College of Sciences & Mathematics Viewbook

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES & MATHEMATICS

College of Sciences & Mathematics 1900 Belmont Boulevard Nashville, TN 37212

615.460.6417

belmont.edu/science-math

/belmontcsm

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.

CSM-182010

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, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Psychology and Physics. Through a combination of excellent teaching in small class settings and state-of-the-art research opportunities, we prepare students for careers and graduate study in a wide variety of scientific fields including the health sciences. Over 50 percent of the students graduating from the College each year go on to graduate study in mathematics, science or health science, while over 35 percent obtain jobs in their field of study.

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

Classes and teaching labs are taught by faculty members, over 90 percent of whom hold terminal degrees in their field. Class sizes are typically between 20–25 students at the introductory level and smaller at the advanced level. For classes with an associated laboratory, faculty teach both the lecture and lab components of the class.

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

We believe that the best way to integrate knowledge and develop the critical and creative thinking skills needed in today’s world is through participation in original research. All students are provided the opportunity to engage in faculty-mentored research during their academic career, and a vast majority conduct at least a semester of research. Those students not engaged in research participate in other experiential activities like internships and studyabroad programs.

Research opportunities within the College have been greatly enhanced with the completion of our new Janet Ayers Academic Center. The College now boasts dedicated research space with state-of-the-art instrumentation, all of which is used regularly by our students. While much research is conducted during the academic year, the College also provides summer research opportunities through credit-earning and stipended programs.

Welcome to the College of Sciences & Mathematics at Belmont University. The College, which includes 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 Janet Ayers Academic Center, which boasts modern classrooms, well-equipped teaching laboratories, dedicated undergraduate research space and state-of-the-art instrumentation facilities. All of these spaces are designed to provide our students with opportunities to engage hands-on in the sciences through teaching labs and original research projects.

Whether you are interested in a career in the sciences or a related field—such as health science or technology—graduate programs and employers alike are looking beyond coursework for critical thinking, communication, leadership and problem-solving skills students develop by working independently on an original research question. Belmont’s College of Sciences & Mathematics combines excellent instruction in a small classroom setting with a strong liberal arts curriculum and opportunities for all students to engage in research, equipping students with the skills that make them competitive for employment or graduate study at the national level.

Please take the time to explore our website to learn more about our programs of study and stop by our Facebook page to see up-to-date information on student activities and accomplishments. 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: • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Major (Interdisciplinary) º Ecology & Biodiversity • Environmental Science Major º General Biology (Interdisciplinary) º Marine Biology • Neuroscience Major (Interdisciplinary) º Pre-Allied Health º Pre-Medical º Pre-Pharmacy º Secondary Education “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 studying neurodegenerative diseases. 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 extra-curricular 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 “The professors and staff have given me individual support and copious time to help me learn perseverance when topics were difficult for me and when I have needed their guidance in research, presentations and in my future career.”

MCKENZIE ROBERTS – Biology 2018 “Our Biology Department has allowed me to excel in and out of the classroom. The opportunity to do research with dedicated professors allows me to apply what I learned from lectures to the lab work I design and conduct.”

PRIYANKA KUMAR – Honors Biology 2018 “I could not be more thankful for both my professors and research advisor, as they actively engage in the education and well-being of each student. It not only makes going to class so much more enjoyable, but also allows students to recognize the importance of their place in the Belmont community.”

SARAH ANDERSON – Biology 2017 2

CHEMISTRY & PHYSICS The Chemistry & Physics Department offers the following degree programs: • Chemistry Major with emphases in: • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Major º Advanced Chemistry (Interdisciplinary) º Applied Chemistry • Pharmaceutical Studies Major (Interdisciplinary) º Chemistry Education • Engineering Physics Major º Pre-Health Chemistry • Physics Pre-Health Major • Physics Major 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 additional 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 a 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 ultra-sensitive laser spectrometers • Using machine learning to develop acoustic filters 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 National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Student Chapter – Host demonstrations of science activities and provide tutoring for students both at Belmont and in the broader Nashville community

Student Experiences “The small class sizes and integrated approach to medical physics have helped me find deeper connections between the sciences. Both classes in my major and general education courses have taught me marketable skills that give me an edge when applying for jobs and medical school.”

JENNA HULSEY – Physics Pre-Health 2017 “The courses that I have taken, though challenging, have served to enhance and develop my critical thinking and problem-solving skills—skills that I will need to utilize throughout my future career.”

LIBBY LIGON – Chemistry 2017

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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 “Majoring in Computer Science at Belmont meant that I was constantly challenged to pursue greater skill and creativity in my field. Each class gave me a supportive, engaging professor to explore the material with and a useful experience to look back on as I moved into my career. Being in my second full-time position as a mobile app developer, I can confidently say that my time in the Computer Science program gave me a solid foundation to build on.”

NATE SOTTEK – Computer Science 2017 “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 “The Mathematics & Computer Science department is filled with professors who are dedicated to ensuring students’ success. It is a community that shapes an unforgettable college experience and provides countless opportunities to succeed.”

KAILEE GERZEMA – Mathematics 2018 4

PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE The Psychological Science Department offers the following degree programs: • Psychology Major • Neuroscience Major (Interdisciplinary) Psychological Science is defined as the scientific study of mental processes and behavior. Studying psychology (B.S. or B.A.) 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. Belmont has recently started a chapter of Nu Rho Psi, the National Honor Society in Neuroscience.

Student Experiences “The Neuroscience major at Belmont University is designed to provide students with a unique interdisciplinary approach to the most fascinating organ of the body­—the brain. As one of the fastest growing areas of study, the Neuroscience major makes for a well-rounded individual by encompassing various areas of study including biology, psychology, chemistry, computer science and physics. The faculty and staff ’s mentorship and instruction are integral to shaping the growing minds of all students by transforming curiosity into fruitful works.”

CRYSTAL LEMUS – Neuroscience 2019 “I was able to become involved in a research project as a freshman, which was monumental in me becoming aware of the numerous opportunities available in the psychology department. The skills I’ve gained have taken me to public policy internships in Washington, D.C., and multiple academic conferences.

Through my exploration of various topics and questions, I have discovered more about myself and what I find most important to devote to my studies. As I continue to grow and explore different research interests, my experience at Belmont has provided me the necessary foundation to prepare for a career in scholarship.”

JUSTIN LANG – Psychology & Sociology 2017 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. The College supports an early assurance program that grants automatic admission to Belmont’s College of Pharmacy to pre-qualified undergraduate students that maintain a minimum GPA during their first two years of study at Belmont.

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 Student Associtation (PSA) – Tour pharmacy schools; Participate in Drug Take-Back event; Sponsor presentations on graduate school admissions tests and process; Host speakers

Student Experiences “I am so grateful for all the support and guidance offered by my professors and advisors at Belmont, as well as the camaraderie of our student body. Belmont has provided me with unique opportunities in research, community involvement and education that have thoroughly prepared me for the future I am pursuing.”

KARA GARRETT – Neuroscience 2018 “What brought me to Belmont were the faculty-student relationships and class sizes; the former not only invigorated my academic life, but helped me grow as a person as well. The Biology Department’s curriculum has proven to be apt preparation for graduate school, and the extracurricular opportunities, such as Alpha Epsilon Delta, provide sound ways to foster leadership, exposure into the pre-health paradigm and emotional intelligence.”

BRIAN SONG – Biology 2017

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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 Janet Ayers 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.

92%

of graduates are professionally employeed or are pursuing a graduate degree

75%

two-year running average

of students who apply to medical school and are accepted, compared to the 36% national average

21

500+

100

55

Average class size

more than

CSM students presented their research at regional, national and international conferences last year

Students in the College of Sciences & Mathematics

Full-time faculty 7

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, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Psychology and Physics. Through a combination of excellent teaching in small class settings and state-of-the-art research opportunities, we prepare students for careers and graduate study in a wide variety of scientific fields including the health sciences. Over 50 percent of the students graduating from the College each year go on to graduate study in mathematics, science or health science, while over 35 percent obtain jobs in their field of study.

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

Classes and teaching labs are taught by faculty members, over 90 percent of whom hold terminal degrees in their field. Class sizes are typically between 20–25 students at the introductory level and smaller at the advanced level. For classes with an associated laboratory, faculty teach both the lecture and lab components of the class.

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

We believe that the best way to integrate knowledge and develop the critical and creative thinking skills needed in today’s world is through participation in original research. All students are provided the opportunity to engage in faculty-mentored research during their academic career, and a vast majority conduct at least a semester of research. Those students not engaged in research participate in other experiential activities like internships and studyabroad programs.

Research opportunities within the College have been greatly enhanced with the completion of our new Janet Ayers Academic Center. The College now boasts dedicated research space with state-of-the-art instrumentation, all of which is used regularly by our students. While much research is conducted during the academic year, the College also provides summer research opportunities through credit-earning and stipended programs.

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES & MATHEMATICS

College of Sciences & Mathematics 1900 Belmont Boulevard Nashville, TN 37212

615.460.6417

belmont.edu/science-math

/belmontcsm

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.

CSM-182010