Science at Plymouth State University
Science at Plymouth State University The College of Arts and Sciences upholds the rich values of the Liberal Arts tradition by providing breadth and depth of education crossing the humanities, social sciences, fine arts, mathematics, and sciences. The College endeavors to cultivate critical and creative inquiry, sensitivity and understanding of cultural, social, and historical pluralism and context, independence of thought and reasoning, service and social agency, and to foster an abiding appreciation for aesthetic and epistemological diversity.



The College of Arts and Sciences is comprised of the Departments of Art; Atmospheric Science and Chemistry; Biological Sciences; Communication and Media Studies; Computer Science; English; Environmental Science and Policy; History and Philosophy; Languages and Linguistics; Mathematics; Music, Theatre, and Dance; Psychology; and Social Science. The College offers 37 degree programs, 44 minors, and 2 professional certificate programs. Within this spectrum of offerings, our students pursue 14 Bachelor of Arts degrees with multiple options, 16 Bachelor of Science degrees in the arts and sciences with multiple options, and 7 professional degrees designed for discipline specific teacher certification. Across all of these programs, the members of the College seek to prepare our students for citizenship in a global community: to be able to apply their knowledge and skills to the local, national, and global challenges we face and to be able to make informed choices, approach problems critically and creatively, and to have the courage, depth of care, and vision that impels agency and service. Dynamic outreach, scholarship, and service programs provided through the College include: the Art Department Karl Drerup Gallery and Exhibitions Program, the Boyd Science Center state-of-the-art research facilities and programs, the Eagle Pond Author Series, the Institute for New Hampshire Studies, Internship opportunities , the Judd Gregg Meteorological Institute, the Mark Sylvestre Planetarium programs, the Math Activity Center, the annual Medieval and Renaissance Forum, National History Day, the N.H. Writing Project, Performance Ensembles sponsored by the Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance, the Visiting Artist Program, and engaged research with outstanding faculty. Academic departments Atmospheric Science and Chemistry Biological Sciences Computer Science Environmental Science and Policy Mathematics
Department of Atmospheric Science & Chemistry
From tracking Nor’easters to probing the worlds of biotechnology, chemistry and physics, students in the Atmospheric Science & Chemistry Department are engaged in the exciting study of materials and processes that define the composition of the universe and the details of our daily lives. The Atmospheric Science & Chemistry Department boasts renowned facilities, advanced research technologies and exceptional student opportunities, including: Degree programs in biotechnology, chemistry, and meteorology, with minors in meteorology, chemistry, and physics The state’s only Bachelor of Science program in meteorology Sophisticated meteorological equipment and technology at the PSU Weather Center and Judd Gregg Meteorological Institute Center for the Environment research facilities The Mark Sylvestre Planetarium featuring Starlab Sky Projector and portable planetarium for off-site presentations Opportunities for field work, internships, and other practical experience An outstanding faculty who are experts in their fields Undergraduate Degrees, Options & Minors The Department of Atmospheric Science & Chemistry offers four-year degrees in chemistry and meteorology. The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry prepares students for employment as chemists or post-graduate study in the fields of chemistry, medicine, dentistry, and other health professions. Available options: Biochemistry Chemistry Education (7-12) Environmental Chemistry General The Bachelor of Science in Meteorology offers students a solid foundation in theoretical and applied meteorology, as well as opportunities for original research and internships. The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology is a joint program offered by the Department of Atmospheric Science & Chemistry and the Biological Sciences Department. Minors Chemistry Meteorology Physics MS in Applied Meteorology The Master of Science (MS) in Applied Meteorology graduate degree program will prepare you with the latest knowledge and research skills in many core areas of operational meteorology that are needed to provide modern weather support to a wide variety of customers. You’ll learn from dedicated, experienced faculty members who work closely with students like you to meet the regional and national needs for professional meteorologists. U.S. News and World Report’s 2010 Best Career List notes an expected 15 percent employment growth rate for meteorologists between 2008 and 2018. Careers in meteorology range from positions with the National Weather Service (with whom Plymouth State actively collaborates) to college teaching to broadcast meteorology.
Biological Science Department
Explore the science of life from minute strands of DNA to complex ecosystems that stretch for miles and miles. The Department of Biological Sciences offers opportunities for research and study using the latest technology and equipment, in the lab or in the field. In faraway tropical rainforests and coral reef habitats or New Hampshire’s own lakes and forests, PSU students work hands-on with faculty members to answer some of life’s toughest questions.As a biology major you’ll experience: Degree programs in biology, biological science education, biotechnology, or environmental biology Minors in biology and neuroscience Courses in zoology, anatomy and physiology, conservation, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, and marine biology just to name a few Opportunities for local, national, and international field studies A talented and diverse faculty State-of-the-art laboratory and research facilities, including an electron microscopy suite, 1,400-liter marine aquarium, fully equipped human physiology lab, museum and specimen room, and rooftop greenhouse Partnerships with the Center for the Environment, an innovative regional research center focused on environmental science and conservation. Undergraduate Degrees, Options & Minors We want you to be an active agent in your own education. Our undergraduate degree programs prepare you to be a scientifically critical thinker, explorer and skilled biologist. You might determine gender of birds using molecular markers, or slog around in a tropical mangrove or red maple swamp following a bird with a radio transmitter. In the expansive natural laboratory surrounding the University, you might study the impact of humans on remote, high elevation ponds or freshwater jellyfish in New Hampshire lakes. Or you might study changes in tree species composition along an elevation gradient by climbing local mountains. You might study a variety of cells with electron microscopy and electron microscopic tomography. At an experimental forest just 15 miles from campus, you might conduct nondestructive studies in one of the premier ecosystem study sites in the world. Degree Programs and Options Biological Science Education (7-12), Bachelor of Science Biology, Bachelor of Arts Biology, Bachelor of Science Biotechnology, Bachelor of Science Environmental Biology, Bachelor of Science Minors Biology Requirements Neuroscience Requirements MS in Biology Expand your knowledge and research skills in core areas of the biological sciences. Plymouth State’s Master of Science (MS) in Biology graduate degree program prepares students like you to address and support current and future biological problems. You’ll develop research skills by working on unanswered questions in the field of biology; explore cutting-edge biological technology relating to physiology, behavior, biotechnology, and ecology; and be able to effectively communicate biological issues to stakeholders. Working with faculty members who are actively involved in a wide range of research projects funded through federal and state agencies as well as private and non-governmental organizations, you’ll pursue academic excellence as you work toward your degree. The curriculum for the Master of Science in Biology is individually designed with the help of your faculty advisor in one or more of the following areas: Animal Behavior Biological Rhythms Biotechnology Botany and Plant Physiology Conservation Biology Ecology Electron Microscopy
Computer Sceince & Technology Department
You’ve always wanted to be on the cutting edge. With a degree from Plymouth State University, you will have the knowledge, skills and experience you need to succeed in the world of information technology, computer programming, web design and many other fields. As a student in the Computer Science and Technology Department you’ll experience: Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science and Information Technology, with minors in computing and information technology Coursework in a variety of topics, including programming, hardware, software, networks, multimedia technology, database management, computer graphics, operating systems and system analysis Dedicated faculty members who are leaders in their fields Opportunities for practical internships at local businesses and organizations Students and faculty collaborative senior research projects Access to excellent technology and equipment Undergraduate Degrees, Options & Minors The Computer Science Department offers two degrees to meet your academic and professional needs, interest and goals: The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science focuses on software design and development, providing students with a combination of conceptual knowledge and practical computer skills. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology provides students with skills and knowledge in the use of hardware and software systems in organizational settings. Coursework is available in networks, multimedia and systems Minors are also offered in: Computing Information Technology
Environmental Science & Policy
The Environmental Science & Policy Bachelor of Science program offers students opportunities for leadership and expertise in the new green economy. The interdisciplinary nature of the program reflects the current industry trends and is designed to educate professionals who can offer broad perspectives in diverse environmental fields. Students may choose a field of specialty for a majority of their coursework. Multiple areas of emphasis are offered to allow for maximum flexibility. Undergraduate Degrees, Options & Minors Field Experience The goal of the Environmental Science & Policy program is simple—to prepare graduates of the program to meaningfully address environmental issues in the Lakes Region and around the world. The program produces graduates well-versed in complex fields and social and environmental disciplines. The degree program includes classes from the social science program, the three science departments, the business, math and English departments. Additional support comes from regular lectures provided by the Center for the Environment’s colloquium series and other on campus environmental organizations. Degrees, Options and Programs in Environmental Science and Policy Environmental Science and Policy, Bachelor of Science Community and Environment Option Environmental Science Option Center for the Environment MS in Environmental Science & Policy Environmental issues have multiple dimensions involving the natural, social, and physical sciences. Plymouth State University’s Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy graduate degree program provides an opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary, field-based applied research that will prepare you for a career as a scientist or research manager in agencies, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, government, and academia. Working closely with faculty members with expertise in areas such as watershed and forest ecosystems, hydrology, climate change, ecological economics, land use planning planning, and science education your learning experience will give you the skills to address the relationships between science and policy, make decisions for social and ecological sustainability and resilience, and be an effective communicator of science, The Center for the Environment coordinates the degree program with PSU’s College of Graduate Studies. The Center lends its expertise and knowledge in engaging on- and off-campus partners. These partnerships provide opportunities for you to work with faculty on thesis and research projects, many of which take full advantage of conducting research in northern New England’s lakes and forests, including Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, a premier ecosystem science watershed program. On campus, the Boyd Science Center, a 76,000 sq. ft. research and learning facility, houses the Environmental Research Laboratory, teaching facilities, student offices, and academic departments. MS in Science Education The Master of Science (MS) in Science Education graduate degree program is designed to promote science learning for teachers through the use of innovative teaching methods and authentic assessment strategies. For years, students like you have been working with innovative faculty to increase their knowledge and skills in the development, implementation, and assessment of science programs in school districts all across New Hampshire. The 33-credit curriculum contains four core courses related to science teaching, including a capstone research project. You may select your remaining coursework from any science content courses offered by Plymouth State from biology to Earth systems and everything in between. Your coursework follows the National Science Education Standards and the National Science Teachers Association Standards for Science Teacher Preparation and you can expect to complete your degree in two years. If you do not currently hold science teacher certification, you may be interested in the Master of Arts in Teaching, Science Education program.
Mathematics Department
As a department within a liberal arts college of a regional comprehensive university, the Department of Mathematics is an enthusiastic group of students, faculty, and staff dedicated to the continuous improvement of mathematics and mathematics teaching. The Department of Mathematics values logical thought, the ability to communicate mathematics, and cooperative sharing of knowledge with the greater community. Reflecting its mission and values, the Department of Mathematics embraces the following goals: To prepare future teachers, scholars, and professionals through learner-centered, relevant, and forward-thinking academic, research and internship programs; To create opportunities for students to work collaboratively; To monitor, evaluate, and guide student progress based on clear and measurable outcomes; To extend mathematical training to diverse academic fields of interest; To offer high-quality student-led tutoring services; To provide current and relevant professional training in mathematics education for practitioners across New Hampshire; To provide statistical consulting services to faculty and student researchers across the university community; and To foster social community among faculty, students, and alumni. Mathematicians untangle mysteries. With logic that is centuries old, or with brand new theories still waiting to be proven, mathematicians explore problems and develop solutions that change the world.As a math major you’ll experience: A Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics, with options in teacher certification. Minors in general math, statistics, teacher education or mathematics technology. Community based internships and student teaching experiences. High quality preparation for a professional career as a teacher. Learn more about the teacher certification program. A dedicated and talented faculty of mathematicians. Tutoring opportunities at the Math Activity Center. The Statistical Consulting Center, which provides resources for a variety of research projects. Undergraduate Math Degrees, Options & Minors This program provides an opportunity for a broad education in the liberal arts while majoring in mathematics. In addition, students can elect to choose the Secondary Teacher Certification Option, affording them the opportunity for a teaching career with a strong liberal arts background. This degree program requires 34 credits of specific mathematics, science and computer science courses with an additional six credits of mathematics electives. The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics provides opportunities for students to develop skills and knowledge to meet a variety of professional goals. Middle School Teacher Certification (5-8) Option Secondary Teacher Certification (7-12) Option The Math Department offers minors in: General Mathematics Math Education – 7 -12 Math Education – K-8 Technical Mathematics MEd in Mathematics Education The Master of Education (MEd) in Mathematics Education is designed to raise students’ awareness of current thinking in the field of mathematics education and in education in general. The program offers two concentrations: Middle School 5–8 Mathematics Certification and Secondary School 7–12 Mathematics Certification. Middle school teachers may select either concentration, as both are appropriate to this educational level. A non-certification option also exists, which consists of the master’s core component, a capstone experience and math electives to be selected with an advisor.