute a research plan, to generate and analyze original results, and to communicate those results through oral presentations and written publications is a distinguishing feature of the Ph.D. program.

 

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Master's Program

Master of Science in Computer Science (APOGEE)

The M.S. in Computer Science provides in-depth knowledge on the core topics of computer software, compilers and algorithms, along with additional topics. Students in this may elect either the thesis or the non-thesis option. A thesis involving research in a particular area of study is intended for students that seek both breadth and depth in advanced computing topics. The M.S. program comprises 30 hours of graduate credit.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Computer Engineering (APOGEE)

The M.S. in Computer Science degree provides in-depth knowledge on the core topics of computer software, compilers and algorithms, along with additional topics. Students in this may elect either the thesis or the non-thesis option. A thesis involving research in a particular area of study is intended for students that seek both breadth and depth in advanced computing topics. The M.S. program comprises 30 hours of graduate credit.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Engineering (APOGEE)

In the Computer Engineering Ph.D. program, you will formulate and perform research that is challenging and of wide interest in your area of specialization. You will develop the ability to communicate research results effectively with others.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science (APOGEE)

In the Computer Science Ph.D. program, you will formulate and perform research that is challenging and of wide interest in your area of specialization. You will develop the ability to advance the field of computing and to communicate research results effectively with others.

 

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Master's Program

Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (APOGEE)

The M.E. in Mechanical Engineering degree will prepare you total tackle difficult projects and to develop designs, solve problems and make impactful decisions. Become a more-competent engineer with just 30 hours of graduate course work beyond your B.S. This non-thesis graduate degree is especially great for working engineers who cannot easily access a research laboratory.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (APOGEE)

Graduates of the Mechanical Engineering M.S. program have the skills needed for life-long learning and professional development. Demonstrate your technical acumen and ratchet up your career objectives. This research-oriented graduate degree requires a thesis and 24 hours of graduate coursework.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering (APOGEE)

If your aim is a career in academia or in an industrial or government research and development laboratory, you'll need to earn the highest degree a mechanical engineer can get. Complete a research-based dissertation, grounded in coursework, in just four years beyond your B.S. degree.

 

NUCLEAR ENGINEERING

Master's Program

Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering (APOGEE)

The M.E. in nuclear engineering will prepare you to tackle difficult projects and to develop designs, solve problems, and make impactful decisions. Become a more-competent engineer with just 30 hours of graduate course work beyond your B.S. This non-thesis graduate degree is especially great for working engineers who cannot easily access a research laboratory.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering (APOGEE)

Graduates of the Nuclear Engineering M.S. program have the skills needed for life-long learning and professional development. Demonstrate your technical acumen and ratchet up your career objectives. This research-oriented graduate degree requires a thesis and 24 hours of graduate coursework.

Doctoral Program

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nuclear Engineering (APOGEE)

Nuclear Engineering Ph.D. students develop the ability to execute a research plan, to generate and analyze original results, and to communicate those results through oral presentations and written publications. If your aim is a career in academia or in an industrial or government research and development laboratory, you'll need to earn the highest degree a nuclear engineer can get. Complete a research-based dissertation, grounded in coursework, in just four years beyond your B.S. degree.

 

INTEGRATED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 

Master's Program

Master of Health Information Technology

Positions in health information technology require expertise in the complexities of both health care administration and information technology, and currently these professionals are in short supply and high demand. In the Master of Health Information Technology (MHIT) program, you'll gain cutting-edge skills that will qualify you for positions in this critical, fast-growing field. Our graduate program will teach the skills you need to help health care organizations streamline processes and improve the security of their data. Growth in these positions is expected to outpace the broad economy over the next several years.

 

Master's Program

Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management

The University of South Carolina’s Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management degree is designed for industry professionals who want to advance their careers.  Learn from world-renowned scholars and industry experts at one of the top graduate programs in the country. The University of South Carolina's School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management is ranked in the top 10 in the U.S. for hospitality and tourism management. 

Certificate Program

Interscholastic Athletic Administration Graduate Certificate

High school athletics have evolved into a complex enterprise within the political, legal and social landscapes. The teachers and coaches who operate in this new environment must possess a diverse skillset in order to thrive. To help confront this challenge, the University of South Carolina's College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management now offers a graduate certificate in interscholastic athletic administration through the Department of Sport and Entertainment Management.

 

Master's Program

Master of Science in Data and Communication

Data-driven decisions, data-based strategies and digital storytelling are essential skills for communication professionals. We have combined the best courses from the School of Journalism and Mass Communications and the School of Information Science to create a robust master’s program. This flexible  online master of science degree was designed for both seasoned professionals and recent graduates entering the workforce. 

Master's Program

Master of Science in Information Security and Cyber Leadership

Cyber threats and data breaches are bringing new challenges to the public and private sectors. The demand for information security specialists and cyber leaders is at an all-time high. This flexible, online master’s degree will provide you with both the technical, social and people skills needed to succeed in this rapidly expanding field.

Master's Program

Master of Mass Communication in Journalism and Mass Communications - Strategic Communication Management track only

Our new online Master of Mass Communication program allows you to complete your degree remotely in as little as two years. This degree focuses on strategic and integrated communication to make you more competitive for management positions in communication fields.

Certificate Program

Certificate of Graduate Study in Information Security and Cyber Leadership

Whether you are a cyber professional seeking to advance your skills, an active-duty service member/veteran who wants to help counter adversaries’ cyber-attacks, or a recent graduate who wants a certificate in a high-demand field, this 12-hour online certificate is uniquely positioned to prepare you to become an information security expert and future leader in the cyber industry.

Certificate Program

Certificate in Data and Communication

Are you a communications professional seeking flexible, online continuing education to update your skills? Or are you a recent graduate looking to augment your degree with tools that are in high demand? Our 12-hour certificate combines courses from the School of Journalism and Mass Communication with courses from the School of Information science to make you more marketable and up-to-date in an industry in constant flux.

 

Master's Program

Masters of Studies in Law in Health Systems Law

This 30-hour online post-bachelor’s degree is for health care professionals and students who desire knowledge of health care systems and applicable laws and regulations in America, as well as identifying legal risks inherent to the field. Taught by accomplished health care professionals and attorneys practicing in the field, this 100% online and on-demand graduate degree has no GRE or LSAT requirement.

Certificate Program

Health Care Compliance Certificate

This post-bachelor’s certificate is for health care professionals and students who want to learn how to identify legal risks inherent to the field as well as health care systems and applicable laws and regulations in America. Taught by accomplished health care professionals and attorneys, this 18-hour certificate is 100% online, on-demand, and has no GRE or LSAT requirement.

Master's Program

Master of Library and Information Science

If you’re looking for a career in a library or information center, consider our Master of Library and Information Science degree. It prepares students for jobs in colleges, schools, communities, industries, businesses and other institutions. Our master’s program is fully online, with the exception of school library in-person practicums and other internships.

Specialist Program

Specialist in Library and Information Science

Want to refresh and update your knowledge and skills? Consider our specialist degree. It’s a post master's degree program for librarians, information managers and other related professionals who have worked in the field for at least two years to enhance their knowledge of computer-based information systems, web design, networking and a host of other specialized information systems.

Certificate Program

Certificate of Specialized Study in Information Science

Interested in a specific career in the field of library and information science? Our Certificate of Graduate Study is a 12-hour program offering specialization in areas such as library administration, information science, technical services, information and records management, or information systems design.

 

Master's Program

Master of Music Education (MME)

Students who successfully complete our master’s program in music education further their knowledge and understanding through study of history, philosophy, learning theory and pedagogical practice. Teacher certification is required for admission to this degree. 

 

 

Online Programs Spotlight

 

Master's

Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

The primary care Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares you to provide primary health care across the patient lifespan.

Master's

Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program prepares you to provide direct patient management in acute and complex care settings. AGACNP's are in high demand with rising patient acuity and a growing elderly population.

Master's

Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program prepares you to provide holistic, mental health care integrating neuroscientific principles of behavior, experience and psychopharmacology with psychotherapy, consultation, and trauma-related care across the patient lifespan.

Master's

Master of Science in Nursing - Nursing Education

The Nursing Education program prepares you to function as an academic or clinical nurse educator across various program levels and settings.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Nursing - Nursing Informatics

The Nursing Informatics program prepares you to identify and manage health care data to support clinicians and patients in decision making and improve health outcomes.

Master's Program

Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Leadership

The Healthcare Leadership (HL) program prepares you to manage the delivery of nursing and healthcare services across diverse healthcare settings.

Doctoral Program

Doctorate of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The DNP program at South Carolina prepares you to become an advanced practice nurse or for a leadership role. Through online classes and select on-campus immersions, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to implement evidence-based practices and system-wide changes to improve patient outcomes. Clinical concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).

Doctoral Program

Doctorate of Nursing Practice - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

The DNP program at South Carolina prepares you to become an advanced practice nurse or for a leadership role. Through online classes and select on-campus immersions, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to implement evidence-based practices and system-wide changes to improve patient outcomes. Clinical concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP).

Doctoral Program

Doctorate of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

The DNP program at South Carolina prepares you to become an advanced practice nurse or for a leadership role. Through online classes and select on-campus immersions, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to implement evidence-based practices and system-wide changes to improve patient outcomes. Clinical concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Doctoral Program

Doctorate of Nursing Practice – Executive Healthcare Leadership

The Executive Healthcare Leadership concentration is open to both BSN and master’s-prepared applicants. Program graduates are prepared to influence health care environments through professionalism, leadership, strong communication skills and business knowledge.

Certificate Program

Certificate of Graduate Study in Advanced Practice Nursing

If you have already earned an MSN degree, earning a Post Masters Graduate Certificate (PMGC) from the College of Nursing allows you to gain certification in another clinical specialty, healthcare leadership, or informatics.  

Certificate Program

Certificate of Graduate Study in Healthcare Leadership

If you have already earned an MSN degree, earning a Post Masters Graduate Certificate (PMGC) from the College of Nursing allows you to gain certification in another clinical specialty, healthcare leadership, or informatics.

Certificate Program

Certificate of Graduate Study in Nursing Education

If you have already earned an MSN degree, earning a Post Masters Graduate Certificate (PMGC) from the College of Nursing allows you to gain certification in another clinical specialty, healthcare leadership, or informatics.

Certificate Program

Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics

If you have already earned an MSN degree, earning a Post Masters Graduate Certificate (PMGC) from the College of Nursing allows you to gain certification in another clinical specialty, healthcare leadership, or informatics.

 

Master's Program

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

If you would like to become a speech-language pathologist but have job or family commitments that prevent you from attending a full-time master’s program, then we encourage you to consider our Master of Science via distance education (MS-DE) program. The MS degree prepares you for a career in speech-language pathology through comprehensive coursework and significant clinical experiences. The curriculum has been structured to be part-time, with academic instruction offered through distance learning, in-person components, and technology-supported live interactions. 

Master's Program

Master of Public Health in Epidemiology Fall 2023

There has never been a better time to pursue a master’s degree in epidemiology.  We are looking for tomorrow's public health leaders who want a multi-faceted MPH program in a diverse, collegial, and supportive environment. Our online 100% asynchronous MPH degree includes an integrated core curriculum covering the five core disciplines, advanced training in epidemiologic and biostatistical methods, and an opportunity to gain experience and training in a public health practice setting. 

Master's Program

Master of Public Health in Health Promotion, Education and Behavior

The Master of Public Health in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior Professional Online Program is designed for practitioners in health department, community, school and worksite settings who are deeply concerned about human welfare and require the flexibility of an online program. The curriculum provides highly transferable, interdisciplinary skills that will help make you a more impactful agent of change in your career and in people’s lives. This program will train you to become a leader and advocate for change in organizations and in the environment to facilitate healthful practices; develop programs aimed at promoting good health at the personal, organizational, and public-policy levels; evaluate health programs and policies to ensure they are meeting objectives and societal needs; and develop and disseminate knowledge through systematic research and evaluation.

Master's Program

Master of Public Health in Health Services Policy and Management

Are you interested in a career where you can have a more direct and immediate impact on the health of others in your community, state, nation and beyond but are unable to attend classes on campus?  If this is your aspiration, then our Master of Public Health degree in public health management via distance education may be the degree program for you.  Our online program will provide you with the essential knowledge, skills and experiences that will prepare you to be a leader within an agency or organization dedicated to improving the public’s health.  The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree provides students with the competencies needed to manage public health programs and to direct population-based health improvement.  

 



 

Special Fee Notification

Students may be required to be proctored during online test completion.  If students are unable to attend test proctoring sessions in person at the Distributed Learning office, additional fees may apply for online test proctoring.

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