Undergraduate Majors

  • Accounting - The accounting program provides specialized training in financial reporting, auditing, tax, and cost accounting. Upon completion of all course and credit degree requirements, accounting majors are prepared to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination.
  • Africana Studies Africana Studies B.A. - Students will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in African and African American Studies. African American Studies is, in both content and analysis, interdisciplinary. Its objectives are to explore and evaluate the social, cultural, economic, personal and instructional conditions of peoples of African descent.
  • Animal Science Animal Science and Technology B.S. - Choose from three tracks: Animal Management, Animal Science or Pre-Veterinary
  • Anthropology Anthropology B.A. - The Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology offers courses in all major subfields of the study of humankind: archaeology, cultural anthropology, physical anthropology, and anthropological linguistics.
  • Aquaculture and Fisheries Technology Aquaculture and Fisheries Science B.S. - Aquaculture and Fishery Science at URI is designed to prepare students for professional or technical careers in aquaculture or fisheries oriented occupations. It is sufficiently broad to allow for specialization in either Fisheries or Aquaculture Science and Technology.
  • Art Art B.F.A., B.A. - The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art includes painting and drawing, sculpture, printmaking, film and video, digital art and design, and photography. Students work in various media to develop technical skills and to provide opportunities for creative expression as well as hands-on practical experience working closely with artist/instructors in classroom settings and one-to-one exchanges. The program educates art and art history students in the understanding, production, and analysis of visual art and culture.
  • Art History Art History B.A. - The Art History program offers a thorough introduction to the art and architecture of Europe and the Americas, beginning in ancient times to contemporary art. Students learn about the major monuments from the history of painting, sculpture, architecture, printmaking, photography, and more by studying them in their historical, social, and cultural contexts. Visiting artists, scholars, and curators enrich the regular course offerings with special lectures, workshops, and other events.
  • Biology Biological Sciences B.S. - The B.S. Biological Sciences program provides sound undergraduate training in basic sub-disciplines of biology and the supporting sciences of mathematics, chemistry, and physics. The program is highly flexible, allowing students to specialize in plant or animal biology, and in one or several sub-disciplines, such as ecology, physiology, evolution, behavior, cell or developmental biology.  The degree is ideal for students contemplating admission to a professional school (medical, dental, veterinary) or for graduate study in biological sciences and related fields.
  • Biology Biology B.A. - The B.A. in Biology provides a high degree of flexibility. Students earn a liberal arts degree, which provides a foundation in biology with the option to choose courses in other disciplines. Students may want to use this opportunity to obtain further training in a sub-discipline of biology. For example, students could prepare for a career in scientific illustration or technical writing by double majoring in biology and art, or biology and English or journalism. Majors in biology and business administration would be excellent preparation to enter hospital administration or the business sector of pharmaceuticals.
  • Biomedical Engineering Biomedical Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Our biomedical engineers apply engineering methods and principles, adapting technology to solve problems in the life sciences and medicine in order to improve and save lives. Our students learn how to design and develop medical equipment and instrumentation for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and health problems as well as for use in biological research.
  • Biotechnology B.S. - Biotechnology involves the use of living systems and organisms to develop or make products, for example enhancing crop yields through genetic engineering of seeds, and creating medical devices that address a variety of human issues.
  • Cell and Molecular Biology Cell and Molecular Biology B.S. - This major is the study of cells and the biological macromolecules—including DNA, RNA, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates—that determine the structure and function of cells. The cell and molecular biology major provides excellent preparation for careers in medicine (the major automatically satisfies the pre-health course requirements), biomedical and life science research, and biotechnology.
  • Chemical Engineering Chemical Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - With an emphasis on hands-on experience, our students combine learning in chemistry, physics and biology to prepare for careers in chemical production, pharmaceuticals, polymers, new materials, renewable energy, environmental sustainability and more.
  • Forensic Chemistry Chemistry and Forensic Chemistry B.S. - This degree emphasizes a strong preparation in chemistry supplemented by an introduction into the field of forensic science. The program features exposure to forensic scientists from around the country who give presentations at the weekly Forensic Science seminar.
  • Chemistry Chemistry B.A., B.S. - The B.A in Chemistry is designed to provide the student flexibility in the breadth of courses taken across the University while also providing a firm foundation. The B.S. in Chemistry emphasizes breath of training in chemistry, and is highly recommended if students plan to seek an M.S. or Ph.D. in chemistry.
  • Chinese Chinese B.A. - The B.A. in Chinese allows students to major, minor, or enroll in dual degree programs, like the International Business or Engineering Program (IBP or IEP). URI also offers the Chinese Language Flagship Program, an honors program designed to help students from any major achieve superior fluency through a five-year plan.
  • Chinese Language Flagship Program - In this five-year program, you’ll earn a bachelor’s degree in your chosen academic discipline, along with a B.A. in Mandarin Chinese with superior language proficiency.
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering Civil Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - From implementing smart transit systems, to designing wind farm foundations, to ensuring water quality, to crafting evacuation models, to creating safer bridges, our civil engineers provide the backbone of the world’s infrastructure. We place an emphasis on global learning that bridges classroom knowledge with projects abroad.
  • Classical Studies Classical Studies B.A. - Choose from two tracks: Classical Civilization & Culture, or Classics
  • Communication Studies Communication Studies B.A.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Students selecting this major may pursue studies in business and professional communication, communication theory, oral interpretation, rhetoric and public address, or public relations.
  • Communication Studies, B.A. (Online Degree Completion)
    Online Program
    - URI’s online degree completion program in communication studies will equip you with the skills needed to adapt to an ever-changing communication and media landscape. You’ll develop confidence in your writing and communication skills while you learn about areas such as sports media, advertising, marketing, digital media, and web design.
  • Speech Language Pathology Communicative Disorders B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Communicative Disorders majors study the anatomical, physiological, neurological, linguistic, acoustic, cognitive, social and cultural bases of communication disorders.  This undergraduate degree can help prepare students for further study as professional speech-language pathologists and audiologists.
  • Computer Engineering Computer Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Our students learn to develop computer systems that drive the modern world. We develop better ways to route Internet traffic, improve data security and integrity, provide clear cell phone reception and even predict the weather. Our students learn to combine hardware concepts from electrical engineering with software concepts from computer science to design these systems and others.
  • Computer Science Computer Science B.A., B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The Computer Science major is designed to provide broad introduction in the fundamentals of computer science including software and systems, programming languages, machine architecture, and theoretical foundations of computing. The required mathematics preparation provides a basis for advanced work.
  • Criminology and Criminal Justice Criminology and Criminal Justice B.A. - The B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare you for entry level positions in criminal justice and related fields, especially at the state and federal level, or for advanced study in graduate and professional programs.
  • Data Science B.A., B.S. - Data science is a rapidly emerging discipline that prepares you to collect, clean, organize, provide access to, analyze and communicate data. It is a combination of computer science, databases, ethics, mathematics, and statistics at its core. You will ultimately learn to apply these skills to multiple other domains such as art, biology, business, climate, health, humanities, oceanography, science, social science, and more.
  • Dietetics Dietetics B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The B.S. in Dietetics prepares you for a career as a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, where you’ll help people meet their nutritional needs through diet counseling and nutrition support, with the overall goals of improving health and preventing disease throughout the lifespan.
  • Pharmacy Doctor of Pharmacy, Pharm.D.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum is a ‘zero to six’ program, which means you complete the program in six years, graduating with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.  The program stresses critical thinking, active learning and clinical experience to prepare you for practice in a variety of professional settings.
  • Early Childhood Education B.S. - The B.S. in Early Childhood Education is a fully accredited program that leads to an initial teaching certificate for pre-school and primary grades (Pre-K to 2) in Rhode Island.
  • stock market graph Economics B.A., B.S. - The Bachelor of Arts degree provides a deep knowledge of the world’s economy in the best traditions of the liberal arts. The Bachelor of Science degree has two options: Applied Economics or Theory & Methods.
  • Electrical Engineering Electrical Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Electrical engineering lies at the heart of modern science. Our students develop the circuits that form the basis of computer and communication systems and provide the controls for large-scale systems. Our students are introduced to a wide range of applications from electronics and device fabrication, to computers, to control and communication, to electromagnetics and optics.
  • Elementary Education B.A. - The Elementary Education Program is a fully accredited certification program which prepares teachers of children in grades 1-6. The curriculum offers a balanced program of academic preparation and professional training.
  • English English B.A.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Through a rich array of course offerings in literary, film, cultural studies and creative writing, students are rigorously trained in critical reading, thinking and writing skills, to ensure their preparation in a broad range of canonical and non-canonical texts.
  • Environmental and Natural Resource Economics Environmental and Natural Resource Economics B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Choose from two tracks: Environmental Economics and Management, or Green Markets and Sustainability.
  • Environmental Education B.S. - The B.S. in Environmental Education is designed for active learners who are passionate about the environment and enjoy engaging with people of all ages. The program prepares students for professional careers in non-formal education settings such as nature centers, zoos, aquariums, parks, higher education, and governmental policy entities and lobbyists.
  • Environmental Science and Management Environmental Science and Management B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Environmental Science and Management incorporates course work in water resources, geospatial technologies, wetland ecology, wildlife biology, soil science, forestry, and land use/environmental quality relationships.
  • Film Media Film Media B.A. - Film/Media is an interdisciplinary program offering hands-on experience in documentary, experimental, and new media production, balanced with an emphasis on international cinemas, film/media history, criticism and theory.
  • Finance Finance - The finance major provides students with the necessary foundation for entry level positions in banking, corporate finance, and investments.
  • French French B.A. - The majority of French majors are double or triple majors, and most finish in four years. There are 47 different majors that have been combined with French at URI. The majority of French majors study abroad during their junior year and/or during a summer session.
  • Gender and Women's Studies Gender and Women’s Studies B.A. - Gender and Women's Studies uses feminist and interdisciplinary methods to teach, conduct research, and expand existing bodies of knowledge. Critical thinking, the production of theory, and the assumption of community and global responsibility are integral to these methods.
  • Business Administration General Business Administration - A major in general business administration offers you the opportunity to study all phases of a business operation. This major is an excellent option if you are seeking a broad business background or are interested in obtaining a general business background at the undergraduate level before pursuing more specialized graduate work.
  • Geology Geology and Geological Oceanography B.S. - The program is designed for students with an interest in earth, environmental or oceanographic science careers or affiliated fields such as environmental law and earth/environmental science education. Geoscientists are employed by three segments of the economy: private, government and academia.
  • German German B.A. - This major offers a comprehensive and inclusive curriculum in German language, literature and culture. German majors achieve a high level of German language proficiency and intercultural competence. Combining German with other disciplines through the URI Signature International Programs and participating in internship opportunities in German-speaking countries will enable you to become a true global professional in your field.
  • Global Business Management - This major will equip students with the ability to work comfortably in more than one corner of the global marketplace. Drawing on the resources of the College of Business and the University, this interdisciplinary program allows you to understand the languages and cultural/political contexts that affect an enterprise.
  • Global Language and Area Studies B.A. - The Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures offers a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Global Language and Area Studies (GLAS), where you can choose one of three tracks: Arabic Studies, Classical Studies, or Japanese Studies.
  • Green Business Program - This interdisciplinary double degree program is perfect for you if you are interested in topics such as socially responsible investment, social or sustainable marketing, renewable energy, conservation economics, and more.
  • Health and Physical Education B.S. - If you are interested in teaching physical and health education at an elementary or secondary school, the Health and Physical Education (HPE) major is for you. Upon completion of the program, you will be certified to teach in Rhode Island, as well as most other states.
  • Health Studies B.S. - This interdisciplinary program prepares students for non-clinical careers in public health, health education promotion, health services, and health-related research working in for-profit companies, hospitals and community health agencies, and not-for-profit organizations. Specializations include Global and Environmental Health, Health Promotion, and Health Services.
  • History History B.A.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - History majors learn valuable skills including how to analyze complex issues, plan research projects, locate information, collect and interpret evidence, understand cultural differences, read critically, write effectively, and work independently. Degrees in history lead to career opportunities in business, education, law, public service, and historical research. Students have enough electives to complete a second major, complete the Teacher Education program, study abroad, or take advantage of internship programs.
  • helping hands reaching out Human Development and Family Science B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - This major prepares you to work with children, families, adolescents, and older adults in a broad range of human service and community settings. You will choose from professional preparation concentrations that include Counseling and Social Services, Child and Family Development, and Health and Aging Services.
  • Systems Engineering Industrial and Systems Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Our students improve systems across all industries, including defense, aviation, manufacturing and health care. We ensure these systems operate at top efficiency and safety. We combine broad engineering skills with behavioral science to graduate students ready to tackle even the most complex system challenges.
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship - The major in innovation and entrepreneurship is designed for students who will one day own their own business, innovate within a large firm or provide advice and goods or services to a small firm. The major provides students with the tools to identify and evaluate business opportunities, develop and execute a business concept and determine what resources are required to effectively manage a new venture.
  • Interdisciplinary Neuroscience B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The B.S. program is designed to provide you with a foundational understanding of the brain and the nervous system. Our interdisciplinary approach will provide you with knowledge in areas such as nervous system diseases and current therapeutic strategies, the cellular molecular biology of the nervous system, cognition and behavior.
  • International Business Program - IBP students study language and culture each semester along with their business curriculum, and upon completion of this five-year-program, earn both a B.S. in Business Administration and a B.A. in Chinese, French, German, Italian, or Spanish.
  • International Computer Science Program - The International Computer Science Program (ICSP) is a five-year, dual-degree program where students earn a B.S. in Computer Science and a B.A. in Chinese, German, French, Italian, or Spanish. The program is designed to fill the growing need among global companies for multilingual professionals with a computer science background.
  • International Engineering Program - The IEP is a five-year program in which students earn two degrees: a B.S. in Engineering and a B.A. in a foreign language (Chinese, German, French, Italian, or Spanish).
  • International Studies and Diplomacy Program
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - This is an interdisciplinary dual major undergraduate program, combining majors in International Studies and a modern language. Study abroad is required for the program, and you will gain essential knowledge and skills in international politics, economics, cultures and language. The program prepares you for careers in Foreign Service, diplomacy, international non-governmental organizations, and more.
  • Italian Italian B.A. - Knowledge of the Italian language affords access to one of the West's richest cultural traditions as well as to one of Europe's most vital contemporary societies. Italian is a primary language for research in art history, music, philosophy, literary studies, and archaeology.
  • Journalism Journalism B.A. - Journalism majors gain a multi-disciplinary, hands-on learning experience as they are prepared for working in all aspects of news, from traditional newspaper or television stations to TV network reporters or new media entrepreneurs.
  • Kinesiology Kinesiology B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Kinesiology studies all aspects of human movement—from the cellular level to the level of global physical cultures. Students can choose one of four major specializations: Exercise Science, Health Fitness, Physical Education Teacher Education, and Early Contingent Physical Therapy.
  • Landscape Architecture Landscape Architecture B.L.A.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree (BLA) is designed to prepare you for careers in design, planning, preservation and restoration of the landscape by applying art, science and technology to achieve the best use of land and water resources.
  • Management - The College of Business Administration offers a curriculum leading to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in management. The curriculum is intended to provide the student with a background in general management of a firm.
  • Marine Affairs Marine Affairs B.A., B.S. - The Bachelor of Arts in Marine Affairs is an interdisciplinary study of the effective marine and coastal management. The Bachelor of Science in Marine Affairs puts a heavier emphasis on science and mathematics than the Bachelor of Arts in Marine Affairs.
  • Marine Biology Marine Biology B.S. - The B.S. in Marine Biology is designed for students who plan on pursuing marine biology at a professional level and those who would like to use their training in marine biology in the context of a wide range of career options. It encourages students to explore the vast world of marine biology while providing an important foundation in modern biological sciences as well as in chemistry, math, physics and oceanography.
  • Marketing - As a marketing major, you will obtain the skills and knowledge that will allow you to shape the strategic direction of every type of company from the smallest start-ups to the world’s largest firms. You will learn how to develop new products, build strong brands, set optimal prices, create powerful communications, utilize digital media, target markets, and manage customer relationships and product distribution within a dynamic global environment.
  • Mathematics Mathematics B.A., B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The B.A. is a popular choice for students pursuing an education degree or a second major, while the B.S. offers more emphasis on coursework and theory, preparing you well for graduate study in math. The Applied Mathematics track also has an option to pursue a 5-year bachelor's to master's.
  • Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - We create the products that you use every day. Our work enhances cars, energy systems, medical devices, nuclear power and other equipment upon which our society depends. Our labs develop blast-resistant materials, innovative medical diagnostic tools and new alloy materials.
  • Medical Laboratory Science Medical Laboratory Science B.S. - The major in Medical Laboratory Science has two tracks. The Medical Laboratory Science Track includes a one-year, accredited internship at several regional medical centers and prepares you to become a certified/licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist.
  • Music Music B.A., B.M. - The B.A. in Music combines a program of performance, history and theory with more in-depth study in the liberal arts, and offers concentrations in Music, Music History and Literature, and Jazz Studies. The Bachelor of Music degree is the first-level professional degree in music, with concentrations offered in Performance, Music Education, Composition, and Music Therapy.
  • Nursing Nursing B.S. - The B.S. prepares you to become a professional nurse, eligible to take the State Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN). You will be eligible for an entry level position in medical, surgical, geriatric, maternity, pediatric, psychiatric-mental health or community nursing in a variety of settings: hospitals, home health care, clinics, community health agencies, hospices or the armed services.
  • Nursing Nursing R.N. to B.S.
    Online Program
    - Offered 100% online, the RN to B.S. program is designed for registered nurses (RNs) with an associate degree or diploma in nursing who wish to obtain a bachelor's degree.
  • Dietetics Nutrition B.S. - Nutrition is an applied science that draws from areas of biology, chemistry, math, biochemistry, anatomy, physiology and microbiology and applies scientific knowledge to human health and wellness while studying the social, economic, cultural, and psychological implications of food and eating.
  • Ocean Engineering Ocean Engineering B.S. - Our nationally recognized program is a leader in ocean instrumentation and robotics, underwater acoustics, marine hydrodynamics and tsunamis, coastal modeling, marine geomechanics, coastal and offshore structures, and offshore power generation.
  • students working the lab Pharmaceutical Sciences B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences  prepares you for careers in the pharmaceutical, consumer products, and healthcare industries.
  • Philosophy B.A. - The Bachelors degree in philosophy is concerned with teaching students the methodology of clear and logical thinking. In addition, it deals with ultimate questions of human existence, such as the nature of morality, the purpose of human life, the place of humans in the universe, the problem of evil, the nature of scientific theorizing, and other, similar problems.
  • Physics Physics and Physical Oceanography B.S. - The Bachelor of Science in Physics and Physical Oceanography program is unique in the entire United States. It is jointly offered by the Physics Department and the Graduate School of Oceanography. Students in this program are optimally prepared for graduate studies in oceanography.
  • Physics Physics B.S. - The BS in Physics program provides the best preparation for students planning to move on to graduate studies in physics and for students seeking careers as professional physicists in industry or government. The curriculum provides a general background in both theoretical and experimental physics.
  • A close up of seedlings in a green house Photo by CHU TAI on Unsplash Plant Sciences B.S. - Plant Sciences prepares students for professional careers in horticulture with a central focus on sustainability.
  • Political Science Political Science, B.A.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The B.A. in political science includes the study of governments, political philosophy, international political organizations, civil and international conflict, public policies, political processes, political movements, campaigns and political behavior.
  • A hand holding a stylus, on top of a tablet Professional and Public Writing B.A. - The bachelor's degree in Writing and Rhetoric supports practice of writing in a wide range of settings. You will learn to collect information, conduct research, compose, analyze, and revise texts of many kinds.
  • Psychology Psychology B.A., B.S. - Psychology is the study of the human mind and behavior, which means that it’s all around us, all the time. Studying the subject can help students in whatever profession they choose.
  • An old-fashioned microphone Public Relations B.A. - The Public Relations Program combines traditional courses in writing and public relations theory with courses invoking critical thought about the pervasive impact of social media within the business environment.
  • Secondary Education B.A. - This degree leads to an initial teaching certificate for grades 7-12 in the area of specialization. Secondary certifications are offered in biology, chemistry, general science, physics, English, modern languages, social studies, history, and math.
  • A crown of people walking on a floor with stripes of light and dark. Sociology B.A. - Sociology at URI provides students with a wide range of opportunities and challenges. Built on the University’s solid foundation of general education, our programs of study offer extensive course work in family and intimate relations, criminology and corrections, and institutional analysis.
  • Spanish Spanish B.A. - Students receiving a B.A. in Spanish will demonstrate advanced skills in speaking, reading, writing and listening.
  • Sports Media and Communication B.A. - This interdisciplinary major exposes you to historical, critical, analytical, practical, and professional approaches to sports media and communication.
  • Strategic Communication, B.A. Degree Completion
    Online Program
    - URI Online’s B.A. Degree Completion Program in Strategic Communication allows you to develop your writing and interpersonal communication styles, hone your public speaking skills and think critically about solutions to real-world communication challenges. The program is specifically for adult learners who previously started, but did not complete, a four-year undergraduate degree and have been away […]
  • Supply Chain Management
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - The URI supply chain management major focuses on the strategic planning, design, operations, transportation, logistics, and improvement of all activities involved in the procurement, manufacture, and delivery of goods and services.
  • Furrows of tilled soil. Photo by Zbysiu Rodak on Unsplash Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Students completing this interdisciplinary program will graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to sustainable development, production, management, and utilization of terrestrial and aquatic microorganisms, plants and animals by society worldwide.
  • Fashion Textile Marketing B.S. - The Textile Marketing degree combines a major in textiles with courses that meet the degree requirements in the College of Business Administration.
  • Fashion Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design (TMD) is designed for those interested in fashion coordination, buying, and retail management.
  • Picture of a stage with a red curtain. Photo by Rob Laughter on Unsplash. Theatre B.A., B.F.A. - The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theatre allows an intensive specialization in one or two fields of your choice: Acting, Directing, Design and Technology, Stage and Theatre Management. The B.A. in Theatre/Elementary Education prepares you to become a Theatre teacher.
  • Coyote in the snow, picture by Alan Emery Wildlife and Conservation Biology B.S.
    Bachelor's to Master's
    - Students enrolled in the major study the natural sciences and principles of managing wildlife populations and their habitats. This major fulfills the educational requirements for certification as an Associate Wildlife Biologist by The Wildlife Society and provides an excellent foundation for graduate school.
  • World Language Education B.A. - The World Language Education program allows you to further develop your language skills and broaden your awareness of other cultures. Offering tracks in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Latin, Portuguese, and Spanish, the program presents you with unique opportunities to impact your community and work toward making the U.S. a more multicultural nation.