Anthropology majors study different cultures, emphasizing both the diversity of cultures and how
cultures act as unifying factors in human lives. Ancient and modern cultures are studied, as well as
major areas of modern anthropology, such as physical anthropology and ethnology.
Art & Art History, B.A.
Art majors take courses in painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, and art history as
well as in areas that prepare students for specific careers in the arts such as gallery management,
computer graphics, advertising design and photography. The rich exposure to art available in New
York City makes the study of visual arts at Wagner an exceptionally valuable experience.
Arts Administration, B.S.
Arts administration is an interdisciplinary major offering a concentration in any one of four different
areas: visual arts, music, theatre or combined (two or more arts areas). Coursework includes a
business minor and professional courses in arts administration/leadership/management in combination
with core liberal arts requirements. The capstone experience of the program is a full-semester
senior internship in a professional arts management setting. This major prepares students to
become administrators of galleries, opera companies, dance companies, theaters, concert theaters,
museums, orchestras, and other art organizations.
Biology majors are prepared in a core of studies in molecular biology, genetics, physiology, organismal
biology, evolution, and ecology and environmental biology. Upper-level courses, internships,
and research opportunities complement and enhance the core study. In addition to graduate, medical,
and other professional schools, majors may have governmental and private-sector careers in
such fields as health services, laboratory sciences, environmental sciences, and teaching.
Biopsychology is an interdisciplinary area of study where the major area of interest is the relationship
between physiological and psychological systems. Study focuses on the neural mechanisms of
behavior and cognition, evolutionary development of the nervous system, and mechanisms of
nervous system and psychiatric disorders. The biopsychology major prepares students for graduate
study in biopsychology, neuropsychology, neurobiology, or related fields and for careers requiring a
solid foundation in science.
Business administration majors may choose one of five concentrations: accounting, finance, marketing,
management, or international business. A common core curriculum for all concentrations
and a capstone internship insure that all students will have a broad-based and practical understanding
of business. Graduates of the major work in areas such as banking, brokerage firms, corporate
financial management, international business, securities market operations, marketing
research, advertising, sales, management, and management information systems in both small and
large companies. New York City affords students a rich source of businesses in which to have
internships.
Both undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration are accredited by the
Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs.
Chemistry majors are offered a comprehensive background in organic, inorganic, physical, analytical,
and biochemistry as well as advanced work in mathematics and physics. Chemistry students
are encouraged to engage in independent research projects that often become presentations or
published papers. The chemistry program is accredited by the American Chemical Society. Majors
may continue their education in medical, other professional schools, or graduate school. They may
also pursue industrial careers in a wide variety of fields, such as pharmaceuticals, forensic science,
materials chemistry, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry.
The computer science program emphasizes the practical application of knowledge with a focus on
software engineering. Students may also focus studies on hardware design, mathematics, or business
computing. The major prepares students for careers as programmers, software engineers, systems
analysts, and consultants.
Dance (minor)
The minor in dance introduces students to the history and art of dance and allows them to study
ballet and musical theatre dance in greater depth. All students are eligible to enroll in dance offerings,
whether their interest is avocational: exercise and personal improvement; or vocational: professional
dance training, performing in College productions or professional performance.
Understanding the American and global economies has become a necessity in many areas of life.
This major offers a comprehensive array of courses to provide that knowledge, and to expose students
to differing analytical approaches and research methods used in economics, and their applications
to real world problems. The senior economics internship and research course unites critical
thinking with the application of economic analysis and data management in a career-oriented
placement. The economics major provides a rigorous and practical liberal arts background for a
wide range of academic, professional, public policy, and business careers.
The Department of Education offers three (3) undergraduate programs, two of which lead to New
York State initial (provisional) certification.
The first education program leads to New York State initial (provisional) dual Certification in
Childhood Education and Childhood Education for Students with Disabilities (Grades 1–6).
Requirements for the Childhood Education Program include prescribed courses from the liberal
arts, the education major and another major in one of the 11 following areas: English,
aociology/anthropology, history, psychology, art, theatre/speech, music, Spanish, French, mathematics,
and natural science. The program culminates with supervised student teaching experiences.
The on-campus Early Childhood Learning Center and emphasis on practical experience contribute
to a high placement rate of graduates of the programs.
The second education program leads to New York State initial Certification in Theatre Arts
Education (K–12) with a B.A. degree in Theatre and Speech Education.
The third program, a minor in Educational Studies, prepares students wishing to teach at the
secondary level. Wagner students with the minor in educational studies, a major in either English,
Spanish, biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, history, sociology, or political science, and the
requisite GPA are eligible to complete the 30 credit M.S.Ed. in Adolescent Education. On completion
students can be recommended for a New York State 7–12 Certification in a Secondary
Content area. In addition, the minor provides a focus for students who have an interest in
Education but do not wish to teach. (Students with a minor in educational studies are also eligible
for the M.S.Ed. in Childhood (elementary) Education (1–6).)
Note that the Department of Education obtained an overall pass rate of 94% for program year 2000–2001 on the
New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (LAST and ATS-W).
The English major focuses on literature in its own right and also explores literature as a reflection on
the political, social, and aesthetic values of the periods in which works were written. Faculty are committed
to developing a high level of critical reading and thinking skills as well as strong expository
and creative writing abilities, which are useful in careers in business, journalism, law, and education.
The interdisciplinary minor in environmental studies will encourage students to investigate the
nature and causes of environmental problems and to consider solutions to those problems. Courses
in the minor address the biological, physical, and social aspects of ecology and environment.
The interdisciplinary gender studies minor will encourage students to think about the origin and
meaning of gender identity. Courses in the minor consider gender differences from the biological,
psychological, social, political, and economic points of view. Students study how cultural, historical,
and biological factors influence gender roles and relationships, and how the private reality of
gender relates to its public experience.
Studying history today is critical to understanding breaking news and conflicting views of our own
and other cultures in our global world. History majors develop intellectual skills that equip them
well for decision-making in law, marketing, government, journalism, teaching, and other careers.
Students of history develop an elasticity of mind, as they argue about what actually happened and
make sense of complex events. Using newspapers, films, novels, and legal documents, they learn
how to read and research carefully and write persuasively and creatively.
Students interested in professional programs, the social sciences, the sciences, arts, or the
humanities can use interdisciplinary history courses, and a minor or major in history, to provide
context and make bridges to their primary field of interest. International history courses, for example,
provide an excellent pairing with a degree in international business or economics. Students
planning to pursue graduate studies in history should prepare themselves in the appropriate foreign
language.
The information systems minor emphasizes the practical application of knowledge with a focus on
design and implementation aspects of large-scale information systems for businesses. The minor is
designed for students seeking professional careers in information systems. The students are
required to take a number of courses in computer science and management.
This major reflects the global economic and political interdependence of the post-Cold War
world. Drawing on various disciplines, Wagner’s international affairs major helps students understand
how and why countries interact, and how the world has been influenced by history, politics,
economics, and culture. International affairs students study a foreign language in some depth, and
are encouraged to take part in Wagner’s Washington, D.C. internship and the Study Abroad program.
By honing their analytical, writing, and speaking skills, this major prepares students for
graduate study and careers in law, government, foreign service, international organizations, business,
journalism, and education, to name a few. The major prepares students to think internationally,
study internationally, and interact internationally.
Journalism (minor)
Students explore many aspects of journalism in this minor, including newspaper design and editing,
feature writing, reviewing, public relations, and photojournalism. Students are given intern
experience on the College newspaper as well as a final internship experience in some type media in
the New York metropolitan area.
A major is offered in Spanish. Minors are offered in French, German, Italian Studies and Spanish.
Course work is available in Latin. Wagner’s study abroad program provides an excellent learning
opportunity for foreign language students. Knowledge of languages helps graduates find positions
in government, public relations, marketing, business, health professions, and teaching.
Mathematics majors learn to think with precision and logical rigor and to make both finite and
abstract conclusions. Emphasis is placed on a broad range of applications. A minor in computer
science or management information systems is an option. Graduates are prepared for graduate
study or may choose careers in mathematics-related fields such as engineering, statistics, computing,
actuarial science, physics, and education.
In this major students take courses in microbiology, microbial genetics, clinical microbiology,
applied microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, and microbial physiology. Wagner is the
only liberal arts college in the northeastern United States offering this major as an undergraduate
degree. The major prepares students for graduate study and careers as microbiologists in public
health, hospital, industrial, or research laboratories.
The Music Department integrates studies in music theory, music history, and performance in a
liberal arts program that prepares students for careers as teachers, arts administrators, and performers
or for further graduate training. Students may participate in musical ensembles and also have
the option of taking individual music lessons. In addition students attend professional concerts,
operas, and ballet performances in the region. Additional options for students supported by the
music department include the dual major in music and childhood education and the music concentration
of the arts administration major, as well as the Music minor. An audition is recommended
but not required for admission into any of the Wagner music programs.
Emphasizing leadership and decision making, Wagner’s nursing program blends liberal arts and
intensive course work in nursing to prepare upper division graduate nurses for the intellectual and
technical challenges of the profession. Students are offered a variety of field experiences in selected
health care agencies. Wagner’s nursing programs are accredited by the New York State Education
Department and the National League for Nursing. The department is affiliated with the American
Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN
examinations and may work in a variety of health care settings.
The philosophy minor addresses issues in classical and modern philosophy. Students learn to
probe both abstract and concrete philosophical issues through intellectual inquiry and reason. The
curriculum places strong emphasis on the acquisition of logical and linguistic skills which can be
transferred into any area of intellectual endeavor when students graduate.
The Physician Assistant major consists of the two-year Pre-Physician Assistant Program followed by the three-year, professional Physician Assistant Program. Successful completion leads to the BS and MS degrees in Physician Assistant Studies and eligibility to take the national certifying examination leading to the title of Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C). During the first two years at Wagner College, students take courses in the biological and physical sciences, that comprise preparation for the physician assistant field, as well as the general education course requirements needed to proceed to the Physician Assistant Program. The three-year Physician Assistant Program is a comprehensive program of didactic (academic), clinical and research work that reflects upon the academic, clinical, and professional skills required of the physician assistant.
Physics majors receive a broad but rigorous education in basic scientific principles that govern the
behavior of matter and energy in nature. The program provides hands-on experience in electronics,
optics, nuclear physics, astronomy and solar energy. Students also take courses in chemistry,
mathematics, computer science, and the liberal arts. Senior students pursue research projects. The
College’s planetarium provides a rich enhancement to the program. Most graduates pursue graduate
study or enter highly competitive positions in industry and education.
Students take courses in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political
theory and can do internships in Albany or Washington, D.C., where they make important
professional contacts. The study of political science is valuable: first, citizens should understand the
democratic system; second, training in political processes and policies is useful in many careers;
finally, political science will help students develop their reasoning and analytical skills and build
their confidence in written and oral expression. All of these skills become the indispensable foundation
for adapting to change in the world of work.
Public Policy and Administration, B.A.
The aim of the major is to provide students interested in careers in public service with a liberal
education and the professional orientation in public policy and administration that is relevant to
the preparation of qualified persons for public service in contemporary society.
The major in psychology offers courses in all areas of psychological inquiry: biological, behavioral,
clinical, cognitive, humanistic, psychodynamic, and social. Emphasis is also placed on developmental
psychology, which draws from all of these approaches. Students learn the basic methodologies
of psychology as a science. They are also provided with opportunities for independent research
and field work experiences. The major in psychology prepares students for a diverse range of
careers in psychology and related fields including education, law, and social work.
This minor focuses on the history of religion and the religious traditions that form the ethical and
moral foundations of Western and non-Western societies. Religious studies prepares students for
church work and graduate studies toward careers in higher education and the ministry.
The Sociology/Anthropology major has a choice of four concentrations: academic sociology,
anthropology, family studies, and criminal justice. In Academic sociology students explore and
analyze the functioning of societies and the ways in which specific cultures and beliefs influence
the behavior and reflect the dynamics of individuals, groups, and societies. In anthropology, students
study different cultures in both their diversity and unifying nature. Major areas of modern
anthropology are studied as well as ancient cultures. Criminal justice focuses on law enforcement
theory and practice, correctional theory and practice, and criminal law. It prepares students for
entry-level programs in the criminal justice system. It also prepares students for graduate work
towards M.S., M.S.W., and J.D. degrees. Family studies focuses on contemporary family systems
and intervention strategies in current social work practices. Internships form an integral part of the
social work concentrations.
The Spanish major emphasizes communication skills, cultural awareness and an appreciation of
literature. All classes are taught entirely in the language and use proficiency-oriented methodologies.
The major prepares students for graduate studies or positions in the elementary and secondary
schools. By combining a major in Spanish with a major in another discipline such as business
or psychology, students can prepare for careers in international business or bilingual counseling.
The Wagner College theatre program, in the Department of Theatre and Speech, is a productionoriented
curriculum designed to meld the best dramatic history, theory, and dramaturgy with an
integrated, high-caliber, experientially oriented, robust theatre production program. This program
focuses on musical theatre production and produces 3–4 major musicals yearly. Various concentrations
are available: general theatre; performance; design/technology, and management; and theatre
and education. As befits our New York City location, Wagner emphasizes professional values with
a faculty of highly-credentialed, theatre practitioners. As student requirements vary between concentrations,
eligibility to enroll in certain courses may depend upon the student’s concentration.
For general theatre studies, management, and design/technology, an interview is required for
acceptance to the track. For the performance concentration, an audition is required.
Pre-Professional Programs
Prospective law students are free to choose among the wide variety of majors offered at Wagner
College. In addition to satisfying the specific requirements of a major, students are encouraged to
select a few law-related courses in business, philosophy, political science, and sociology. Because
entrance requirements may vary among law schools, students should consult the particular catalog
of the school which they plan to enter. Students are also required to take the Law School
Admission Test (LSAT) before applying for admission to law school. Prospective students may
contact the Office of Academic Advisement to obtain information about the pre-law program and
about the faculty advisors in the program.
Pre-Engineering
The pre-engineering program in the Department of Chemistry and Physics prepares students
through courses in physics, mathematics, and chemistry to transfer to an accredited engineering
school at the beginning of the third or fourth year of full-time study. A pre-engineering advisor
should be consulted upon entrance to the College.
Pre-Ministry
Students who are planning to apply for admission to a theological seminary are urged to include
in their college program a foreign language, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, religious studies,
education, English, and history. All pre-ministry students should plan their work in consultation
with their advisor and the Chaplain.
Wagner offers a variety of health related programs. The Wagner College Pre-Professional Health
Advisory Committee has responsibility for oversight of these programs. This committee assists students
with their overall preparation for entry into professional programs, guides students through
the application process, and writes committee letters endorsing the students’ bids for acceptance.
Wagner College offers programs in the following health-related pre-professional areas:
• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Veterinary Medicine
• Pharmacy
• Optometry
• Podiatry
In the pre-professional health programs described below, students take the prescribed courses at
Wagner College to prepare them for further study in specific health-related professions. Entry into
the program is competitive, and students interested in any of these programs must be admitted
into the pre-professional health program. The guidance of the committee ensures the student the
strongest possible application for the appropriate professional school. Additional information is
available from members of the Pre-Professional Committee.
Pre-Medicine
A pre-medical student may major in any subject. Students must satisfy all of the requirements of
their chosen major. In order to meet the minimum requirements of most medical schools, students
must take designated courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. The Pre Professional
Health Advisory Committee will not recommend a student who does not fulfill these
requirements. During the junior year, students should arrange the MCAT examination as well as
continued contact with the committee in order to secure a letter of recommendation. A cumulative
index of at least 3.5 (3.2 by the end of the freshman year) is necessary to obtain a recommendation
for medical school. Medical schools, in making their selections, take into account not only
the quality of the student’s college record and recommendations, but also the student’s score on the
MCAT and the results of a personal interview.
Pre-Dentistry
A pre-dental student may major in any subject. Students must satisfy all of the requirements of
their chosen major. In order to meet the minimum requirements of most dental schools, students
must take designated courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. Individual dental schools may also
have requirements in addition to those stipulated by Wagner College. A cumulative index of at
least 3.2 is necessary to obtain a recommendation for dental school. The dental schools, in making
their selections, take into account not only the quality of the student’s college record and recommendations,
but also the student’s score on the DAT and the results of a personal interview. (See
also the Articulated Program in Dentistry with New York University.)
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
A pre-veterinary student may major in any subject. Students must satisfy all of the requirements of
their chosen major. In order to meet the minimum requirements of most veterinary schools, students
must take designated courses in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and physics. Individual
veterinary schools may also have requirements in addition to those stipulated by Wagner College,
and students must familiarize themselves with these requirements. A cumulative index of at least
3.5 (3.2 by the end of the freshman year) is necessary to obtain a recommendation for veterinary
school. The veterinary schools, in making their selections, take into account not only the quality of
the student’s college record and recommendations, but also the student’s score on the GRE and
the results of a personal interview.
Other Programs
The Pre-Professional Health Advisory Committee will also provide support for students interested
in other health careers. These include pharmacy, optometry, and podiatry. Students should familiarize
themselves with the requirements for entry into the appropriate professional school. Typically
this will require courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The committee can assist students in
determining their course of study while at Wagner College. A cumulative index of at least 3.2 is
necessary to obtain a recommendation from the committee.
Joint Degree Program
Dentistry, B.S., D.D.S.
Through an articulation agreement with the New York University College of Dentistry, students
seeking to pursue an advanced degree in dentistry (D.D.S.) study at Wagner for three years and
major in Biology. During that time, students also participate in sessions conducted at and by
N.Y.U.
Students who successfully complete this three-year track and who meet the admissions
requirements of the College of Dentistry, then begin their studies in dentistry. After the first year
of study at N.Y.U., successful students are awarded a B.S. degree in biology from Wagner College.
In total, seven years of study are needed to complete the program.
