Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that going back to school can be a big decision, and we're here to answer any questions you may have about our program.
Here are some common questions (and answers!) about the program:
A bachelor’s degree in professional studies is a four-year degree that prepares students for both career advancement and graduate studies. It is more career-focused and practical in nature than a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.). It meets the same standards and rigor as any other degree the College of Charleston offers. You may elect to concentrate your B.P.S. degree in one of four in-demand areas of study: applied communication, healthcare and medical services management, organizational management and development, or project management.
The College of Charleston's B.P.S. curriculum challenges students to be innovative 21st-century thinkers while applying classroom concepts to work-related tasks. Our flexible, online degree program allows students to learn concepts in the evening and apply them as soon as the next day on the job.
Most students taking a full-time course load can complete all major requirements in two years. Transfer credits, program prerequisites and elective credits will be used to meet the 122 credits needed to graduate. Students are encouraged to meet with an advisor prior to transfer to maximize transferrable credits.
Yes! Classes are offered in both asynchronous and synchronous online formats. You can better balance your work and life responsibilities with your academics in our program.
The cost to attend the Bachelor of Professional Studies program depends on whether you are in-state or out-of-state and how many credit hours you elect to take. Visit our Tuition and Fees page for more information. Financial aid is also available to pay for the program.
We are here to help you take the guessing game out of transferring credits. We are happy to review your transcript before you apply to the program. Contact us to schedule a pre-transfer advising appointment to determine which classes will successfully transfer.
Generally, previous credits do not expire. In some cases, coursework older than 10 years may not transfer. If you are curious, please contact us for a pre-transfer transcript evaluation.
Yes. A bachelor’s degree in professional studies allows you to continue your studies and work toward any advanced degree.
Yes. Our project management certificate program is stackable, leading you directly into our B.P.S. program should you seek a four-year degree and meet the program course prerequisites. The 21st Century Sustainable Business Solutions certificate is a great add-on for our other degree programs.
No. However, you can accelerate your pace to degree completion by transferring in those courses. Those who graduate with an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degree from a public, two-year South Carolina technical college waive all prerequisite requirements.
No, there is no requirement to have an associate degree before applying to the B.P.S. program. However, if you have earned an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degree from a public, two-year South Carolina technical college, you are guaranteed to receive a minimum of 60 transfer credit hours and junior class status. You may also waive all prerequisite requirements. This waiver allows you to complete your B.P.S. degree at the College of Charleston as quickly and inexpensively as possible. Reach out to our advisors to learn more.
What additional questions do you have? Contact us!
