Natural Science
Do you have a passion for nature? If so, this major is made for you. You鈥檒l explore a range of scientific disciplines and the connections between them, gain a deep understanding of the natural world, and prepare for a rewarding professional life.
This is science without boundaries
In small classes, you鈥檒l work side-by-side with scientists whose top priority is quality teaching. Through a wide-ranging curriculum that embraces biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology and physics, you鈥檒l gain a big-picture perspective on science and the world. You鈥檒l find a comfortable new home in Parmer Hall, the campus鈥檚 newest building, with 16 laboratories and state-of-the-art scientific equipment. This major is excellent preparation for a variety of fields, including medical technology, public health, forensic science, and education at all levels. You can focus your studies directly on your professional goals by completing an academic concentration. As part of each concentration, you鈥檒l expand your experience by completing research, an internship or independent study in the field. Dominican offers concentrations in two high-demand areas:
- Health Sciences: Includes coursework that prepares students for multiple programs in allied health careers.
- Environmental Studies: This interdisciplinary option examines how human beings interact with the environment, and includes a consideration of public policy.
Amazing opportunities鈥攐n campus and beyond
Practical experience is built into the curriculum. Our internships draw on Chicago鈥檚 world-class research, cultural and medical resources. We make our connections your connections, so you can test-drive your dream job in the real world. With full faculty support and mentorship, you can conduct your own scientific research as early as freshman year, on campus or at research centers around the Chicago area. You may even qualify for a university research grant. You can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, or immerse yourself in a society and different culture through our outstanding study abroad program. You鈥檒l have your choice of programs on four continents.
International Students
For international students (F-1), this program is a STEM-designated program, which can qualify you to extend your post-graduation stay in the United States.
Dr. Patrick Hughes
海角社区 Graduate
鈥淭he solid foundation in science that I have today first started in my experience at Dominican when I was a student in the school鈥檚 robust science program. Like many who attend Dominican, I learned to appreciate that the faculty were so willing to help us. The doors were always open for each of my professors."
Discover something new
Undergraduate research is a Dominican trademark. You won鈥檛 have to wait until graduate school to work side-by-side with a talented faculty scholar. Our annual research expo in April will give you a chance to practice your presentation skills and show your stuff. Topics of recent student projects include behavior genetics, bacterial genetics and neurobiology of learning and memory. Natural science majors who wish to teach elementary or high school students can combine their major with the Secondary and K-12 Education program. Offered by our excellent School of Education, the program includes a semester of student teaching.
Prepare for an intellectually compelling career
A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of bosses say that 鈥渁 job candidate鈥檚 demonstrated capacity to think critically, solve complex problems and communicate effectively鈥 is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is the essential skill set of our natural science graduates. This major is ideal for students who are flexible and curious鈥攚ho like to use their minds in different ways. The curriculum prepares you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. In the workplace, our natural science graduates know what they鈥檙e doing. They鈥檙e informed, thoughtful, open to new ideas, proficient with laboratory procedures and technologies, and able to adapt and thrive. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice
Dr. Leticia Perez
海角社区 Graduate
鈥淎t Dominican, everyone really made me feel welcome and at home. I liked the small size because I knew I was going to have more connections with my professors and more one-on-one attention."