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.