RFI

This program is the world’s first online accredited undergraduate astronomy degree. With custom-built classes and innovative coursework, this program makes learning astronomy online convenient, compelling and tailored to your learning needs.

The curriculum includes:

• Groundwork in mathematics and physical sciences.
• Topical courses focused on diverse fields within astronomy and planetary science.
• Exposure to the engineering and computational tools and techniques used to carry out research.

As a student in this program, you’ll gain skills in coding, communication and problem solving, including how to break down and tackle complex problems applying modern statistical data analysis techniques using computers.

Who’s this program a good fit for?

This program is ideal for students interested in obtaining a quantitative understanding of the science of the solar system and beyond. In this math-intensive program, an interest in math will help set you up for success and be prepared to utilize it throughout all upper-division courses. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with broad training in the scientific foundations and fundamentals of space exploration, including ongoing advancements in the field.

What you can do with a bachelor’s in astronomy

Upon completing this program, you can pursue careers in fields that value scientific knowledge. These types of careers involve the use of modern statistical data analysis techniques. You may also find jobs within K-12 STEM teaching, writing and journalism, science policy or statistical data analysis and computer programming.

Additionally, because this astronomy degree focuses on critical thinking and innovative problem-solving, it may prepare you for law school or other graduate school opportunities related to this skill set. However, if you plan to apply to a graduate program in astronomy or astrophysics, or pursue a path as a university professor or professional astronomer, you’ll need additional advanced coursework in mathematics and physics, as well as in-person research experience. To meet these graduate school requirements, you should consider pursuing the on-campus Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics program.

This bachelor’s program provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to move into a range of employment opportunities in community nutrition or food service industries or continue your education in a dietetics-focused graduate program.

Throughout this program, you’ll explore the fundamentals of nutrition, including macro and micronutrients and developing nutrition care plans. Additionally, you’ll delve into food sustainability, cultural aspects of food and health, food safety, and food and health policy, all of which prepare you to apply nutrition expertise to a variety of careers. You’ll also engage in experiential learning with community partners specializing in food and nutrition to gain real-world experience, develop professional relationships and establish a foundation for your future goals.

Focus your studies to fit your career path with one of three focus areas

This applied nutrition and health degree provides you with the opportunity to hone your passions, interests and career goals with your choice of one of three specialized focus areas. Each focus area includes 18 credits, or six classes, that emphasize each topic respectively. Available focus areas include:

• Community nutrition: Graduates are equipped with strategies for promoting health and wellness within communities and evidence-based social media tactics to address critical public health issues.
• Food service operations: Graduates develop the knowledge and skills needed to stay ahead of changing consumer demands, technological advancements and innovative dining concepts in the dynamic field of food service operations. Featured topics include management, strategy, supply chain management and entrepreneurship in food and nutrition.
• Pre-dietetics: For those interested in becoming registered dietitians, this focus offers the additional science and leadership courses required for dietetics-focused graduate programs.
  • In-person lab experiences are required for this track. Learn what to expect and how to prepare for the on-campus sessions.

Who’s a good fit for an applied nutrition and health degree?

If you’re interested in pursuing a career path in the nutrition and health industry, with a particular focus on community work, food service operations or working as a registered dietitian, this degree may be a great fit for you. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for a variety of career paths, including:

• Community nutrition and public health.
• Management of food service and sustainable food systems.
• Marketing and development of food products.
• Nutrition consulting.
• Nutrition and health communication and promotion.

Please note, the BS in applied nutrition and health doesn’t provide a direct pathway to become a registered dietitian (RD) or dietitian nutritionist (RDN) and doesn’t result in a DPD verification. If you’re interested in becoming a registered dietitian, please ensure that you meet the advanced degree requirements, including specific courses and internship hours, needed to pursue a graduate program in dietetics. Students can review the ACEND website to review advanced degree programs to consider.

Graphic designers shape how information is shared through visual communication. You’ll study design principles, layout strategies and storytelling techniques to develop engaging messaging. This degree emphasizes responsible design practices and builds your ability to communicate visually beyond just mastering software tools. Upon graduation, you’ll possess a wide range of transferable skills and competencies needed to succeed as a graphic designer, such as:

• Book design
• Color
• Critical thinking
• Environmental design
• Motion graphics
• Seeing, drawing and translating
• Strategic problem solving
• Storytelling
• 3D design
• Typography
• Visual literacy

Who's a good candidate for this graphic design program?

This program is designed for students who are curious, adaptable and excited to learn through hands-on projects. You’ll be a great fit if you’re looking to sharpen your critical thinking while using design to communicate meaningful ideas.

You’ll also thrive if you appreciate deep, thoughtful learning and are ready to participate in digital coursework. Please note this program does not teach specific, in-depth design software. You will, however, have opportunities to develop your technical skills independently with support from resources.

This program offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamentals of chemistry and biomolecules, making it an ideal choice for pre-health students or those seeking a liberal arts degree grounded in laboratory-based physical science. You’ll dive into biology, organic chemistry and physics, alongside courses in liberal arts and a foreign language. As you progress, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how chemical processes enable living organisms to function, with a focus on how cells communicate through molecular and atomic-level processes.

The skills you’ll develop

As a biochemistry major, you’ll develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for STEM careers. You’ll explore how biochemists contribute to drug discovery, pathogen control and environmental remediation while gaining a deep understanding of molecular and atomic processes that drive biological systems. Alongside scientific knowledge, you’ll strengthen your cultural and quantitative skills through liberal arts courses.

You’ll also complete in-person courses for organic chemistry and biochemistry in an accelerated format, typically taking less than two weeks. These hands-on experiences enhance the legitimacy of your online degree and equip you for a career in STEM. While you may be able to take these courses at an approved institution near you, equivalencies aren’t guaranteed, so work with your advisor to confirm transfer eligibility.

Learn more about the on-campus sessions and how to prepare.

How does this BA compare to a BS in biochemistry?

When comparing a BA and BS in biochemistry, this BA offers a more well-rounded education with a foreign language requirement and electives that enhance cultural competencies and quantitative skills. However, if your goal is to pursue a career in scientific research or a PhD in the sciences, our Bachelor of Science in biochemistry is a better option for you.

The BS program includes more advanced calculus math courses which are essential for research-focused careers. This BA, while less math-intensive, still provides a strong foundation in biochemistry, making it an excellent choice for those interested in broader career paths or further study in interdisciplinary fields.

Whether you choose the BA or BS, you’ll have support from academic, career and pre-health advisors throughout your program. You’ll receive personalized guidance on health-related graduate pathways and career options. Advisors will also help connect you with local research, clinical internships and community service opportunities. For more information, please visit our pre-health website.