THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL SCIENCES

The department of Natural Sciences offers challenging curricula in biology that leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. Also, in cooperation with the Department of Education, the Department of Natural Sciences offers a major in General Science Education which certifies graduates to teach science in secondary schools.  All programs in the department provide classes and support activities that prepare students for standardized tests required for successful program completion and entry into graduate and professional schools. Classes are also offered in the Department for non-majors to complete general physical and life science requirements.

Graduates with a degree in biology are prepared for positions in industrial, academic, or government laboratories; or for entry into graduate or professional schools to train for careers in academics, medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, public health, veterinary medicine, or other allied health professions.  Additional areas graduates may choose to pursue as careers include, civil and mechanical engineering, meteorology, epidemiology, and health administration.

The department maintains programs that support a “culture of achievement” and is devoted to promoting the academic success of major students. The primary goals of the Department are to:

1.     Assist students in reaching their full potential for academic success by emphasizing scientific reasoning, critical inquiry, problem solving and research skills.

2.     Promote the acquisition of knowledge, skills and experiences that will promote an understanding of the physical and biological worlds.

3.     Provide academic preparation in the sciences that will promote the development of good oral and written skills in major students.

4.     Provide academic preparation in the sciences that will promote the success of students on standardized tests that are necessary for program completion and entry into graduate and professional schools.

5.     Promote the participation of students in experiential experiences that will assist them in applying scientific principles and in making career choices.

6.     Promote life-long learning attitudes through the acquisition of knowledge, skills and experiences based on an understanding of the changing nature of science as new discoveries are made.

7.     Promote academic preparation in the sciences that will help students understand the impact of science on the environment and society.