Inquiry into the nature of physical phenomena is among the most persistent of human concerns. During the past century, both the scope and pace of such inquiry have broadened and accelerated, and its influence on our civilization has become pervasive. The discoveries and consequences of scientific inquiry have profoundly affected the human race—both in daily life and in practically all domains of intellectual life. The School of Natural Sciences believes that an understanding of the sciences is an indispensable part of a sound education. Coursework in the School provides students with instruction that addresses fundamental issues in the broad range of scientific inquiry. The School seeks to instill in students an appreciation of critical thinking as well as knowledge of specific subjects. Students who decide to major in one of the disciplines of the School undertake specialized study and research in their selected fields.
The School offers majors in Biology and Chemistry. The major in Biology leads to a Bachelor of Science degree and includes four options: General Biology, Biotechnology, Pre-Professional, and Specialization in Biology Education. The major in chemistry leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. Minors are offered in Biology and Chemistry.
A specialization in Biology Education prepares students for teacher certification in grades 8-12. The Education Preparation Program in Biology has specific admissions requirements and coursework, including a semester of full-time teaching by the student. Details for this degree program are provided in the School of Education and Human Development section of this Catalog under the College of Public Service and Leadership Studies. Students in this program should maintain close contact with their Biology advisor in the School as well as the faculty in the School of Education.
The School of Natural Sciences offers programs related to the health professions. Students interested in medicine, optometry, physical therapy, pharmacy, or other allied health fields should consult the chairperson of the School of Natural Sciences or the Pre-health professions advisors. The following section of this Catalog describes allied health career requirements and provides other information relevant to these fields.
NOTE: Students must complete all prerequisite courses in the School of Natural Sciences with a grade of “C” or better before they may attempt the next course in a course sequence.
Many health careers require graduate degrees earned after completing a baccalaureate degree. The School offers coursework that prepares students for admission to graduate programs in several allied health fields. Requirements for some health-related graduate programs are described below:
There are allopathic and osteopathic medical schools, and students should appreciate both tracks. To enter one of these schools, students must complete at least one year of biology with laboratory, one year of general chemistry with laboratory, one year of organic chemistry with laboratory, one year of physics with laboratory, one year of college mathematics or one semester of calculus, one year of English, and other courses that will help assure success, such as those in advanced communication skills, logic, or computer science, and psychology. In addition, pre-medicine students are advised to take Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Statistics, Psychology, and Sociology. Content from these additional courses appears on the entry exam for medical school (MCAT – Medical College Admission Test).