- Aboard Gannon’s 48-foot research vessel, the Environaut,
science students are able to take several courses or undertake research
projects that will allow them to receive hands-on training on Lake
Erie.
- The Zurn Science Center, where many science classes and labs are
held, was recently renovated. This multi-million dollar project allowed
for the purchase of technical equipment used by scientists in a number
of different science disciplines. Students learn to use and apply this
equipment within courses or through faculty-mentored research projects.
- Science students have an opportunity to take courses or receive
training in our human cadaver lab, the region’s largest Patient
Simulation Center, and/or the newly constructed Human Performance
Laboratory.
You Will Learn
This program is a perfect fit for those students who enjoy science, but
who are not yet certain of the career path they wish to pursue. By
providing a broad background in biology, chemistry, environmental
science, mathematics, and physics, students are afforded a high degree
of flexibility in the types of courses they choose to complete the 60
credits of required science coursework. As a result, students are able
to design their degree path in a way that best fits their interests and
in a manner that prepares them for successful placement in a number of
different career options. Whatever the specific career path chosen, this
program will prepare the student to be a critical thinker, problem
solver and a highly valued asset for potential employers.
You Will Experience
The Student Success Center at Gannon provides constant updates to
students on internship or experiential learning opportunities for
students interested in the science program. Such examples include
participation in the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)
program of the National Science Foundation or fieldwork placement at
Presque Isle State Park through the Regional Science Consortium.
Additionally, students may choose to gain direct research experience
with one of our many productive faculty who publish and present their
work with students on a regular basis. For those students who are
considering applying their science education to a health field, Gannon
offers opportunities to participate in a health coach program with Saint
Vincent Hospital. These opportunities allow the student to gain the
real-world work experience they will need to secure a job following
graduation.
You Will Achieve
Depending on the types of courses the student chooses to complete
their degree, this program prepares students for a variety of career
options upon graduation. Such career opportunities include, but are not
limited to, the following:
- education fields
- entry into health professional school (medical school, dental school, pharmacy school, etc.)
- entry-level placement in environmental agencies
- graduate school
- science laboratory technician
- science sales
You Will Earn
Salaries vary depending on the location and type of organization.
Biology
- Starting salary: $40,200
- Mid-career salary: $70,800
Chemistry
- Starting salary: $44,100
- Mid-year salary: $84,100
Education
- Starting salary: $37,400
- Mid-career salary: $55,200
All salary information is compiled from data gathered from the
Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) and/or PayScale
(payscale.com).
You Will Study
Students will take a series of courses in our liberal arts core
curriculum, which when combined with their science courses, will give
them the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and apply them
in topics ranging from history to theology to philosophy. Additionally, a
leadership seminar and capstone experience will allow students to sum
up their collective undergraduate experience in a way that is
personalized to their experience. Along the way, students are able to
choose elective courses to complete their required and general elective
credits and may include unique courses such as:
BIOL 383: Tropical Marine Biology
This course is open to all students regardless of major and fulfills the Liberal Studies Core Science requirement. The course is offered over spring break in the Bahamas, where students investigate ecological systems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, beaches, tidal pools and inland habitats.
ENV 400: Environmental Toxicology
This course focuses upon the properties, effects and detection of chemical substances in the environment and within exposed species and how that information is used to protect human health. Topics to be covered include: dose-response relationships, toxicokinetics, biotransformation and elimination of toxicants, target organ toxicity, carcinogenesis, risk assessment and the standard-setting process.
Liberal Studies Core
The Liberal Studies Core Curriculum is one reflection of Gannon University's commitment to
its Catholic identity. The Core's design offers students a defined, integrated, shared
experience as the foundation for their undergraduate program.