College Catalog: 2013-2014

School of Theoretical and Applied Science (TAS): Integrated Science Studies (B.S.)

Four Year Plan

Website: School of Theoretical and Applied Science

About the Major

The Integrated Science Studies major is designed to meet a growing professional and cultural need for people whose knowledge of science is directed to its use, expression, and administration in both the private and public sectors.  Students in the major are expected not only to achieve specific competencies in the sciences but also critical understandings of the roles of the sciences in social, political, and economic contexts.

Emphasis in the major is placed on the breadth and depth of the foundational science curriculum.  Students are to acquire detailed but integrated knowledge of the sciences by engaged study in a range of courses, including laboratory courses—from chemistry, physics, and biology to geology, ecology, and environmental science—as well as in mathematics.  The foundational courses have been selected to establish a broad base for study without compelling a focus on a particular science too early, while allowing flexibility and opportunities to pursue more specific interests at the upper levels.

Upon the successful completion of 36 credits of required foundational science and mathematics courses, students can apply to be admitted to one of four (4) upper level concentrations of the major:  (1) Science Technology and Society, (2) Science Journalism, (3) Business Administration, and (4) Public Policy/Administration.

The upper level concentrations consist of curricula requiring a minimum of five courses.  Additional elective course options, including internships and independent study, are strongly recommended and can be planned in consultation with academic advisors.

Each concentration has a particular orientation which integrates scientific knowledge into other acquired competencies—in business, in technology management, in environmental regulation and public administration to science journalism and science education. The upper level curriculum is intended to respond to a variety of student interests and career objectives.  Students who complete the major will be competently prepared to pursue further academic work in graduate and professional schools in science, business, and other areas, as well as to begin careers in their chosen fields.

The School of Theoretical and Applied Science offers the major leading to a B.S. degree in Integrated Science Studies – (chosen concentration).

Requirements of the Major
  1. Transfer students who have 48 or more credits accepted at the time of transfer are waived from the courses marked with a (W) below.  Waivers only apply to General Education Requirements NOT School Core or Major Requirements.
  2. Double counting between General Education, School Core, and Major may be possible.  Check with your advisor to see if any apply.
  3. Writing Intensive Requirement (six courses):  three writing intensive courses in the general education curriculum are required: First Year Seminar, Critical Reading and Writing (formerly College English), and Readings in the Humanities; the other three courses are taken in the major.
INTEGRATED SCIENCE STUDIES MAJOR

Note: A 2.0 GPA in the major is required for graduation.