Science, B.S. (Science)

Program Code: SCBS_BS

Program Description

The Science major is an interdisciplinary degree that aims to provide a broad, general education in science. The bachelor of science (B.S.) curriculum is designed specifically for students who have education goals relating to scientific theory and practice and who require a high degree of flexibility to obtain their educational objectives. After completing foundation courses in calculus, chemistry, physics, and the life sciences, students will select additional science courses from designated areas. A large number of supporting credits permit students to readily include significant breadth or specialization into their undergraduate curriculum. Some examples include minors in business, computer and information science, education, kinesiology, or other fields. The degree allows students throughout the Commonwealth to become familiar with both the theory and the practice of science. It can help prepare students for various careers in pharmaceutical, biotechnical, chemical, medical, and agricultural industries. The degree can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of professional programs such as medical, dental, or pharmacy schools.

The Science major is an interdisciplinary degree that aims to provide a broad, general education in science. The bachelor of science (B.S.) curriculum is designed specifically for students who have education goals relating to scientific theory and practice and who require a high degree of flexibility to obtain their educational objectives. After completing foundation courses in calculus, chemistry, physics, and the life sciences, students will select additional science courses from designated areas. A large number of supporting credits permit students to readily include significant breadth or specialization into their undergraduate curriculum. Some examples include minors in business, computer and information science, education, kinesiology, or other fields. The degree allows students throughout the Commonwealth to become familiar with both the theory and the practice of science. It can help prepare students for various careers in pharmaceutical, biotechnical, chemical, medical, and agricultural industries. The degree can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of professional programs such as medical, dental, or pharmacy schools.

General Science Option

Available at the following campuses: Abington, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, University Park, York

The General Science option of the B.S. Science degree allows for the most flexibility.

Achievement in a more specialized set of goals can be met by selecting one of the other B.S. options offered:

Biological Sciences and Health Professions Option

Available at the following campuses: University Park

Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option

Available at the following campuses: University Park

Life Sciences Option

Available at the following campuses: Abington, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, York

Mathematical Sciences Option

Available at the following campuses: Abington

Physical Sciences Option

Available at the following campuses:

Not all of these options are available at all locations, and there are minor distinctions of the core curriculum at some locations, so see the Science program director at your College for further details.

Two-Year Preprofessional Preparation

The first two years of the Science major (62 credits) can meet the pre professional needs of those interested in admission to some schools of pharmacy, physical therapy, optometry, nursing, and physician assistant training. Successful students can then transfer after two years of undergraduate study to the professional school to which they are admitted. Note, however, that no Penn State degree can be awarded after only two years (62 credits) of study in the Science major. Also, note that the abbreviated two-year curriculum alone does not prepare students for admission to professional schools of general medicine, veterinary medicine, or dental medicine. Consult with your college's health sciences professional adviser for additional information.

What is Science?

The Science major provides a broad and interdisciplinary foundation in the natural sciences. The Science BS program uses the principles of chemistry, physics, and life sciences to understand how these integrate over general areas including biological sciences and health professions, public policy, and science research and development.

You Might Like This Program If...

  • You like learning by doing hands-on experiments.
  • You are curious about the natural world and how science disciplines come together to explore and understand it.
  • You are intrigued by science and desire a career in current and emerging interdisciplinary science disciplines, health professions, or melding science with law, policy or business.

Entrance to Major

In order to be eligible for entrance to the Science major, a student at any location must have:

  1. attained at least a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average;
  2. completed MATH 140 with a grade of C or better;
  3. completed at least two of the following courses, BIOL 110; CHEM 110; PHYS 211 or PHYS 250, with a grade of C or better.

Degree Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science degree in Science, a minimum of 124 credits is required, with at least 15 credits at the 400 level:

Requirement Credits
General Education 45
Requirements for the Major 94

15 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: 9 credits of GN courses; 6 credits of GQ courses.

Requirements for the Major

To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.

Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)

Prescribed Courses
CHEM 111Experimental Chemistry I Keystone/General Education Course1
CHEM 112Chemical Principles II Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 113Experimental Chemistry II Keystone/General Education Course1
MATH 141Calculus with Analytic Geometry II Keystone/General Education Course4
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
BIOL 110Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity Keystone/General Education Course4
CHEM 110Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course3
MATH 140Calculus With Analytic Geometry I Keystone/General Education Course4
Requirements for the Option
Select an option74

Requirements for the Option

General Science Option (74 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Abington, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, University Park, York

Additional Courses
Select 4 credits of the following:4
Mammalian Anatomy
Introduction to Human Physiology Keystone/General Education Course
and Physiology Laboratory
Biology: Populations and Communities
Biology: Molecules and Cells
Biology: Function and Development of Organisms
Select 3-4 credits of the following:3-4
Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course
STAT 301
Experimental Methods
Select 8-12 credits of the following:8-12
General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course 1
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
and Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course 1
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation.
Select 21-26 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC)21-26
Select 3 credits from earth and mineral sciences3
Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness from department approved course list in consultation with adviser3
Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication from department approved course list in consultation with adviser3
Select 6 credits of 400-level courses6
Supporting and Related Courses: Require a grade of C or better
Select 18 credits in life, mathematical, or physical sciences, with at least 9 credits at the 400 level 2,318
1

PHYS 211 and PHYS 250 require a grade of C or better.

2

Only the 9 credits at the 400 level require a grade of C or better.

3

Physical sciences include ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS; mathematical sciences include CMPSC, MATH, STAT; life sciences include BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB.

Biological Sciences and Health Professions Option (74 credits)

Available at the following campuses: University Park

Prescribed Courses
HPA 101Introduction to Health Services Organization3
Additional Courses
Select 4 credits of the following:4
Mammalian Anatomy
Biology: Populations and Communities
Biology: Molecules and Cells
Biology: Function and Development of Organisms
Introduction to Human Physiology Keystone/General Education Course
and Physiology Laboratory
Select 3-4 credits of the following:3-4
Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course
STAT 301
Experimental Methods
Select 6-8 credits of the following:6-8
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I
and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry II
and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Genetics
Genetic Analysis
Elementary Biochemistry
Molecular and Cell Biology I
Introductory Microbiology
Select 8-12 credits of the following:8-12
General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course 2
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
and Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course 2
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation.
Select 15 credits from program list for Healthcare/ Medicine/Ethical Competencies 115
Select 10-17 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC)10-17
Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness from department approved course list in consultation with adviser3
Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication from department approved course list in consultation with adviser 3
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 9 credits of 400-level BMB, BIOL, BIOTC, or MICRB courses9
1

Six credits must be at the 400-level. Select from department approved course list in consultation with adviser.

2

PHYS 211 and PHYS 250 require a grade of C or better.

Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option (74 credits)

Available at the following campuses: University Park

Additional Courses
Select 4 credits of the following:4
Mammalian Anatomy
Introduction to Human Physiology Keystone/General Education Course
and Physiology Laboratory
Biology: Populations and Communities
Biology: Molecules and Cells
Biology: Function and Development of Organisms
Select 3-4 credits of the following:3-4
Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course
STAT 301
Experimental Methods
Select 8-12 credits of the following:8-12
General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course 1
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
and Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course 1
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 12-17 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC)12-17
Select 18 credits from program list for Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy 218
Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness from department approved course list in consultation with adviser3
Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication from department approved course list in consultation with adviser3
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 18 credits in life, mathematical, or physical sciences, with at least 9 credits at the 400 level 3,418
1

PHYS 211 and PHYS 250 require a grade of C or better.

2

Six credits must be at the 400-level. Select from department approved course list in consultation with adviser.

3

Only the 9 credits at the 400 level require a grade of C or better.

4

Physical sciences include ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS; mathematical sciences include CMPSC, MATH, STAT; life sciences include BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB.

Life Science Option (74 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Abington, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, York

Additional Courses
Select 4 credits of the following:4
Biology: Populations and Communities
Biology: Molecules and Cells
Biology: Function and Development of Organisms
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Introduction to Programming Keystone/General Education Course
Ordinary Differential Equations
Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Elementary Biochemistry
Molecular and Cell Biology I
Introductory Microbiology
Select 6-8 credits of the following:6-8
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I
and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry II
and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry
Select 8-12 credits of the following:8-12
General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course 1
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
and Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course 1
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study 296, 496 may be applied toward credits for graduation.
Select 23-29 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC)23-29
Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness3
Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication3
Select 6 credits of 400-level courses6
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 9 credits of 400-level BMB, BIOL, BIOTC, or MICRB courses9
1

PHYS 211 and PHYS 250 require a grade of C or better.

Mathematical Science Option (74 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Abington

Prescribed Courses
CMPSC 122Intermediate Programming3
MATH 220Matrices Keystone/General Education Course2-3
Additional Courses
CMPSC 360Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science3-4
or MATH 311W Concepts of Discrete Mathematics
MATH 230Calculus and Vector Analysis4
or MATH 251 Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations
STAT 3013
or STAT 318 Elementary Probability
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Elementary Biochemistry
Molecular and Cell Biology I
Introductory Microbiology
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Introduction to Programming Techniques
Programming for Engineers with C++ Keystone/General Education Course
CMPSC 202
Select 8-12 credits of the following:8-12
General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course
and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course 1
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
and Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course 1
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation.
Select 18-24 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC)18-24
Select 6 credits of 400-level courses6
Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness3
Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication3
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 9 credits of 400-level CMPSC, CSE, MATH, or STAT courses9
1

PHYS 211 and PHYS 250 require a grade of C or better.

Physical Science Option (74 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Currently not available at any campus location

Prescribed Courses
ASTRO 291Astronomical Methods and the Solar System Keystone/General Education Course3
PHYS 212General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism Keystone/General Education Course4
PHYS 213General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics Keystone/General Education Course2
PHYS 214General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics Keystone/General Education Course2
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
PHYS 211General Physics: Mechanics Keystone/General Education Course4
Additional Courses
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Elementary Biochemistry
Molecular and Cell Biology I
Introductory Microbiology
Select 6-8 credits of the following:6-8
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I
and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry II
and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry
MATH 230Calculus and Vector Analysis4
or MATH 251 Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Astronomy of the Distant Universe
Statics
Engineering Thermodynamics I
Introduction to Modern Physics
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation.
Select 20-22 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC)20-22
Select 6 credits of 400-level courses6
Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness3
Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication3
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 9 credits of 400-level ASTRO, CHEM, or PHYS courses9

General Education

Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.

The keystone symbol Keystone/General Education Course appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.

Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
  • Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits

Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Arts (GA): 3 credits
  • Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
  • Humanities (GH): 3 credits
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
  • Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits

Integrative Studies

  • Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits

Exploration

  • GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
  • GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits

University Degree Requirements

First Year Engagement

All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.

Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.

First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.

Cultures Requirement

6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements

  • United States Cultures: 3 credits
  • International Cultures: 3 credits

Writing Across the Curriculum

3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.

Total Minimum Credits

A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.

Quality of Work

Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.

Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition

The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.

Program Learning Objectives

  • Knowledge Application: Graduates will be able to apply scientific concepts across disciplines.
  • Scientific Process: Graduates will be able to perform the process of science.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Graduates will be able to interpret scientific data using quantitative reasoning skills.
  • Communication: Graduates will be able to explain scientific concepts through written and verbal communication.
  • Ethical Reasoning: Graduates will be able to apply ethical reasoning to scientific problems.

Academic Advising

The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.

Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.

READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY

University Park

Beth Johnson
Director, Science Major
225B Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3889
bai107@psu.edu

Abington

Les Murray
Program Chair
1600 Woodland Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-881-7940
ldm12@psu.edu

Berks

Ike Shibley
Program Coordinator, Associate Professor
L101G
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6185
BKScience@psu.edu

Harrisburg

Sairam V. Rudrabhatla, Ph.D.
Program Chair
Science and Technology Building, TL 174
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-6560
svr11@psu.edu

Scranton

Agnes Kim
Associate Professor
120 Ridge View Drive
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2549
axk55@psu.edu

York

Anne Vardo-Zalik
Associate Professor of Biology
1 Elias Science Building
York, PA 17403
717-718-6705
amv12@psu.edu

Suggested Academic Plan

The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2023-24 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contains suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).

General Option: Science, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4BIOL 230W (Consult with an adviser for alternative options)4
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 1123
CHEM 1111CHEM 1131
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153MATH 141‡†4
MATH 140 or 140B*‡#†4General Education Course3
PSU 161 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3PHYS 251 or 2124
PHYS 250 or 211*#4Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course * 3
PHYS 213 (or Supporting Course)2Earth and Mineral Sciene Course (from Department List)3
PHYS 214 (or Supporting Course)2General Education Course3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3General Education Course3
STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3 
 16 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course * 3
400-level Supporting Course3400-level Supporting Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

# Course required with a C or better to enter the Science major are: MATH 140; and two out of the three of BIOL 110, CHEM 110, and either PHYS 250 or PHYS 211

Course can be taken from the following Departments for  Mathematical, or Physical Science Course:  LIFE (BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB); Mathematical (CMPSC, MATH, STAT); and Physical (ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS).

General Option (ALEKS Placement in MATH 22): Science, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 1104BIOL 230W or 240W4
GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3STAT 2004
ENGL 153MATH 263
MATH 223GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3
PSU 161 
 14 14
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 110
CHEM 111
4CHEM 112
CHEM 113
4
MATH 1404MATH 1414
PHYS 2504PHYS 2514
CAS 1003GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3
GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (Department List)3
 18 18
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 2023College of Earth and Mineral Science Course3
Life, Math, or Physical Science Course3GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3
Global, Social, Personal Awareness Course (Department List)3Supporting Course3
Supporting Course3Life, Math, or Physical Science Course3
Supporting Course3Life, Math, or Physical Science Course3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-Level Life, Math, or Physical Science3400-Level Life, Math, or Physical Science3
400-Level Supporting Course3400-Level Life, Math, or Physical Science3
GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3400-Level Supporting Course3
Supporting Course3GA/GH/GS/GHA/GHW3
Supporting Course3Supporting Course3
 15 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

General Option: Science, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4CHEM 1123
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 1131
CHEM 1111MATH 141‡†4
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153PHYS 250 or 211*#4
MATH 140 or 140B*‡#†4General Education Course3
PSU 161 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4PHYS 213 (or supporting course)2
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3PHYS 214 (or supporting course)2
PHYS 251 or 2124Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3
 Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15.5 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course (consult with an academic adviser for options)^3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3Earth and Mineral Science Course (from Department List)3
STAT 250 (consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)3General Education Course3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
General Education Course3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 16.5
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course*3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course*3
400-level Supporting Course3400-level Supporting Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Course required with a C or better to enter the Science major are: MATH 140; and two out of the three of BIOL 110, CHEM 110, and either PHYS 250 or PHYS 211

Course can be taken from the following Departments for  Mathematical, or Physical Science Course:  LIFE (BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB); Mathematical (CMPSC, MATH, STAT); and Physical (ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS).

Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option: Science, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 1123
CHEM 1111CHEM 1131
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153MATH 141 or 141B‡†4
MATH 140*‡#†4General Education Course3
PSU 161 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3PHYS 251 or 2124
PHYS 250 or 211*#4Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course^3
Lfie, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* ^3
PHYS 213 (or supporting course)2Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
PHYS 214 (or supporting course)2Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3General Education Course3
STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3 
 16 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3
400-level Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3400-level Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Course required with a C or better to enter the Science major are: MATH 140; and two out of the three of BIOL 110, CHEM 110, and either PHYS 250 or PHYS 211

Course can be taken from the following Departments for  Mathematical, or Physical Science Course:  LIFE (BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB); Mathematical (CMPSC, MATH, STAT); and Physical (ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS).

Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option (ALEKS Placement in MATH 22): Science, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3
General Education Course3CHEM 110*#†3
MATH 223CHEM 1111
PSU 161MATH 263
 14 14
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 1123General Education Course3
CHEM 1131Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course^3
General Education Course3Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
Lfie, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3MATH 141B or 141‡†4
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
MATH 140B or 140*‡#†4 
 17 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course*3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
PHYS 250 or 211*#4General Education Course3
STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3PHYS 251 or 2124
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3
400-level Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3400-level Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
PHYS 213 (or Supporting Course)2Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
PHYS 214 (or Supporting Course)2 
 16 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option: Science, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4CHEM 1123
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 1131
CHEM 1111MATH 141‡†4
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153PHYS 250 or 211*#4
MATH 140*‡#†4General Education Course3
PSU 161 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4PHYS 213 (or Suporting Course)2
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3PHYS 214 (or Supporting Course)2
PHYS 251 or 2124Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Depatment List)3
 General Education Course3
 15.5 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3
Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course3Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 Supporting Course3
 15 16.5
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3400-level Life, Mathematical, or Physical Science Course* 3
400-level Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3400-level Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Course (from Department List)3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Course required with a C or better to enter the Science major are: MATH 140; and two out of the three of BIOL 110, CHEM 110, and either PHYS 250 or PHYS 211

Course can be taken from the following Departments for  Mathematical, or Physical Science Course:  LIFE (BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB); Mathematical (CMPSC, MATH, STAT); and Physical (ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS).

Biological Science and Health Professions Option: Science, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 1123
CHEM 1111CHEM 1131
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153MATH 141B or 141‡†4
MATH 140B or 140*‡#†4General Education Course3
PSU 161 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 210 or 2023CHEM 212 or 2033
HPA 1013PHYS 250 or 211*#4
MICRB 201 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 15 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 213W (or Supporting Course)2ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
PHYS 251 or 2124PHYS 213 (or Supporting Course)2
Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3PHYS 214 (or Supporting Course)2
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB * 3
General Education Course3Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
 General Education Course3
 15 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB*3
400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB*3400-level Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
400-level Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)1 
 16 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Courses required with a C or better to enter the Science major are: MATH 140; and two out of the three of BIOL 110, CHEM 110, and either PHYS 250 or PHYS 211.

Students intending to enter a health professional school should consult with an academic adviser on which organic chemistry sequence is appropriate.

Biological Science and Health Professions Option (ALEKS Placement in MATH 22): Science, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3
General Education Course3CHEM 110*#†3
MATH 223CHEM 1111
PSU 161MATH 263
 14 14
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 1123CHEM 1131
General Education Course3General Education Course3
HPA 1013Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
MICRB 201 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3MATH 141B or 141‡†4
MATH 140B or 140*‡#†4STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3
 Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3
 16 17
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 210 or 2023400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB * 3
ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3CHEM 212 or 2033
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
PHYS 250 or 211*#4PHYS 251 or 2124
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB*3400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB*3
400-level Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3400-level Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
CHEM 213W (or Supporting Course)2General Education Course3
General Education Course3PHYS 214 (or SUpporting Course)2
Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
PHYS 213 (or Supporting Course)2Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)1
 16 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Students intending to enter a health professional school should consult with an academic adviser on which organic chemistry sequence is appropriate.

Biological Science and Health Professions Option: Science, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 110*#†4CHEM 1123
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 1131
CHEM 1111MATH 141B or 141‡†4
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153PHYS 250 or 211*#4
MATH 140B or 140*‡#†4General Education Course3
PSU 161 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 230W (consult with an adviser for alternative options)4CHEM 212 or 2023
CHEM 210 or 2023CHEM 213W (or supporting course)2
HPA 1013PHYS 213 (or supporting course)2
PHYS 251 or 2124PHYS 214 (or supporting course)2
General Education Course3Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
 General Education Course3
 17 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
MICRB 201 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
STAT 250 (consult with an adviser for alternative options)3400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB*3
Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencie Course (from Department List)3Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C3400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB or MICRB* 3
400-level Life Science: BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, or MICRB*3400-level Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competencies Course (from Department List)3
400-level Healthcare/Medicine/Ethical Competenies Course (from Department List)3General Education Course3
Global, Social, and Personal Awareness Course (from Department List)3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
General Education Course3Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)3
Supporting course (consult with an academic adviser for options)1 
 16 15
Total Credits 124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Courses required with a C or better to enter the Science major are: MATH 140; and two out of the three of BIOL 110, CHEM 110, and either PHYS 250 or PHYS 211.

Students intending to enter a health professional school should consult with an academic adviser on which organic chemistry sequence is appropriate.

Career Paths

Penn State students with a BS in Science are prepared for a broad range of careers and graduate programs. The solid foundation of science and math prepares students to think critically and scientifically in a range of industries and professions.

Careers

This program often leads to careers in all healthcare professions, including physicians and physician assistants, dentists, optometrists, and podiatrists; laboratory research associates; scientific product representatives and science-based consulting.

Opportunities for Graduate Studies

Many graduates of the Science B.S. program choose to pursue graduate studies (MS and PhD) in the natural sciences. Most often, students gravitate to medically-related fields and life science sub-disciplines for focused graduate training. Students in the legal studies and public policy options may choose law school or master's in public policy programs.

Professional Resources

Contact

University Park

SCIENCE MAJOR PROGRAM OFFICE
225B Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3889
bai107@psu.edu

https://science.psu.edu/interdisciplinary-programs/science-major

Berks

DIVISION OF SCIENCE
Luerssen Science Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6185
BKScience@psu.edu

https://berks.psu.edu/academics/bs-science

Abington

DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
1600 Woodland Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-881-7940
ldm12@psu.edu

https://www.abington.psu.edu/academics/majors-at-abington/science

Harrisburg

SCHOOL OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
Science & Tech Building, TL 177
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-4387
mrr53@psu.edu

https://harrisburg.psu.edu/science-engineering-technology/science-bs

Scranton

120 Ridge View Drive
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2549
axk55@psu.edu

https://scranton.psu.edu/academics/degrees/bachelors/science

York

1 Elias Science Building
York, PA 17403
717-718-6705
amv12@psu.edu

https://www.york.psu.edu/academics/baccalaureate/science