Cognitive science is the scientific study of the human mind. This is a highly interdisciplinary field—introducing and combining ideas and principles from psychology, computer science, neuroscience and linguistics. Human brain cognition provides an excellent framework for the development of advanced machines and programs, making this field especially beneficial for the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) efforts. Students pursuing this degree will explore intellectual abilities and processes; learning how they can be applied to develop intelligent devices such as AI, robotics and large-scale computational systems.

The Earth and environmental sciences aspire to understand Earth’s dynamic history — how it “works” and documents its age and origin in rocks and landscapes; and how geological processes affect modern environmental and ecological systems. These studies provide vital perspectives into how Earth can simultaneously sustain and threaten life and influence human interaction. Students may study topics across geology, ecology, environmental science, climatology and environmental management. Program graduates are able to pursue careers in environmental policy and management, geospatial technology, meteorology, agriculture and government agencies.

Science education encompasses both knowledge and process, and its study helps us understand and advance the natural world. Science based education majors will learn effective methods to teach students the ways in which science enables and impacts our lives. Graduates may pursue careers in traditional classroom settings, museum educators, extension education programs, industry trainer and community and public awareness. It also provides a foundation for advanced study in education, law or certain health-related fields.

The significance of preserving natural resources and protecting the environment only continues to become more pressing – critical to ongoing survival. It is a complex dynamic in both using and preserving our natural resources for future generations. Students choosing natural resources and environmental science degrees will gain the interdisciplinary skills necessary to understand and make an impact on environmental preservation and natural resource management. Studies may include topics like air quality, waste management, hazardous materials, soil conservation and land reclamation. Students can look forward to pursuing careers in a variety of professional sectors, such as public policy, state and federal agencies, environmental law and scientific research.

Throughout the ages, one constant has been the prominence of food in our lives. Central to not only existence, food plays a significant societal role—core of celebrations, demonstrating appreciation and creativity. The field of food science is a multidisciplinary approach—combining biology, chemistry and other science disciplines to learn and apply what it takes to take to bring safe, affordable food and beverages to the masses. Coursework may include core subjects like chemistry, microbiology and economics, as well as focused studies food development, production, distribution, flavor and regulation. Students will be able to pursue careers in food product development, food research and science, regulatory compliance and food technology.

For as long as history has been recorded—the progression of scientific knowledge is the force that continues to advance society forward. Whether your interest lies within agbioscience, biology, chemistry or physics—a general sciences degree will prepare you to make discoveries that shape the industries of our modern world. Students pursuing this degree path will explore mathematics, environmental studies and scientific principles and methods to address real-world issues and problems.

Did you know that Earth is surrounded by a magnetic field that protects us from solar winds? This is just one of the many unique characteristics that makes our planet particularly suitable to sustain life. The study of geology and geophysics is centered around exploring all of Earth’s unique qualities—increasing our understanding of the composition, structure, history and processes. Such knowledge is vital to addressing societal needs and problems such as locating and characterizing energy, mineral and groundwater resources, assessing seismic and other geologic hazards and evaluating and remediating environmental contamination. Students pursuing this field of study will learn the foundations of chemistry, biology, physics and math with a specialization in plate tectonics, Earth materials, seismology and hydrology.

Health sciences programs provide a variety of opportunities for those seeking careers in healthcare, or may serve as the foundation for graduate studies in healthcare and medicine. Programs offer a combination of coursework, laboratory and experiential learning and topic concentrations may include epidemiology, nutrition, healthcare management, ethics, health law and regulation. Graduates can look forward to pursuing careers in clinical and non-clinical roles within a variety of fields, including education, policy, law, research and much more.

Food and nutrition degrees provide individuals interested in both science and education an opportunity to understand the ecosystem of food and how it relates to wellness of both mind and body. Through coursework in chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, food science, public health and economics–students will gain an understanding of the comprehensive relationship between health and nutrition. Graduates can look forward to pursuing careers in a variety of fields, including education, government agencies, healthcare, agriculture and business.

Physics encompasses the study of matter, motion, space and time; this comprehensive field can be as simple as learning how a ball rolls downhill or as complex as trying to uncover the unifying theory of the universe. Physics programs focus on the properties and nature of matter and energy—covering topics including mechanics, heat, radiation, light, sound, electricity and magnetism. Advanced coursework will depend upon a student’s desired concentration and may include subjects like thermodynamics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, electrodynamics and geophysics. Graduates can look forward to a variety of career opportunities including mechanical engineering, meteorology, aeronautics, research, education and military development.

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