College of Professional and Continuing Studies
Susan D. Seal, Dean
susan.seal@msstate.edu
Sean M. Owen, Associate Dean
sean.owen@msstate.edu
Office: 301 Memorial Hall
Telephone: (662) 325-3473
Mailing Address: Box 5247, Mississippi State, MS 39762
Website: https://cpcs.msstate.edu
General Information
The college of Professional and Continuing Studies (PCS) was established in 2023 to serve as the academic home for programs that are applied or practice-based in nature. Degree programs, non-credit programs, and non-credit/for-credit certificates that focus on the application of learning to the workforce are also a part of the College’s offerings through its Center for Distance Education and Center for Continuing Education that are a part of the College.
MISSION
Our mission is to ignite learning and professional growth by providing accessible, innovative, and transformational educational experiences. As a catalyst for change within our university, we are dedicated to being an advocate for the adult learner, an educational partner with industry, and a reliable collaborator with faculty and staff. We are committed to creating an educational culture in which we empower individuals to achieve their career aspirations through lifelong learning and to providing an agile support structure to allow faculty, staff, and industry partners to thrive.
VISION
Our vision is to be a beacon of excellence and innovation in the field of professional and continuing education. We aspire to lead our university into the future with robust growth in enrollment and graduation rates. We see the College of Professional and Continuing Studies as the key driver in shaping our region's workforce, preparing professionals equipped with relevant skills and competencies to meet industry needs, and thus, fostering regional economic growth.
FACULTY AND LEADERSHIP
The College of Professional and Continuing Studies utilizes a combination of its own departmental faculty, faculty from other Mississippi State University colleges, and qualified practice professionals who serve as adjunct instructors to teach, advise, and mentor students. Faculty and instructors are invited to participate in the college's programs based on their professionalism and commitment to the mission, values, and goals of the organization. Leadership for the College of Professional and Continuing Studies is entrusted to the Dean, Associate Dean, college faculty, and senior staff.
GENERAL UNIVERSITY POLICIES
Students enrolled through the College of Professional and Continuing Studies are subject to Mississippi State University’s general policies, scholastic regulations, and standards as outlined in the University’s Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs. Questions concerning MSU policies or procedures should be directed to the college.
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)
Major Advisors: Kali Dunlap, Kristi Dearing, and Jaiki Shumpert
The applied baccalaureate degree is specifically intended to serve the needs of adult learners, military, and community college transfers who have completed a technical associate degree program, such as an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) from a SACSCOC accredited community college in the state of Mississippi or comparable regionally-accredited community college. The Bachelor of Applied Science is a flexible pathway design that allows learners to customize their education to advance in their career paths. Building upon the AAS or other technical associate degree program, the BAS degree prepares adult learners, military, and community college transfers to assume leadership roles and make an elevated contribution in the workplace.
The minimum number of hours required in the BAS degree is 120 hours, which may include 60 hours of credit with a 2.0 GPA earned as a part of the AAS degree. No more than 25 percent of the 120 credits may be earned through prior learning assessment and/or competency-based learning. Of the 120 credit hours, 30 shall be completed in residency at Mississippi State University and 30 shall be upper division (3/4000-level) courses. The delivery format of courses for the program may be offered face-to-face or online. In addition, up to 45 hours of approved technical or military credit may be used to fulfill the required elective hours. See advisor for information.
Degree Requirements
| English Composition | ||
| EN 1103 | English Composition I | 3 |
| or EN 1104 | Expanded English Composition I | |
| EN 1113 | English Composition II | 3 |
| or EN 1173 | Accelerated Composition II | |
| Humanities | ||
| See General Education Core | 6 | |
| Mathematics | ||
| See General Education Core | 3 | |
| Fine Arts | ||
| See General Education Core | 3 | |
| Natural Sciences | ||
| See General Education Core. Two labs required. | 6 | |
| Social Sciences | ||
| See General Education Core | 6 | |
| Oral Communication Requirement | ||
| CO 1003 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| or CO 1013 | Introduction to Communication | |
| Or other approved speech course | ||
| Computer Literacy | ||
| TECH 1273 | Computer Applications | 2-3 |
| or BIS 1012 | Introduction to Business Information Systems | |
| Or other approved technology course | ||
| Extra University Core | ||
| See General Education Core or Advisor Approved Upper Level Courses | 6 | |
| Junior/Senior Writing Requirements | ||
| Consult Advisor | 3 | |
| Major Core Emphasis Areas | ||
| Consult Advisor | ||
| Upper Level Courses (one, two, or three emphasis areas) | 30 | |
| Electives | ||
| May include approved technical or military credits | 45 | |
| Total Hours | 120 | |
Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Office Technology
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Office Technology is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to succeed in a variety of office and business environments. This program integrates fundamental business principles with advanced technological skills to prepare students for diverse roles in office administration, technology management, and business oeprations.
| English (General Education) | 6 | |
| English Composition I | ||
or EN 1104 | Expanded English Composition I | |
| English Composition II | ||
or EN 1173 | Accelerated Composition II | |
| Creative Discovery (General Education) | 3 | |
Any course satisfying Creative Discovery | ||
| Natural Sciences (2 labs required from General Education) | 6 | |
Any 2 courses satisfying Natural Sciences | ||
| Quantitative Reasoning (General Education) | 3 | |
| Math in Your World (or higher) | ||
| Humanities (General Education) | 6 | |
Any 2 courses that satisfy the Humanities requirement | ||
| Social/Behavioral Sciences (General Education) | 6 | |
Any 2 courses satisfying Social/Behavioral Sciences | ||
| Major Core Courses | 33 | |
| Introduction to the Bachelor of Applied Science | ||
| Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace | ||
| Professional Leadership Strategies | ||
| Professional Success Strategies in Applied Fields | ||
| Management Information Systems | ||
| Principles of Management | ||
| Introduction to Human Resource Management | ||
| Administrative Management and Procedures | ||
| Advanced Office Systems | ||
| Information Technology Project Management | ||
| Advanced Information Processing | ||
| Introduction to Data Networks | ||
| University Electives | 12 | |
| Introduction to Communication | ||
or CO 1003 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | |
| Computer Applications (or higher) | ||
2 General Core Electives (anything that satisfies the general education requirements) | ||
| Technical Courses in Discipline | 45 | |
| Total Hours | 120 | |
Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Management
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Management is designed to prepare students for administrative and leadership careers in fire science, law and public safety, emergency management, and public management. Designed with the working adult in mind, this program offers a flexible and comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of public administration and management. The program focuses on applied learning, drawing from various disciplines, offering a holistic understanding of public management, from policy analysis to organizational leadership. Students must possess an accredited Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Emergency Management Related Disciplines, Fire Science, Law and Public Safety, Public Management Technology, or other related public management and public safety fields.
| English (General Education) | 6 | |
| English Composition I | ||
or EN 1104 | Expanded English Composition I | |
| English Composition II | ||
or EN 1173 | Accelerated Composition II | |
| Creative Discovery (General Education) | 3 | |
Any course satisfying Creative Discovery | ||
| Natural Sciences (2 labs required from General Education) | 6 | |
Any 2 courses satisfying Natural Sciences | ||
| Quantitative Reasoning (General Education) | 3 | |
| Math in Your World (or higher) | ||
| Humanities (General Education) | 6 | |
Any 2 courses that satisfy the Humanities requirement | ||
| Social/Behavioral Sciences (General Education) | 6 | |
| American Government (or higher) | ||
Any course satisfying Social/Behavioral Sciences requirement | ||
| Major Core Courses | 36 | |
| Introduction to the Bachelor of Applied Science | ||
| Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace | ||
| Professional Leadership Strategies | ||
| Personnel Management for the Public Sector | ||
| Professional Success Strategies in Applied Fields | ||
| Principles of Public Relations | ||
| Communication and Leadership | ||
| Principles of Management | ||
| Socially Responsible Leadership | ||
| Intergovernmental Relations | ||
| Principles of Public Administration | ||
| Administrative Management and Procedures | ||
| Diversity in Work and Educational Environments | ||
| University Electives | 12 | |
| Introduction to Communication | ||
or CO 1003 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | |
| Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace (counts in the major core but hours only count once while meeing Jr/Sr writing requirement)) | ||
| Computer Applications (or higher) | ||
Any General Core Elective (anything that satisfies the general education requirements) | ||
| Technical Courses in Discipline | 45 | |
| Total Hours | 120 | |
University Studies - Complete to Compete Program (C2C)
Major C2C Coaches: Kali Dunlap, Jaiki Shumpert, and Caine Page
The Bachelor of Science in University Studies is housed in the College of Professional and Continuing Studies (CPCS). A student who wishes to pursue the major in University Studies must enroll in the Complete to Compete (C2C) program and be eligible for admission to the degree program. To be eligible, the student must meet the criteria of an adult learner, i.e. must be at least 21 years old, have earned at least 90 semester credit hours, have not earned a baccalaureate degree, and must not have attended a postsecondary institution within the last twenty-four months.
The University Studies degree is designed to provide eligible adult learners who have not completed a baccalaureate degree a pathway to return to Mississippi State University to complete a degree. The curriculum is individualized to meet the needs and career goals of the returning adult learner. An eligible student will meet with a C2C Coach and work with faculty to develop the best degree plan possible.
Degree Requirements
| English Composition | ||
| EN 1103 | English Composition I | 3 |
| EN 1113 | English Composition II | 3 |
| Humanities | ||
| See General Education Core | 6 | |
| Mathematics | ||
| See General Education Core | 3 | |
| Fine Arts | ||
| See General Education Core | 3 | |
| Natural Sciences | ||
| See General Education Core. Two labs required. | 6 | |
| Social Sciences | ||
| See General Education Core | 6 | |
| Oral Communication Requirement | ||
| CO 1003 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| or CO 1013 | Introduction to Communication | |
| Or other approved speech course | ||
| Computer Literacy | ||
| TECH 1273 | Computer Applications | 2-3 |
| or BIS 1012 | Introduction to Business Information Systems | |
| Or other approved technology course | ||
| Extra University Core | ||
| See General Education Core or Advisor Approved Upper Level Courses | 24 | |
| Junior/Senior Writing Requirements | ||
| Consult with C2C Coach and/or Faculty Advisor | 3 | |
| Major Core Emphasis Areas | ||
| Consult C2C Coach and/or Faculty Advisor | ||
| Upper Level Courses (one, two, or three emphasis areas) | 30 | |
| General Electives | 25-28 | |
| Total Hours | 120 | |
PCS 2111 Introduction to the Bachelor of Applied Science: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. Introduction to the Bachelor of Applied Science emphasizing the significance of merging applied and technical coursework from students' prior Associate of Applied Science degrees with upper-level coursework from the university. It provides a foundation for students to integrate theory-based education with practical and professional skills
PCS 2990 Special Topic in Professional & Continuing Studies: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PCS 2991 Soft Skills for Workforce Scholars Initiative Interns: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. This is a soft skills course designed to enhance the practical experience students gain during their internships coordinated through the Workforce Scholars Initiative. The course covers common soft skills including communication, teamwork, resourcefulness, adaptability, time management, and professional presentations
PCS 3003 Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Explores the fundamental technical documentation, interpersonal skills, and collaborative strategies necessary for effective workplace interactions at the supervisory, middle management, and executive levels. The course centers on refining professional interaction competencies for adult learners in the workforce
PCS 3103 Professional Leadership Strategies: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: Junior standing). Three hours lecture. Tailored to empower adult learners currently active in the workforce, and students with proficiency in technical fields by equipping them with practical expertise to elevate their leadership capabilities
PCS 3203 Applied Leadership in Strategic Initiatives: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course introduces students to the essentials of leading and executing strategic initiatives. Students will engage in hands-on activities that simulate real-world challenges, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings
PCS 3303 Applied Data-Driven Decision Strategies: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Provides an interdisciplinary approach to data-driven decision-making. Emphasizing practical applications, the course equips students with the skills to summarize findings and effectively communicate results to a diverse set of stakeholders
PCS 4000 Directed Individual Study in Professional & Continuing Studies: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credit to be arranged
PCS 4003 Personnel Management for the Public Sector: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Examines relationships and issues in personnel management and human resource development within the context of emergency management organizations
PCS 4103 Designing Immersive VR Experiences I: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course will provide students the opportunity to explore the basics of VR locomotion, manipulating, puppeteering, and organizing 3D models, immersive location design, and the production of immersive experiences
PCS 4112 Professional Success Strategies in Applied Fields: 2 hours.
Two hours lecture. Designed for students in their final semester of the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS). The course focuses on equipping students with essential skills and knowledge for successful professional transition and advancement in applied fields
PCS 4113 Designing Immersive VR Experiences II: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PCS 4103/6103). Three hours lecture. Building on the basic skills developed during Designing Immersive Experiences I, this course will provide students the opportunity to build advanced VR animations using the content editor of Engage
PCS 4203 Digital Transformation and Adaptive Leadership: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Provides students with the knowledge and skills to navigate and lead in the rapidly evolving digital business environment. Students will engage in research and analysis of how converging technologies are reshaping business functions such as virtual team management, digital marketing, and business intelligence
PCS 4990 Special Topic in Professional & Continuing Studies: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PCS 6003 Personnel Management for the Public Sector: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Examines relationships and issues in personnel management and human resource development within the context of emergency management organizations
PCS 6103 Designing Immersive VR Experiences I: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course will provide students the opportunity to explore the basics of VR locomotion, manipulating, puppeteering, and organizing 3D models, immersive location design, and the production of immersive experiences
PCS 6113 Designing Immersive VR Experiences II: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PCS 4103/6103). Three hours lecture. Building on the basic skills developed during Designing Immersive Experiences I, this course will provide students the opportunity to build advanced VR animations using the content editor of Engage
PCS 6203 Digital Transformation and Adaptive Leadership: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Provides students with the knowledge and skills to navigate and lead in the rapidly evolving digital business environment. Students will engage in research and analysis of how converging technologies are reshaping business functions such as virtual team management, digital marketing, and business intelligence
PCS 6313 Organizational Culture: 3 hours.
This course explores the concept of organizational culture and how effective leadership can influence that culture
PCS 6323 Effective Organizational Discourse: 3 hours.
This course explores the concept of effective discourse within an organization
PCS 6333 The Dichotomies of Leadership: 3 hours.
This course explores the concept of balance within leadership by evaluating common leadership dichotomies that leaders must constantly consider to be effective
PCS 6343 Foundations of Organizational Leadership: 3 hours.
This course illustrates the power of personal accountability, building relationships, effective communication, proper prioritization of tasks, and empowering people to create a positive impact on organizations and their missions
PCS 7000 Directed Individual Study in Prof & Continuing Studies: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
PCS 8103 Strategic Initiative Leadership in a Diverse Workplace: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Equips students with the skills to formulate and implement strategic initiatives in various organizational settings. Specific emphasis is placed on integrating applied techniques to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion
PCS 8123 Operational Leadership and External Reporting: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Focuses on the practical aspects of operational leadership. This course guides students how to make data-driven decisions and effectively communicate these to internal and external stakeholders the problem-based team scenarios
PCS 8153 Leading in a Non-Profit Environment: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course is designed for those interested in leadership roles within non-profit organizations. Students will explore various leadership theories, operational strategies, and external reporting mechanisms specific to non-profit organizations
PCS 8703 Conducting Team-Based Evaluations and Metrics: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course helps students understand the methodologies and tools used for conducting team-based evaluations. Students will learn to develop performance metrics and use these to formulate actionable insights for organizational improvement
PCS 8903 Integrative Leadership and Organizational Strategy: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This capstone course synthesizes key concepts in integrative leadership and organizational strategy, culminating in a comprehensive project that demonstrates mastery of the program's learning outcomes