Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know

• What is a Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) degree?

  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.

  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.

  You may choose to focus your B.P.S. degree in one of five concentrations.

• How long will it take me to complete the program?

  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. Prospective students are encouraged to contact an advisor prior to transferring to maximize transferrable credits.

• Can this degree program be completed entirely online?

  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.

• How much will the program cost me?

  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.

• How will I know which of my previous credits will transfer?

  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.

• How long are my previous credits good for?

  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.

• Can I apply to graduate school with a B.P.S. degree?

  Yes. A bachelor’s degree in professional studies allows you to continue your studies and work toward an advanced degree.

• Can non-degree certificates lead to a B.P.S. degree?

  Yes. Our Project Management and Sustainability and 21st Century Business Solutions certificates are stackable, leading you directly into our B.P.S. program should you seek a four-year degree and meet the program course prerequisites.

• Do I have to complete the course prerequisites before applying?

  No. However, you can accelerate your pace to degree completion by transferring in those courses. Students who graduated with an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degree from a South Carolina technical college waive all prerequisite requirements.

  View Program Prerequisites
• Do I need to complete an associate degree before applying?

  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 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.