Academics
The University of Northern Virginia offers a vast array of degree programs and areas of study for both undergraduate and graduate students. Our comprehensive range of programs ensures that you can find a path that aligns with your interests and career aspirations, and your academic pursuits can be tailored to fit your personal and professional goals. UNVA provides opportunities to delve deeply into your chosen field. You can also explore interdisciplinary studies that combine multiple areas of expertise, enhancing your educational experience and broadening your career prospects. You have the flexibility to study abroad, pursue a minor alongside your major, or even earn dual degrees simultaneously. In many fields, you can even begin pursuing a master’s degree while still completing your undergraduate studies.
Star Professors:
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David Evans, Ph. D.
Chair for the Department of Management
Dr. David Evans has been recognized as UNVA’s top-rated professor for five straight years. As an organizational psychologist, he is a leading expert on how we can find motivation and meaning and live more generous and creative lives. His research focuses on the effect of emerging technologies on consumers’ behavior, business strategy, and market structure. He is particularly interested in multi-channel coordination and examines issues in multi-channel retail, advertising, and pricing. He studies how consumers respond to different forms of advertising and how companies can strategically use new advertising channels to connect with their consumers. Dr. Evans received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas and his B.A. from Texas A&M. He has received awards for distinguished scholarly achievement from the Academy of Management and the National Science Foundation and has been recognized as one of the world’s most-cited, most prolific, and most influential researchers in business and economics.
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Gary Horris, Ph. D.
Chair of Department of Information Technology
Dr. Gary Norris is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Northern Virginia. He joined the UNVA faculty in 2017, is an expert in artificial intelligence, data science, and network science, and is motivated by the question of how technology can advance the common good through interdisciplinary research. As such, his research is not only at the frontier of fundamental methods and algorithms but is also making interdisciplinary and translational advances for societal impact. Dr. Norris received a B.S. from Cornell University in 1992 and an M.S. from New York University. He received his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Georgia in 1998. From 1996 to 2012, he worked at Google Corporation, eventually as a Senior Computer Scientist. He also is the recipient of the 2018 IEEE CIS Outstanding Early Career Award, the IBM Watson Faculty Award, the IBM Big Data and Analytics Faculty Award, and the 1st Source Bank Technology Commercialization Award.
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Donna Simms, Ph. D.
Chair of Department of Accounting & Finance
Dr. Donna Simms is a dedicated and passionate Professor in Finance, with a strong educational background and a deep commitment to student success. She holds a Master’s degree in Accounting and earned his Ph.D. in Finance. Dr. Simms’s teaching philosophy revolves around student-centered learning. He is deeply invested in his students’ success, engagement, development, and overall wellness. He believes in equipping them with the latest knowledge in finance, integrating real-world certifications such as CPA/CFA into his teaching materials. She received her Ph.D. in Finance from the University of Florida, M.S. in Accounting, and M.B.A. from the University of Louisiana. Her research relates broadly to how information is produced and used in firms and capital markets. Using theoretical models and archival data, she studies issues involving corporate governance, regulation, disclosure, lobbying, investor preferences for corporate social responsibility, audit quality and non-audit services, executive compensation, entrepreneurship, and common ownership. Her research has been published widely in accounting, finance, and management journals.
Undergraduates
An undergraduate degree is the starting point to your future. Consider it the academic foundation. It’s typically the first degree you can work on at the university level.
Your undergraduate degree is about exploration and discovery. Expand your thinking with a variety of courses, both through your program and through electives. No matter what program you choose, from Music to Science, you’ll work on critical skills for the future like critical thinking, communication, and citizenship.
It’s all about finding something you’re passionate about. The truth is, you might not know right now. That’s okay. The common first year at Western lets you explore.
Not sure where to start? Explore the undergraduate faculties and programs at UNVA. Our undergraduates can choose from the following degree programs. The links listed below provide information about these primary majors. Please note that information about associated academic concentrations, supplementary majors, and minors can be found on the websites of each college and school.
School of Business
- Accounting
- Business Intelligence
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Marketing
School of Technology
- Data Communication and Networking
- Computer Science
- Cyber Security
- Data Science
- Management Information Systems
Star Professors:
Graduates
The University of Northern Virginia offers over 19 academic and professional graduate programs that will challenge and prepare you for whatever path you will take after graduate school. Graduate schools, in contrast to undergraduate studies, have more rigorous coursework and higher expectations. Graduate students spend more time reading and conducting research than the average undergraduate student. Coursework is more specialized and specific in content. A complete list of graduate programs offered provides more information about each program as well as access to the program and university websites. We encourage you to review these pages and then contact the program and faculty to make sure that the graduate program would be the right fit for you.
The timeline for completion of a graduate degree will vary depending on three factors:
1.The type of degree you pursue.
2.Your desired subject area.
3.The specific institution at which you are studying.
On average, however, those enrolled in a master’s program full-time will likely complete their degree within one-and-a-half to three years. Individuals who pursue their master’s degree part-time might take longer than three years to complete it, depending on how many credits they enroll in each semester.
UNVA offers its master’s degree programs from three schools:
School of Business:
- Master of Business Administration in Accounting
- Master of Business Administration in Business Management
- Master of Business Administration in Finance
- Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management
- Master of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management
- Master of Business Administration in Human Resources Management
- Master of Business Administration in Marketing
- Master of Business Administration in Pharmaceutical Management
- Master of Business Administration in Project Management
- Master of Accountancy
- Executive MBA
School of Education:
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education
- Master of Education in Educational Technology
- Master of Education in TESOL
School of Technology:
- Master of Science inArtificial Intelligence
- Master of Science in Business Intelligence
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity
- Master of Science in Information Systems Technology
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems
Star Professors:
Doctorate
Take part in a scholarly journey of unparalleled depth and innovation with UNVA’s doctoral programs. The University offers a wide variety of doctorate programs to professionals who are interested in pursuing advanced learning opportunities. Earning a doctoral degree is the highest peak in academic achievement, and only the most dedicated students choose to take their graduate education to this terminal level. Pursuing a doctoral degree is not just an academic pursuit; it’s an investment in becoming a trailblazer, a thought leader, and a lifelong learner. It’s a transformative journey that propels you to the forefront of your field, leaving an enduring legacy of excellence and innovation.
Doctoral programs typically involve a comprehensive range of credit hours, providing in-depth coursework and advanced training in your chosen field. UNVA’s Doctoral Studies are focused on increasing your specialized knowledge by designing programs that are academically challenging to help build modern leaders. These degrees are both challenging and intellectually stimulating, yet collaborative, with opportunities to network with other doctoral learners. These credit hours encompass specialized courses, seminars, and research-intensive modules tailored to your academic and professional interests.
UNVA offers two kinds of terminal degrees: Doctor of Philosophy and professional doctorate.
PhD vs. Professional Doctorate:
- A PhD is a research or academic degree that is typically pursued by those who want to conduct original research and expand existing knowledge in their particular field.
- A professional doctorate focuses on practical professional skills and is typically pursued by those who want to develop advanced skills and knowledge that can be applied in the field in which they work.
One degree is not “better” or more advanced than the other—the difference lies in their focus (research versus application).
When deciding between a PhD vs. a doctorate, it’s important to understand that while both are doctoral degrees, the educational goals and typical career paths for each type of degree differ.
When it comes time to choose, it’s good to know that both PhD degrees and professional doctorates have their strengths. Your decision should be based on what you want to study and how you want to use your degree.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
For those seeking advanced qualifications, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) may be ideal. This program covers current business practices and theories.
Doctor of Education (EdD)
A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a practitioner-focused degree that offers various specializations. Earning an EdD also helps individuals become more effective leaders and learners in their areas of expertise.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is a doctoral degree available in various disciplines. UNVA offers PhD program in information technology, where students research to advance current knowledge or develop new theories.
Star Professors:
UNVA Catalog
Academics
The University of Northern Virginia offers a vast array of degree programs and areas of study for both undergraduate and graduate students. Our comprehensive range of programs ensures that you can find a path that aligns with your interests and career aspirations, and your academic pursuits can be tailored to fit your personal and professional goals. UNVA provides opportunities to delve deeply into your chosen field. You can also explore interdisciplinary studies that combine multiple areas of expertise, enhancing your educational experience and broadening your career prospects. You have the flexibility to study abroad, pursue a minor alongside your major, or even earn dual degrees simultaneously. In many fields, you can even begin pursuing a master’s degree while still completing your undergraduate studies.
Star Professors:
-
-
David Evans, Ph. D.
Chair for the Department of Management
Dr. David Evans has been recognized as UNVA’s top-rated professor for five straight years. As an organizational psychologist, he is a leading expert on how we can find motivation and meaning and live more generous and creative lives. His research focuses on the effect of emerging technologies on consumers’ behavior, business strategy, and market structure. He is particularly interested in multi-channel coordination and examines issues in multi-channel retail, advertising, and pricing. He studies how consumers respond to different forms of advertising and how companies can strategically use new advertising channels to connect with their consumers. Dr. Evans received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas and his B.A. from Texas A&M. He has received awards for distinguished scholarly achievement from the Academy of Management and the National Science Foundation and has been recognized as one of the world’s most-cited, most prolific, and most influential researchers in business and economics.
-
-
Gary Horris, Ph. D.
Chair of Department of Information Technology
Dr. Gary Norris is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Northern Virginia. He joined the UNVA faculty in 2017, is an expert in artificial intelligence, data science, and network science, and is motivated by the question of how technology can advance the common good through interdisciplinary research. As such, his research is not only at the frontier of fundamental methods and algorithms but is also making interdisciplinary and translational advances for societal impact. Dr. Norris received a B.S. from Cornell University in 1992 and an M.S. from New York University. He received his Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Georgia in 1998. From 1996 to 2012, he worked at Google Corporation, eventually as a Senior Computer Scientist. He also is the recipient of the 2018 IEEE CIS Outstanding Early Career Award, the IBM Watson Faculty Award, the IBM Big Data and Analytics Faculty Award, and the 1st Source Bank Technology Commercialization Award.
-
-
Donna Simms, Ph. D.
Chair of Department of Accounting & Finance
Dr. Donna Simms is a dedicated and passionate Professor in Finance, with a strong educational background and a deep commitment to student success. She holds a Master’s degree in Accounting and earned his Ph.D. in Finance. Dr. Simms’s teaching philosophy revolves around student-centered learning. He is deeply invested in his students’ success, engagement, development, and overall wellness. He believes in equipping them with the latest knowledge in finance, integrating real-world certifications such as CPA/CFA into his teaching materials. She received her Ph.D. in Finance from the University of Florida, M.S. in Accounting, and M.B.A. from the University of Louisiana. Her research relates broadly to how information is produced and used in firms and capital markets. Using theoretical models and archival data, she studies issues involving corporate governance, regulation, disclosure, lobbying, investor preferences for corporate social responsibility, audit quality and non-audit services, executive compensation, entrepreneurship, and common ownership. Her research has been published widely in accounting, finance, and management journals.
Undergraduates
An undergraduate degree is the starting point to your future. Consider it the academic foundation. It’s typically the first degree you can work on at the university level.
Your undergraduate degree is about exploration and discovery. Expand your thinking with a variety of courses, both through your program and through electives. No matter what program you choose, from Music to Science, you’ll work on critical skills for the future like critical thinking, communication, and citizenship.
It’s all about finding something you’re passionate about. The truth is, you might not know right now. That’s okay. The common first year at Western lets you explore.
Not sure where to start? Explore the undergraduate faculties and programs at UNVA. Our undergraduates can choose from the following degree programs. The links listed below provide information about these primary majors. Please note that information about associated academic concentrations, supplementary majors, and minors can be found on the websites of each college and school.
School of Business
- Accounting
- Business Intelligence
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Marketing
School of Technology
- Data Communication and Networking
- Computer Science
- Cyber Security
- Data Science
- Management Information Systems
Star Professors:
Graduates
The University of Northern Virginia offers over 19 academic and professional graduate programs that will challenge and prepare you for whatever path you will take after graduate school. Graduate schools, in contrast to undergraduate studies, have more rigorous coursework and higher expectations. Graduate students spend more time reading and conducting research than the average undergraduate student. Coursework is more specialized and specific in content. A complete list of graduate programs offered provides more information about each program as well as access to the program and university websites. We encourage you to review these pages and then contact the program and faculty to make sure that the graduate program would be the right fit for you.
The timeline for completion of a graduate degree will vary depending on three factors:
1.The type of degree you pursue.
2.Your desired subject area.
3.The specific institution at which you are studying.
On average, however, those enrolled in a master’s program full-time will likely complete their degree within one-and-a-half to three years. Individuals who pursue their master’s degree part-time might take longer than three years to complete it, depending on how many credits they enroll in each semester.
UNVA offers its master’s degree programs from three schools:
School of Business:
- Master of Business Administration in Accounting
- Master of Business Administration in Business Management
- Master of Business Administration in Finance
- Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management
- Master of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management
- Master of Business Administration in Human Resources Management
- Master of Business Administration in Marketing
- Master of Business Administration in Pharmaceutical Management
- Master of Business Administration in Project Management
- Master of Accountancy
- Executive MBA
School of Education:
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education
- Master of Education in Educational Technology
- Master of Education in TESOL
School of Technology:
- Master of Science inArtificial Intelligence
- Master of Science in Business Intelligence
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity
- Master of Science in Information Systems Technology
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems
Star Professors:
Doctorate
Take part in a scholarly journey of unparalleled depth and innovation with UNVA’s doctoral programs. The University offers a wide variety of doctorate programs to professionals who are interested in pursuing advanced learning opportunities. Earning a doctoral degree is the highest peak in academic achievement, and only the most dedicated students choose to take their graduate education to this terminal level. Pursuing a doctoral degree is not just an academic pursuit; it’s an investment in becoming a trailblazer, a thought leader, and a lifelong learner. It’s a transformative journey that propels you to the forefront of your field, leaving an enduring legacy of excellence and innovation.
Doctoral programs typically involve a comprehensive range of credit hours, providing in-depth coursework and advanced training in your chosen field. UNVA’s Doctoral Studies are focused on increasing your specialized knowledge by designing programs that are academically challenging to help build modern leaders. These degrees are both challenging and intellectually stimulating, yet collaborative, with opportunities to network with other doctoral learners. These credit hours encompass specialized courses, seminars, and research-intensive modules tailored to your academic and professional interests.
UNVA offers two kinds of terminal degrees: Doctor of Philosophy and professional doctorate.
PhD vs. Professional Doctorate:
- A PhD is a research or academic degree that is typically pursued by those who want to conduct original research and expand existing knowledge in their particular field.
- A professional doctorate focuses on practical professional skills and is typically pursued by those who want to develop advanced skills and knowledge that can be applied in the field in which they work.
One degree is not “better” or more advanced than the other—the difference lies in their focus (research versus application).
When deciding between a PhD vs. a doctorate, it’s important to understand that while both are doctoral degrees, the educational goals and typical career paths for each type of degree differ.
When it comes time to choose, it’s good to know that both PhD degrees and professional doctorates have their strengths. Your decision should be based on what you want to study and how you want to use your degree.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
For those seeking advanced qualifications, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) may be ideal. This program covers current business practices and theories.
Doctor of Education (EdD)
A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a practitioner-focused degree that offers various specializations. Earning an EdD also helps individuals become more effective leaders and learners in their areas of expertise.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is a doctoral degree available in various disciplines. UNVA offers PhD program in information technology, where students research to advance current knowledge or develop new theories.
Star Professors:
UNVA Catalog
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