 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
  |
  |
  |
  |
  |
 |
| |
|
GENERAL INFORMATION The
Division of Natural Sciences
prepares students for career opportunities in science and for graduate
and professional studies. The basic sciences also provide a contemporary
focus for a well-rounded liberal education for students who may not
seek scientific careers. Each program is designed to provide students
with the concepts and critical thinking abilities necessary to understand,
create, and communicate, as well as the requisite analytic skills
to work effectively in their chosen field of study. Natural Sciences
is also committed to providing interesting and useful courses for
non-scientists. Thus, students majoring in other programs have an
opportunity to experience the process and potential of modern science
and to relate it to their own fields of study. Major programs are
offered in biology, chemistry,
environmental science, mathematics/computer
science, and psychology. Studies in earth science and geology are
pursued in the context of environmental science. Premedical studies
are most conveniently undertaken as a biology or chemistry major,
but other options are possible. Interdisciplinary concentrations such
as environmental chemistry or psychobiology are also available within
the division. Computer facilities in the Natural Sciences Building
enable students to use computers in classes and laboratories and for
research. The Division of Natural Sciences offers the bachelor of arts degree in all of its disciplines and the bachelor of science degree in biology, chemistry and environmental science. All science programs require courses offered by other programs, and some science programs require specific courses in other divisions. Boards of study may set criteria, such as minimum grade point average and minimum grades in specified courses, as requirements for a degree. Most laboratory courses require some student expenditures for supplies. Science students pursue programs that are more sequentially structured than other liberal arts programs. Therefore, normal progress in a science program often depends on an early start in introductory courses and completion of the prerequisites for advanced courses. Still, many options are available to students within the structure of most of the disciplines, and programs can often be tailored to the individual student's interests and needs. Any student considering a program in the sciences should consult an advisor in the program as soon as possible. Advanced students are encouraged to gain practical laboratory and field experience through supervised individual projects and active participation in ongoing faculty research investigations. In most disciplines, a junior seminar helps prepare students for creative inquiry in their major fields. A significant independent project in the senior year will lead to a senior thesis or senior project, one of the major features of a Purchase education.
In the spring, the division conducts a Student
Symposium,
at which selected seniors in all disciplines make formal presentations
of their senior projects. Opportunities for summer research, apprenticeships,
or specialized studies may be arranged both at Purchase and at cooperating
institutions and industrial sites. These experiences often provide
valuable perspectives that enhance the student's formal education.
A large proportion of our graduates have entered graduate schools,
medical and other professional schools, or are employed in industry
and other private sector concerns, government service, public interest
organizations, and scientific research establishments. The Purchase
Environmental Awareness Society, the Biology Club, the Chemical
Society, and the Mathematics Club are student organizations that
sponsor campus projects, including visiting lectures, field trips,
and social events, and assist in preparations for the Natural Sciences
Lecture Series and the Natural
Sciences Student
Symposium. ADMISSIONS: Visit the Admissions Web site for more information on Purchase College Admissions procedures. VISITING: If you have not been to Purchase before, go to this map of the campus and click to get the full map. The Natural Sciences Building is building 20 on the map, and you can park near the Performing Arts Center (building 13). Click here for directions to the campus. CONTACT US: You can phone the School of Natural and Social Sciences at (914) 251-6601 or email us at sciences@purchase.edu. WEBMASTER: Problems and comments concerning the Natural Sciences Division Web pages should be directed to christina.williams.
|
