Program Director

LEONARD R. BRAND, PhD

Faculty
                Leonard R. Brand
                Doug Britton
                H. Paul Buchheim
                Ronald L. Carter
                Stephen G. Dunbar
                Raul Esperante
                William K. Hayes
                Ronald Nalin
                Kevin E. Nick
                Samuel Soret
                Benjamin L. Clausen

The Natural Sciences Program leads to the Master of Science degree. Coursework is selected from the allied fields of biology, paleontology, geology, earth systems science, and geographic information systems. Areas of curriculum strength include ecology, genetics, systematics, sedimentary geology, paleontology, environmental geology, earth systems science, and GIS.

Program objectives

The Natural Sciences Program emphasizes ecology-oriented areas of biology and field-oriented geology, particularly sedimentology, stratigraphy, and paleontology. Fieldwork is emphasized because it provides a first-hand experience with biological and geological phenomena that cannot be satisfactorily grasped or understood solely from classroom or laboratory study. Throughout the natural sciences curriculum, students are encouraged to develop an open-minded and investigative approach in the application of the scientific method to the resolution of biological and geologic problems. Consideration of multiple working hypotheses is encouraged. The goal is to prepare students for effective careers in teaching or government.

• Develop breadth of knowledge in natural sciences.
• Develop written and oral communication skills, and the integration of technology in communication.
• Develop a professional attitude.