College of Science and Engineering

Jane Matty, Ph.D., Acting Dean

Pete Vermeire, Ph.D., Associate Dean

David Patton, Ph.D., Acting Associate Dean

200 Engineering Technology Building; 989-774-1870

www.cmich.edu/colleges/se

Associated Designators: EES, SAM, SCI

Department of Biology
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Department of Computer Science
Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
School of Engineering and Technology
Department of Geography and Environmental Studies
Department of Mathematics
Department of Physics

Introduction

Prepare for an exciting and rewarding career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics! The career outlook for students with degrees in science, mathematics, engineering and technology is outstanding. Graduates of our programs have well-developed skills in thinking analytically and solving problems. They are recruited for high-paying jobs in scientific, technical and administrative positions in industry, consulting services, universities, non-profit research organizations, and government agencies.

Academic programs that stress integrative learning and critical thinking skills distinguish the College of Science and Engineering. Every student has many opportunities to interact with professors, both in and beyond the boundaries of the formal classroom. Whichever program you choose you’ll use advanced equipment and work closely with respected teachers and researchers.

Many students enter careers directly after graduating while others continue with advanced study in health-related professional schools or master’s and doctoral programs. The College offers several graduate degree programs through the College of Graduate Studies.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide the best possible educational opportunities to prepare students for rewarding and challenging careers in science and engineering.

Our programs help students hone critical thinking and communication skills as they master the fundamental principles of their disciplines. Beyond the classroom we provide opportunities for hands-on participation in research, design projects and internships, and to develop new perspectives by studying abroad.

The research of our faculty advances knowledge with practical outcomes including information for the sustainable management of natural resources and innovations that support industry and economic development in Michigan and beyond.

Areas of Study

Departmental

The College of Science and Engineering consists of eight departments and over 200 faculty members. Most fields of study lead to a major or minor, many with choices of emphasis or concentration. The departments and their primary fields of study are:

Biology (Biomedical, Cellular, and Molecular Biology; Ecology, Evolution and Conservation; Microscopy)
Chemistry and Biochemistry (Chemistry, Biochemistry)
Computer Science (Computer Science, Information Technology)
Geography and Environmental Studies (Geography, Geographic Information Science, Environmental and Land Use Planning, Geospatial Analysis of Environment, Global Studies, Environmental Studies)
Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (Geology, Meteorology, Environmental Science)
Engineering and Technology (Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Engineering Technology)
Mathematics (Mathematics, Statistics, Actuarial Science)
Physics (Astronomy, Physics)

Further information about the departments and their programs can be found on the following pages. The staff of the College office can also help you locate the appropriate department and advisor.

Teacher-Preparation Programs

Majors and minors under the Bachelor of Science in Education degree are offered through the departments and as interdisciplinary programs in Integrated Science and Earth Science. If you are interested in teacher certification, consult both the specific department or program of choice and the sections on teacher certification in this Bulletin. Information about CMU’s STEM Scholars program for students preparing to be mathematics or science teachers may be found at https://www.cmich.edu/stemed/pages/stem_education_scholars.aspx.

Pre-Professional Studies

Medical and dental schools as well as other health-related professional schools value an undergraduate degree in one of the natural or mathematical sciences as excellent pre-professional training. All professional schools require certain basic preparatory work for acceptance. The College of Science and Engineering can provide much of that preparation. See the index of this Bulletin for information on pre-professional studies offered at CMU.

Accelerated and Combined Programs

Several departments offer programs in a time-shortened format. For example, with proper advising and planning, a student can complete the major in Physics in three years. In addition, some departments offer accelerated master’s programs that allow a student to complete both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. Check with a department advisor about such options.

Undergraduate Certificate in Fermentation Science

This is an interdisciplinary program. Please see Fermentation Science, Undergraduate Certificate for more information.

Science and Engineering Student Success Center

Need help deciding on a major, selecting courses, finding a tutor, choosing a study-abroad program, finding an internship or identifying your ideal career? The College of Science and Engineering Student Success Center offers academic advising, academic assistance and career services for students interested in science, mathematics, engineering and technology programs including teacher preparation and pre-health-professions. For more information contact the CS&E Director of Student Services, Heidi Mahon, at 989-774-7506 or h.k.mahon@cmich.edu.

Undergraduate Research, Internships and Study Abroad

Independent research and career-related work experiences are important opportunities that you are encouraged to take advantage of whenever possible. Options include department-sponsored field studies, academic research, design projects, internships and summer employment. In addition, many departments offer study-abroad programs such as the Galápagos semester through the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Ecuador; computer science and engineering at the Waterford Institute of Technology, Ireland; or chemistry, biochemistry and geology at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. See your major or minor advisor to develop a plan of study that balances your course load with appropriate activities.

Science and Engineering Residential College

The College of Science and Engineering and the Office of Residence Life offer a limited number of students the opportunity to participate in a living-learning community. Activities emphasize academics and making connections with your discipline. Contact the College or the Office of Residence Life (989-774-3111) for further information or visit the website https://www.cmich.edu/colleges/cst/Pages/residential.aspx.

Student Organizations

In addition to university-wide extracurricular activities and honors organizations, the College supports many student chapters of professional organizations, honors societies, and service clubs. These organizations provide opportunities to understand the nature of a profession or the role of a professional society. Participation will help you prepare for a career and begin networking with other students, faculty, and working professionals. Information about activities and organizations is available in department offices.

Facilities

The College departments occupy five buildings: Brooks, Dow, Pearce, Engineering Technology, and the new Bioscience building, which provide spaces for student collaboration as well as well-equipped classrooms and teaching laboratories. College facilities also include the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island in northern Lake Michigan.

Modern research facilities are available to students in each department. These include a wide variety of highly-specialized laboratories ranging from nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to robotics and automation to DNA sequencing and analysis. These laboratories are routinely utilized by undergraduate students taking part in research programs.