Columbia Southern expands public safety offerings with new programs

GCM Staff Report
Posted 9/24/25

Columbia Southern University has added seven new academic programs, including a master’s degree, two certificates and three concentrations, expanding its focus on public safety and specialized …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Subscribe to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in

Local reporters keeping you informed across the Alabama Gulf Coast.

You can cancel anytime.
 

Please log in to continue

Log in

Columbia Southern expands public safety offerings with new programs

Posted

Columbia Southern University has added seven new academic programs, including a master’s degree, two certificates and three concentrations, expanding its focus on public safety and specialized industries.

Among the new programs are the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management with a concentration in environmental engineering, the Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration with a concentration in wildland fire, and the Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security with a concentration in maritime safety according to a news release. CSU also introduced the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health with a maritime safety concentration, a Certificate in Environmental Engineering, a Certificate in Maritime Safety, and a Master of Science in Mental Health and Wellness.

Per the release, the maritime safety concentration is one of the only fully online programs dedicated to the maritime industry. Travis Smith, Ph.D., academic program director for CSU’s occupational safety and health undergraduate programs, said the concentration prepares students to oversee safety in ports, terminals and inland waterways.

“The maritime safety concentration equips students to manage safety in ports, terminals and inland waterways by addressing cargo handling, vessel docking and shore-side operations,” Smith said in the release. “With an emphasis on OSHA standards, emergency preparedness and operational risk control, this program prepares future professionals to safeguard workers and facilities …”

In addition to the new programs, the university renamed the College of Military Studies and Leadership to the College of Space, Intelligence and Military Operations to align with future offerings.

This marks the third wave of new programs released by CSU in 2025, bringing the year’s total to 19 new degrees, concentrations and certificates.

More information is available at www.ColumbiaSouthern.edu.