The School of Natural Sciences at St. Edward's University encompasses the traditional natural sciences; computational sciences; clinical laboratory science; and bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary research area at the intersection of biology, mathematics, and computer science.
Natural Science programs reflect the mission of St. Edward's University and provide in-depth knowledge of scientific fields while taking into consideration broader aspects of the liberal arts education. Our curriculum places a strong emphasis on collaborative, hands-on learning. Classwork and research are conducted in world-class classrooms, labs, and in the Wild Basin Creative Research Center. We formed the Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4), an educational and professional framework that aids in building cross-sector partnerships and interdisciplinary collaborations through funding mechanisms for NSCI faculty and students. In addition, study abroad opportunities have been integrated into our programs so students can explore the world without extending their degree completion timelines.
Student-faculty collaborations provide irreplaceable opportunities for insights, innovation and growth. Our graduates develop skills necessary to prepare for graduate and professional schools as well as a variety of careers.
Named Among Best Forensic Science Programs
The Forensic Science major in the School of Natural Sciences at St. Edward's University was ranked among the best 35 Bachelor in Forensic Science degree programs by College Choice. Our Forensic Science major offers students the option to customize their degree with either a lab or field emphasis and prepares them to take on roles as crime scene investigators and personnel within crime laboratories. Read more about the rankings.
Facilities
A great science building inspires innovation, discovery, and exploration. The John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center contains state-of-the-art facilities that attract stellar faculty and produce ambitious accomplished graduates.
The South Building houses high-powered computing laboratories that support projects in robotics, environmental science and bioinformatics.
The North Building is home to the University's greenhouse facilities and was recently fitted with cutting-edge laboratory instrumentation, courtesy of grants from the National Science Foundation and the W.M. Keck Foundation.
St. Edward’s Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve serves as an interdisciplinary research lab and a hands-on learning center for students. Wild Basin extends over 227 acres within the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve system with hiking trails, volunteer opportunities and events open to the public.
Departments
Faculty
Education is a life changing experience. Our profession provides a unique opportunity to influence future leaders in a positive and meaningful way. To this end, we aim to provide thoughtful and excellent guidance that enables students to achieve goals and pursue their dreams.
Our programs are designed in the spirit of the St. Edward’s mission — with an emphasis on creativity, critical thinking and writing. This framework ensures proficiency in areas of interest within the sciences, while providing an education with a nexus to the liberal arts.
“I guide my students through the discovery process that generates a new awareness of compelling ideas. This kind of thought-provoking exchange of questions and ideas creates an ideal environment for both the development of students as well as myself as the teacher.”
— Michael P. Saclolo, PhD, Associate Professor of Mathematics
Student Organizations
Student organizations provide opportunities to explore interests, forge friendships, and discover passions.
The Academy of Science is a student-teacher organization that promotes the natural sciences and presents undergraduate research at the annual Texas Academy of Science meeting.
The American Medical Student Association (AMSA) is a student-governed, national organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training.
The NSF Science Living Learning Community provides a community space for science majors to establish professional credentials as scientists.
Recognition
Our Forensic Chemistry program was named as one of the top in the U.S.:
“Students gaining a BS in Forensic Chemistry from St. Edward's have some of the best research and internship opportunities in the nation, and access to the Welch Foundation research scholarship, which pays for 6 weeks of forensic-chemistry related research.”
— ForensicsColleges.com
Senior Seminar Symposium
The Senior Seminar Symposium gives Natural Sciences students an opportunity to present their research at the end of the academic year. Students graduating with degrees in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Computer Information Science, or Math are encouraged to participate.
Review past presentation titles:
School of Natural Sciences Vision and Strategic Framework
Vision: Building a culture expressed as an academic playground.
The School of Natural Sciences is committed to establishing, sustaining, and fostering:
1. the integration of diversity throughout our community;
2. an environment based on clear communication and transparency;
3. a community of learners who embrace a growth mindset;
4. collaboration within and across disciplinary boundaries;
5. a professional community that nimbly adapts.