Belmont University College of Sciences & Mathematics Viewbook

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES & MATHEMATICS

THE BELMONT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF SCIENCES & MATHEMATICS The College of Sciences & Mathematics at Belmont University provides world-class undergraduate instruction in the areas of Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Psychology and Physics. Through a combination of excellent teaching in small class settings and state-of-the-art research opportunities that engage students in original research, the College of Sciences & Mathematics prepares students for careers or continued study in a wide variety of scientific fields including the health sciences.

Our College specializes in educating undergraduate students in the sciences and mathematics.

Classes and teaching labs are taught by faculty members, over 90 percent whom hold terminal degrees in their field. Class sizes are typically between 20–30 students at the introductory level and smaller at the advanced level. Faculty members use a wide variety of formats in the classroom ranging from traditional lectures to more active learning environments.

Learning about science and doing science, while complementary, require different skill sets.

We believe that the best way to integrate knowledge learned in the classroom and develop the critical and creative thinking skills needed in today’s world is through participation in experiential learning activities like fundamental scientific research, internships, study abroad or service learning. Therefore, most students within the college participate in a mentored research project, internship or other experiential learning project. These experiences are valuable in exploring career paths and broadening student’s perspectives while also making them more attractive to professional and graduate programs and potential employers.

Research opportunities within the college have been greatly enhanced with the construction of our new Wedgewood Academic Center. The college now boasts dedicated research space with state-of-the-art instrumentation that supports teaching and research in areas ranging from nanotechnology, chemical synthesis and human perception to data analytics, actuarial science and animal behavior to name just a few.

We encourage you to visit our website to explore our programs and potential career paths in the sciences.

Welcome to the new College of Sciences & Mathematics at Belmont University. The college, comprised of the departments of biology, chemistry & physics, mathematics & computer science, and psychological sciences, is dedicated solely to undergraduate instruction in the sciences. Our college is housed in Belmont’s new $78 million Wedgewood Academic Center which boasts modern classrooms, well-equipped teaching laboratories, dedicated undergraduate research space and state-of-the-art instrumentation facilities. Students benefit from instruction in a small classroom setting by a faculty dedicated to teaching undergraduate science students, coupled with opportunities to engage in one-on-one mentored undergraduate research.

Whether you are interested in a career in the sciences, health sciences or technology, graduate programs and employers alike are looking beyond coursework in the sciences for students with independent research experience, the ability to work as part of a team and the skills to communicate effectively. The combination of excellent instruction in the sciences, including undergraduate research opportunities and a strong liberal arts core, prepares our students with these skills and makes them competitive for employment or graduate study at the national level.

I hope you take time to explore our website to learn more about the programs of study we offer. I think you will find that the College of Sciences & Mathematics at Belmont is a welcoming place where students with a strong interest in science can learn about and engage in science while building a strong foundation for a future career.

Thomas Spence, Ph.D. Dean, College of Sciences & Mathematics

BIOLOGY The Biology Department offers the following degree programs: Biology major with emphases in: • Ecology & Biodiversity • Secondary Education • General Biology • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Major (Interdisciplinary) • Marine Biology • Environmental Science Major • Pre-Allied Health (Interdisciplinary) • Pre-Medical • Neuroscience Major (Interdisciplinary) • Pre-Pharmacy “We do Biology” is the philosophy of the Department of Biology at Belmont University. Our favorite forms of teaching and learning take place when students are engaged in hands-on activities. This includes learning about the human body in the cadaver lab, measuring plants on the green roof, classifying trees at a local park, collecting snails in a stream, identifying bacteria, exploring effectiveness of chemotherapies or analyzing the movement of roundworms. Freshmen work in teams to ask scientific questions and design mini-research projects. Sophomores and juniors further develop their research skills through a variety of laboratory experiences. Seniors complete their own independent research project and present their findings at national, regional and state conferences. Research facilities include: zebrafish lab, tissue culture lab, microscopy suite, cell/molecular/ genomics lab, ecology/biodiversity lab, cold room, equipment suite and green roof—all for undergraduates!

Biology students at Belmont have opportunities to study abroad through science courses offered in Belize and Costa Rica. Students complete internships at health care facilities, nature centers, schools or biotechnology facilities. Community service and service learning opportunities further round out the “real world” experiences for Biology students. Small class sizes, faculty-taught labs, one-onone advising and engaged faculty and students contribute to an environment that fosters a love of learning and curiosity about the natural world.

Student Organizations The Biology Department has several active student organizations that host monthly meetings and whose members participate in service projects and other extracurricular activities.

Environment and Conservation Organization (ECO) – Host stream clean-ups at Richland Creek for Cumberland River Compact; Weed Wrangle Nashville; Conscious College Road tour site Beta Beta Beta Biological Honorary Society – Plant trees on ReLeafing Day for Nashville Tree Foundation; Annual plant sale on campus

Student Experiences “After my first year of classes, my eyes were opened to a world of opportunities in biology. I have made awesome friends, been taught by some of Belmont’s finest professors and had many unique and incredible experiences…all because I chose biology as my major.”

KATLIN STODARD – Biology 2016 “In my research internship and while working on my undergraduate research project, I have been able to put all the information I have learned in my courses into practice and develop valuable scientific skills.”

JUSTIN SMITH – Biology 2015 “During my study abroad in Belize, I got to visit and learn about many different ecosystems while getting a taste of cultures much different than my own. It was an experience of a lifetime!”

KATELYN KEAST – Biology 2015

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CHEMISTRY & PHYSICS The Chemistry & Physics Department offers the following degree programs: Chemistry major with emphases in: • Advanced Chemistry • Pharmaceutical Studies Major (Interdisciplinary) • Applied Chemistry • Engineering Physics Major • Chemistry Education • Medical Physics Major • Pre-Health Chemistry • Physics Major • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Major (Interdisciplinary) The Department of Chemistry & Physics seeks to foster a greater appreciation of the physical sciences by equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to address problems facing today’s society.

We offer majors in chemistry and physics with various emphases and two interdisciplinary programs: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Pharmaceutical Studies. All of our programs were designed with you in mind offering a balanced presentation of theory and application through active learning environments and engaging laboratory experiences. These plans of study prepare you for a successful career in a variety of fields including nanoscience, solar technology, biochemistry and health-related fields (pre-medical, pre-dental, pre-veterinary and pre-pharmacy).

Our faculty members maintain research programs in wide variety of exciting fields of study using cutting-edge technologies. New research facilities allow students to work directly with a faculty mentor on projects such as: • Developing novel materials using gold and silver nanoparticles • Crafting techniques to isolate individual yeast cells • Synthesizing of unique light-harvesting compounds • Exploring the viability of vitamin C in foodstuffs • Constructing laser systems to detect explosives at a distance • Analyzing new compounds for oil recovery and cleanup Overall, the Belmont experience through the Department of Chemistry & Physics successfully prepares you for additional formal study, for career opportunities and for a reflective and meaningful life.

Student Organizations Beta Chi – Host GRE info sessions; Volunteer at Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation; Guest speakers; Peer tutoring sessions Student Members of the American Chemical Society (SMACS) – Plant trees on ReLeafing Day for Nashville Tree Foundation; Volunteer at Radnor Lake; Attend the American Chemical Society (ACS) National Meeting each year

Student Experiences “The Belmont Physics Department has given me incredible opportunities in the classroom. It has also allowed me to gain practical experience both as a laboratory assistant, helping professors teach their lab classes and working with them on ongoing research projects. I feel it has prepared me extremely well to begin my career as an officer in the U.S. Army after graduation.”

MATT WING – Medical Physics 2015 “Belmont has helped me to discover a love for chemistry, through the small and engaging classes, discussions with professors and the strong community within the college. As I prepare for graduate studies in chemistry, I believe that Belmont has laid a strong foundation in terms of both coursework and experiential learning.”

VICTORIA LIM – Chemistry & Mathematics 2015

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MATHEMATICS & COMPUTER SCIENCE The Mathematics & Computer Science Department offers the following degree programs: Mathematics Majors (Students in both of these majors can optionally select an Actuarial Track or a Mathematical Biology track) • Mathematics • Applied Mathematics Computer Science Majors • Computer Science • Web Programming & Development In the Department of Mathematics & Computer Science, students are our focus. We teach at Belmont because of the close relationships we build with our students, and we work hard to build a strong community in our department. In addition to getting personal attention in our small classes, students have the opportunity to participate in our active student organizations, travel to regional and national mathematics and computer science conferences and competitions, and do research with faculty. Several faculty members are award-winning teachers, including one CASE Tennessee Professor of the Year.

We are creative in the classroom—teaching artificial intelligence with LEGO Mindstorm robots, for example—and adapt to student needs, like designing a new course in “big data” analysis. We have excellent connections in the Nashville business and technology community, and our students are successful at finding internships, starting their careers upon graduation or pursuing further study in graduate school. In the Belmont Department of Mathematics & Computer Science, we expand your mind and build your problem-solving and technical skills so you can go from here to anywhere.

Student Organizations Mathematical Association of America (MAA) and Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) – Joint Student Chapter of the MAA and ACM; MAA/ACM has a Game Day once a semester (students and faculty gather for an evening of board games, card games, video games, pizza and homemade desserts); Volunteer at Belmont Literacy Day and Hands On Nashville events.

Belmont Actuarial Student Society (BASS) invites several guest speakers a year to talk about mathematics and business, and members regularly travel to actuarial conferences.

Student Experiences “As a Computer Science major, I enjoyed my time learning in the classroom with wonderful professors like Dr. Hooper, being a teacher’s assistant and applying my degree externally with an internship with BNY Mellon.”

HALEY DANIELS – Computer Science 2015 “The Belmont Math Department is overflowing with incredible opportunities. Not only have I had the opportunity to do exciting research with professors, score highly-competitive summer research positions and present across the country at conferences, the department has launched my career as well. Thanks to the incredible teaching, mentorship and career preparation, I started my senior year already having accepted a highly-competitive job as an Actuary at a Fortune 500 company. I am beyond grateful for this incredible department!”

ANNIE BRUNELLE – Mathematics, Actuarial Science 2015 “Belmont’s best quality has to be its professors. They enabled me to pursue things beyond my dreams including engaging in research in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, interning at the fantastic business of Cigna HealthSpring and networking with some of Nashville’s prominent business leaders. Best of all, I feel that I have been prepared to accomplish my future dreams in business and in graduate school.”

JACKSON STREETER – Mathematics & Computer Science 2015

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PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE The Psychological Science Department offers the following degree programs: • Psychology Major • Neuroscience Major (Interdisciplinary) Psychological Science: the scientific study of mental processes and behavior. Studying psychology (BS or BA) at Belmont provides multiple opportunities for close mentoring relationships while training in the principles and applications of scientific psychology. Whether it is studying abroad in China, working on a stimulating placement in a practicum class, conducting student-centered research in our remarkable and well-equipped labs, or participating in the award-winning psychology club, this is a department where you will develop intellectually and personally as you refine your career goals and graduate school aspirations.

Our lab facilities include: • Learning Lab – animal lab with Skinner boxes, a radial maze and attenuation chambers • Physiological Lab – EEG, reaction time and biofeedback equipment • Social/Developmental Lab – audio-visual recording equipment, two-way mirrors • Dissection Lab – numerous models to guide anatomical dissections • Cognition, Sensation and Perception Lab – eye tracking, oculus devices Yearly student presentations at regional and national conferences including the annual meetings of the Eastern Psychological and American Psychological Associations serve to fulfill the mission of a robust and complete experience in the discipline. Psychological Science at Belmont University can truly take you anywhere!

Student Organizations While cultivating the academic abilities of students is our first priority, student community is a close second.

Psychology Club and Psi Chi (International Honors Society) – The Psychology Club and Psi Chi chapter are extremely active, having won the southeastern regional Psi Chi award for the best chapter. In fact, the recent past president of the Psychology Club was named chapter president of the year for the entire Psi Chi organization, winning an all-expense paid trip to Hawaii. Club members are involved in community service, host events with nationally known speakers and sponsor convocations relevant to the major such as applying to graduate school and taking the GRE.

Student Experiences “ I transferred to Belmont as a junior from a large state school and was blown away by how the psychology faculty went out of their way to help me get adjusted. Since I was able to feel comfortable with my new environment, I quickly became involved within the department and went on to become the president of Psi Chi/Psychology Club. I was also able to gain exceptional research experience and skills that I would not have been able to get at my previous university. I now feel well prepared and confident entering into graduate school and I have my amazing psychology professors to thank for that!”

MELANIE CHINSOON – Psychology 2014 “The most notable aspect of the psych department is that all the professors genuinely care about their students. As a student, it is refreshing to know that the professors carry a true interest in our well-being, both academically and in life.”

COURTNEY BRIGHT – Psychology 2016 5

PRE-HEALTH PROGRAM The College of Sciences & Mathematics has many majors, minors and opportunities to help students achieve their health career goals. Internships in local health care facilities include hospitals, dental clinics, veterinarian offices, pharmacies and physical therapy centers. Academic advisors are assigned to students according to career interests, and Dr. Nick Ragsdale, pre-health advisor, serves as a resource for all students interested in health-related careers. A variety of health-related student organizations provide opportunities for community service, learning about health care needs and careers, and networking in the health care field. The program offers insight into the pre-health majors and processes for applying to health-related graduate programs. A peer-mentoring program was established where students are paired with a junior or senior with similar goals and/or major.

Typical majors for students interested in the following areas of health care are: • Medical, Dental or Veterinary: Biology/Pre-Medical Emphasis, Chemistry/Pre-Health Emphasis, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Psychological Science, Mathematics • Pharmacy: Biology/Pre-Pharm Emphasis, Chemistry/Pre-Health Emphasis, Pharmaceutical Studies • Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy: Biology/Pre-Allied Health Emphasis, Exercise Science, Psychological Science • Optometry: Biology/Pre-Medical Emphasis, Biology/Pre-Allied Health Emphasis • Masters of Science in Nursing, Public Health, Health Administration: Biology/Pre-Allied Health Emphasis • Post-Baccalaureate studies are available for students with a non-science degree seeking to acquire the science courses needed for medical studies

Student Organizations Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) – Pre-health Honor Society – Sort medical supplies at Project C.U.R.E. (Commission on Urgent Relief and Equipment); Participate in the American Heart Association Walk; Sponsor presentations on graduate school admissions tests and process; Host speakers Pre-Pharmacy Club – Tour pharmacy schools; Participate in Drug Take-Back event; Sponsor presentations on graduate school admissions tests and process; Host speakers

Student Experiences “From committee recommendation letters to mentoring programs, Belmont’s pre-health resources were so helpful in my process of getting into medical school.

The faculty really do care about students succeeding. The curriculum is also designed for students to gain not only knowledge but personal experience through research.”

ALICIA HSU – Biology 2015 “As a Biology major, I knew all of the faculty and staff by name, and was known by them as well. The small Belmont community is one that goes above and beyond to provide each student with not only personalized advising but also individual attention, to ensure the most positive educational experience. I was able to immerse myself in courses that I wanted to learn while being surrounded by students and faculty who encouraged investigation and cooperative learning. Through my research course I was able to safely ask questions and make mistakes knowing that my advisor was willing to sacrifice efficiency in order to encourage critical thinking and curiosity. The Belmont Biology Department showed me the beauty of scientific investigation and a passion for learning that I am confident I would not have found elsewhere.”

MOLLY SHANKLES – Biology 2014

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UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Undergraduate research is a critical component of a modern collegiate education in the sciences. Only by working on original research problems can students develop the creative and critical thinking skills needed to function as independent scientists. The undergraduate research laboratory provides students the opportunity to develop a research question, conduct research and become experts in a field of study. In short, a research experience allows students to engage in, rather than simply learn about, science.

Our students typically conduct at least two semesters of research and have the opportunity to present their findings at national or regional scientific conferences as well as at the annual Belmont Undergraduate Research Symposium. Undergraduate research opportunities expose students to the culture of scientific research and the wide variety of career paths available within a particular discipline. The college supports a variety of opportunities for students to engage in research during the academic year and during the summer. Two summer research programs, one for-credit and one offering a stipend, afford students the opportunity to engage in research projects over 6–10 weeks in a wide variety of disciplines.

Belmont has recently renewed the commitment to undergraduate research through the construction of the Wedgewood Academic Center. This new structure contains state-of-the-art research space, including 10 new undergraduate research labs and a world-class set of instruments for use by students. We encourage you to visit our website to learn about our current undergraduate research opportunities and contact us if you have any questions about our program or career paths in the sciences.

60

Average percentage of students who apply to medical school and are accepted

25 Average class size

450+ Students in the College of Sciences & Mathematics

55 Full-time faculty

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College of Sciences & Mathematics 1900 Belmont Boulevard Nashville, TN 37212 615.460.6417 BELMONT.EDU

Belmont University is a Christian community. The university faculty, administration and staff uphold Jesus as the Christ and as the measure for all things. As a community seeking to uphold Christian standards of morality, ethics and conduct, Belmont University holds high expectations of each person who chooses to join the community. Belmont University does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, military service or sexual orientation. Inquiries or complaints concerning the application of these policies to students should be directed to the Dean of Students, Beaman Student Life Center Suite 200, 1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville, TN 37212, deanofstudents@belmont.edu or 615.460.6407.

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