BS in Science Literacy

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Science Literacy provides a comprehensive introduction to the sciences, with a focus on chemistry. Graduates develop scientific literacy and are prepared for careers in fields such as public policy, journalism, law, business, and environmental science. The program includes core courses in astronomy, biology, earth science, physics, and philosophy, as well as restricted elective courses that allow students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The Bachelor of Science in Science Literacy is designed as a general introduction to the sciences with a focus on chemistry as the accompanying minor.
• Graduates will be scientifically literate and capable of contributing in a variety of areas that require some background in science, such as public policy, journalism, law, business, or environmental careers.
• This is a STEM-designated program (see OPT Extension).

Outline:

• Required Core Courses (32 hours):
• ASTR 205 Principles of Astronomy [GEKN] - 4 hrs
• BIO 110 Introductory Biology: Cells & Molecules [GEKN] - 3 hrs
• BIO 111 Introductory Biology Laboratory: Cells & Molecules [GEKN] - 2 hrs
• ESSC 110 The Dynamic Earth System [GEKN] - 4 hrs
• ESSC 212 Weather, Climate and the Earth System - 3 hrs
• MATH 105 College Algebra [GEQR] - 3 hrs
• MATH 107 Plane Trigonometry - 2 hrs
• PHIL 429W Topics in Environmental Philosophy [GEWI] - 3 hrs
• PHY 221 Mechanics, Sound and Heat [GEKN] - 4 hrs
• PHY 222 Electricity and Light - 4 hrs
• Restricted Elective Courses (6 hours):
• Select six hours from the following or other courses, with advisor approval
• ASTR 315 Observational Astronomy - 3 hrs
• ESSC 320 Oceanography - 3 hrs
• PSCI 305 Energy and Society - 3 hrs

Careers:

• Graduates may pursue careers in public policy, journalism, law, business, environmental careers, and other areas that require a background in science.