The department of biological and physical sciences has as its objectives to introduce students to the methodologies and tools of science; to give them a background in science necessary for daily living and professional competence; to enable them to examine critically the contemporary issues related to the sciences; and to give science majors the proper foundations to pursue their professions or to enter graduate or professional schools.

The department offers a bachelor of science degree with majors in biology and biotechnology. All majors include a minor in chemistry. The pre-professional program offers a course of study that includes all courses required for admission to most professional schools. The department offers minors in chemistry and biology, as well as offering courses needed for general education requirements, for majors in the department of human environmental sciences, for elementary education certification, and for the Chamberlain College of Nursing.

Faculty

• David Thomasson, associate professor of biology/chemistry and chairperson of the department of biological and physical sciences
• Libby Rayhel, associate professor of biology
• Stephenie Paine-Saunders, assistant professor of biology
• Minh Truong, assistant professor of physics and physical science
• Betsy Makovec, affiliate professor of biology

Pre-Professional Programs

A liberal arts course of study is available for those preparing for careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, optometry, and physical therapy as well as other allied health areas.

Students enrolled in the Chamberlain College of Nursing take their General Education courses, along with their required science courses, at Fontbonne University. Their clincial experiences are done through Chamberlain.