College of Science and Engineering

Tracy Galarowicz, Ph.D., Interim Dean

Christopher Tycner, Ph.D., Associate Dean

200 Engineering Technology Building; 989-774-1870

https://www.cmich.edu/academics/colleges/college-science-engineering

Associated Course 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

Department of Statistics, Actuarial and Data Sciences

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 analytical thinking and problem-solving. 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 emphasize integrative learning and critical thinking skills set the College of Science and Engineering apart. Every student has many opportunities to interact with professors, both in and beyond the boundaries of within and beyond 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 CMU Graduate Studies.

Mission Statement

The College of Science and Engineering facilitates high-impact STEM research, teaching, learning, and outreach to improve the communities we serve.

Areas of Study

The College of Science and Engineering includes nine departments and over 160 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 and interdisciplinary programs are:

Biology (Biomedical, Cellular, and Molecular Biology; Ecology, Evolution and Conservation; Microscopy)
Biotechnology
Chemistry and Biochemistry (Chemistry, Biochemistry)
Computer Science (Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity)
Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (Geology, Meteorology, Environmental Science)
Engineering and Technology (Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Engineering Technology, Product Design Engineering Technology)
Geography and Environmental Studies (Geography, Geographic Information Science, Environmental and Land Use Planning, Sustainability, Environment, and Society)
Mathematics (Mathematics, including Pure and Applied Mathematics)
Physics (Astronomy and Astrophysics, Physics)
Statistics, Actuarial and Data Sciences (Statistics, Actuarial Science, Data Sciences)
Integration of Science, Technology and Engineering (InSciTE) Undergraduate Certificate (Interdisciplinary)
Neuroscience (Interdisciplinary)

Further information about the departments and their programs can be found by clicking on the links above. The College office staff can also help you locate the appropriate department and advisor.

Educator Preparation Programs

The College of Science and Engineering offers an interdisciplinary Teaching Science (Grades 5–12) major under the Bachelor of Science in Education, Secondary Standard Certificate degree. Students may also complete one or more of the content-specific science teaching minors offered through the academic departments. These minors are available only to students who are completing the Teaching Science (Grades 5–12) major.

If you are interested in teacher certification, consult your department or program of choice and the Academic Planning and Standards Leading to Teacher Certification sections of this Bulletin. Information about CMU’s STEM Scholars program for students preparing to become mathematics or science teachers may be found athttps://www.cmich.edu/academics/colleges/college-education-human-services/centers/center-for-excellence-in-stem-education/scholar-education-program.

Pre-Professional Studies

Medical and dental schools, as well as other health-related professional schools, value an undergraduate degree in a natural or mathematical science 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 Pre-Professional Studies 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 Physics major in three years. In addition, some departments offer accelerated master’s programs that allow students to complete both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five years. Check with a department advisor about such options.

Science and Engineering Student Success Center

Need help deciding on a major, selecting courses, or connecting to resources at CMU? The College of Science and Engineering Student Success Center offers academic advising, and academic assistance 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. 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 (SERC)

The College of Science and Engineering and the Office of Residence Life offer students the opportunity to participate in a living-learning community with a focus on science, engineering, technology, and mathematics. Activities emphasize academics and making connections with your discipline. Visit the website for more information.

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: Biosciences, Brooks, Dow, Engineering Technology, and Pearce Hall, 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, Brooks Astronomical Observatory, and Neithercut Woodland..
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 used by undergraduate students taking part in research programs.