Major: Natural Sciences
At first, you might think that chemistry, physics, and the other physical sciences have little to do with the biological sciences, which focus on life and the environments where life exists. However, there are many connections between the two fields. For example, the building blocks of life are chemical in nature. And the physics that defines the nature of atoms and forces like electromagnetism also explains such forces as they apply to living things.
If you want to study a broad range of physical and biological sciences and fully grasp connections like these, then consider majoring in the natural sciences. Doing so will enable you to explore several scientific fields.
Students of the natural sciences study a combination of biological and physical sciences.
Did You Know?
- A bachelor’s degree in natural sciences is a good choice if you want to teach science or attend grad school in fields like medical technology, public health, and forensic science.
Are You Ready To...?
- Juggle lectures and labs
- Work with other students on complicated problems
- Do work out in the field if you’re taking a class like ecology
- Spend time on a computer, recording and interpreting data
- Complete internships and independent research
It Helps to Be...
Flexible, creative, and independent. Because this is an interdisciplinary major, you’ll be using your mind in many different ways. You’ll also be making connections between the branches of science.
College Checklist
- How much guidance will you have in pursuing this major? Are advisors available to help you?
- Are labs equipped with the latest?
- What is the ratio of teachers to students? Will you get the individual attention you need?
- What opportunities will you have for independent research or internships?
- Will you be able to work with professors on their research?
Did You Know?
- Physics and chemistry courses require a good deal of high-level math.
Course Spotlight
In microbiology, you’ll study single-cell organisms. You’ll look at eukaryotes, which have nuclei that enclose their DNA, as well as bacteria and other prokaryotes, which lack nuclei. You’ll also examine the parts that make up the cell, the colonies that some unicellular organisms form, and their interactions with other living things, such as humans.
