UTSA College Sciencesof
The College of Sciences (COS) at The University of Texas at San Antonio is a premier institution of higher learning in sciences and mathematics, with local and global impact. We’re committed to providing innovation and excellence in both the classroom and laboratory. Our distinguished faculty are eager to work with you on basic and applied research in the life sciences, physical sciences and computational sciences.
Whether you plan on a career as a health professional, high school teacher, data scientist, astronomer, pharmaceutical researcher, nano-technologist, wildlife biologist, geologist, cybersecurity expert or many other professions, we will tailor your undergraduate experience to match your unique interests and career goals.
Marissa Dominique Allen ‘22 B.S. Chemistry
“During my time as an undergraduate chemistry student, I formed strong bonds between myself, the faculty, and my peers within the College of Sciences community. From these connections, I was more engaged in my coursework, I gained experience in an academic research lab, led and contributed to the efforts of the chemistry student chapter, and made lasting relationships and friendships beyond graduation.”
$53M+ Annual research expenditures 300+ Actively funded research projects 52% Hispanic Students COS By the Numbers
330+ Faculty Members 6,000+ Undergraduate Students $540K+ in scholarships awarded annually
About San Antonio
As the nation’s seventh-largest city, San Antonio combines the scenic Texas Hill Country with the benefits of a major metropolitan area, thriving in industries like cybersecurity, health and medicine. Home of the championship-winning Spurs, the River Walk and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Alamo City is a popular tourist destination.
About UTSA
UTSA is a public, urban-serving university that is designated as Carnegie R1, a prestigious achievement earned only among the nation’s top 4% of research universities. With over 36,000 students, UTSA is the largest university in the San Antonio metropolitan region. Founded in 1969, UTSA embraces multicultural traditions and serves as a center for intellectual and creative resources as well as a catalyst for socioeconomic development and the commercialization of intellectual property—for Texas, the nation and the world.
Creating Bold Futures in the Sciences
COS is committed to fulfilling UTSA’s vision as a model Hispanic thriving research university where aspiring students from all backgrounds experience a life-changing education leading to a bold future. As we intensify our focus on UTSA’s bold vision, our college continues to prepare its students for the evolving global economy and to transform the future of our region for the better.
UTSA CAMPUS TOURS are available through the Welcome Center. Schedule a tour today at (210) 458-5145. Ask about COS specific tours!
? Why UTSA College of Sciences
In the College of Sciences, you’ll encounter students and faculty who represent a diverse range of backgrounds and disciplines. Whether you choose to join an on-campus living learning community, collaborate with internationally recognized faculty or get involved in a student science club, there are many ways to connect with others in our college.
Innovative Programs
Each of our undergraduate majors will challenge you academically and also develop your professional and scientific skills. Our offerings span a wide range of academic areas including health and medicine, neurological and infectious diseases, environmental science, information technology, data science and more.
Advanced Facilities
You’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Science and Engineering Building, which includes the Brain Health Consortium where researchers conduct neurological studies; the Mesquite Living Laboratory, an outdoor classroom that promotes environmental education; and the School of Data Science, which is housed downtown and focuses on training a highly-skilled workforce in the fields of cybersecurity, data analytics and digital asset management.
Say Hi!
Contact us at (210) 458-4450 or email sciences@utsa.edu
Other notable facilities include the Kleberg Advanced Microscopy Center, an open-access facility offering cutting-edge technology in electron microscopy, and the Curtis Vaughn Jr. Observatory, which is located on the roof of the Flawn Sciences Building and houses several advanced telescopes used for scientific research.
Pioneer Research Discoveries
Participating in research will help you become an investigative problem solver and a more competitive graduate. Our research centers and institutes span across a number of scientific disciplines and will encourage you to chase your every curiosity. Through experiential learning and ground-breaking research, our faculty will help you sharpen your scientific skills so they can be applied to make tangible, life-changing solutions.
Carnegie R1
UTSA is a Tier One university with an R1 designation from the Carnegie Foundation, which is only awarded to the most prestigious research institutions in the nation. As the most productive research community at UTSA, the College of Sciences played a key role in this achievement.
Students in Dr. Musie’s laboratory focus on a design, synthesis and characterization of metal complexes as functional models for active sites of metalloenzymes.
Internships
Internships allow you to obtain work experience, explore a chosen career path and increase your marketability to employers. Students can access Handshake, UTSA’s jobs portal, to search for jobs, internships, recruiting opportunities and event information. UTSA’s Career Center has a COS career consultant who provides internship opportunities and advice to students across every science major.
Students in Dr. Weissling’s geophysics class utilize seismic survey equipment to map the depth to bedrock at the UTSA West Campus athletics complex.
Chart Your Path
AREAS OF STUDY
COLLEGE OF SCIENCES MAJORS
» Biochemistry*
» Biology*
» Chemistry
» Computer Science
» Environmental Science
» Environmental Studies
» Geosciences
» Mathematics
» Mathematics for Teaching
» Mathematics of Data and Computing
» Microbiology & Immunology*
» Multidisciplinary Science for Teaching
» Neuroscience*
» Physics
» Software Engineering
*These degrees can lead you on a pathway to UTSA Health Professions. Visit utsa.edu/hpo to learn more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COS PROGRAMS
Visit future.utsa.edu/programs, select the browse by program type tab, click on Undergraduate Major and then click the by college tab and select the College of Sciences.
Pick a program that complements your interests among one of our 15 majors.
UTeach SA
UTeachSA is a secondary STEM teacher prep program that develops highly-qualified math and science teachers who earn their math or science degree along with their teaching credentials in four years. It offers compact degree plans with a focus on teacher education courses, early teaching experiences and access to scholarships. Learn more at utsa.edu/uteachsa.
Biochemistry
Biochemistry draws from chemistry, biology and physics to study how proteins, DNA and chemicals interact inside of a living organism. Biochemistry can be applied to make medical advancements and discover modern treatments to today’s most dangerous pathogens. Careers include chemist, pharmacologist, researcher, forensic scientist, food chemist, science writer, biological/chemical technician and quality control analyst.
Biology
Our biology degree will have you diving into genetics, physiology, cell biology, chemistry and physics. At the upperdivision level, you can choose between one of five concentrations: Developmental and Regenerative Sciences, Ecology, Plant Biology, Premedical Sciences and Biology 7-12 Teaching Concentration. Careers include biologist, lab technician, physician, dentist, wildlife biologist and high school teacher.
Chemistry
Chemistry is a physical science that studies how matter, such as molecules and compounds, interact with each other all the way down to the level of nanoparticles. Careers include chemist, research scientist, forensic scientist, toxicologist, quality control chemist and laboratory tech.
College of Science students learning the ins and outs of organic chemistry through hands-on experience.
Computer Science
With a computer science degree, you’ll obtain a deep understanding of computing systems, programming and the application of computing technologies to solve real-world problems—no prior coding experience required! You can choose between optional concentrations in Cloud and Systems, Cyber Security, Data Science, Software Engineering or Cyber Operations. Careers include software engineer and developer, cybersecurity analyst and engineer, data scientists, cloud and network architect and admin, full-stack developer and computer support specialist.
Environmental Science
Environmental Science majors learn how environmental conditions affect species, including humans. The main areas of study include Conservation and Restoration Ecology, Environmental Management or Natural Resources and Wildlife Management. Careers include environmental scientist, wildlife, biologist and researcher.
Environmental Studies
Environmental Studies will provide you with a multidisciplinary education regarding environmental issues and fosters system-thinking skills. Courses include key concepts from the natural sciences, social sciences, applied sciences and the humanities, and promote understanding of both the sociopolitical and natural aspects of environmental problems. Careers include legal or consulting positions and human relations with the environment.
Challenge Yourself
SCIENCE HONORS
Academically qualified students can enrich their educational experience by participating in the competitive College of Sciences and Honors College (COSHON) program.
The COS Honors program is designed for students to complete six* experiences that will help transform their academic journey through participation in experiential learning activities.
*COSHON experiences may be combined with some requirements from the Honors College.
HOW TO QUALIFY:
Students must be an incoming freshman accepted into the Honors College with a current major in a COS program to qualify for the COSHON program. The COSHON program admits a limited number of students in the fall semester.
To learn more about the program requirements, visit sciences.utsa. edu/student/college-honors.html.
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
» Take courses from our best faculty in small class settings
» Develop mentoring opportunities with college faculty and staff members
» Enjoy exclusive social, professional and leadership opportunities
COS SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
This program offers students the opportunity to enroll in credit-bearing and non-credit bearing courses related to professional development, internships, study abroad, community outreach and research (including the rigorous COS Undergraduate Thesis option). Through curated opportunities, students gain a broader perspective and learn how their academics intersect with real world experiences.
Geosciences
Geosciences is the study of the composition, history and everchanging nature of Earth and other planetary bodies. We offer four focus areas: General Geology, Earth System and Climate, Environmental Geoscience and Water Science. They provide explanations and creative solutions to society’s use of resources, resiliency to natural hazards and protecting the environment. Careers include geologist, environmental geology, hydrogeologist, planetary scientist, geoscience educator, geotechnical engineer, engineering geology, mining, petroleum, climatologist, paleontologist and many others.
Mathematics
With a Mathematics degree, you’ll learn how to provide technical support and conduct research for hightechnology industries, government and private companies. You’ll apply theories and techniques to solve practical problems. This degree can also serve as a stepping stone to graduate school or to becoming a professional mathematician. Careers include data scientist, data mining analyst, actuary and statistician.
Undergraduate students in microbiology labs analyze soil samples to identify bacteria capable of producing new antibiotics as part of the Tiny Earth Initiative research project.
Microbiology & Immunology
Mathematics of Data and Computing
Mathematics of Data and Computing draws from the disciplines of mathematics and computer science, focusing on the theoretical and applied aspects of computation and data analysis. You’ll gain a solid foundation in theoretical mathematics and learn the fundamentals of computation, data analytics and core topics in computer science. Careers include data analyst, risk manager, data engineer and actuarial analyst.
Mathematics for Teaching
The Mathematics for Teaching degree prepares future math educators. In addition to a strong mathematical foundation with a math degree, this degree will help you obtain a State of Texas certification to teach mathematics in either middle or high school.
Microbiology and immunology blends the disciplines of genetics, biochemistry and cellular biology to examine and analyze microscopic organisms including bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi and parasites. Through extensive coursework and lab experience, you’ll acquire the microbiology skills necessary to grow, identify and control various types of microorganisms. Careers include microbiologist, laboratory technologist and research technician.
Multidisciplinary Science for Teaching
Multidisciplinary Science for Teaching prepares future science teachers and will provide you with a broad range of learning that is spread across the sciences. You’ll take courses in biology, genetics, chemistry, oceanography and more. The degree, coupled with a concentration in a single science field, is designed for those interested in becoming a high school science teacher.
Neuroscience
Neuroscience is the study of nervous system function and disease, reaching across multiple disciplines including neurobiology, psychology and computational sciences.
Physics
Physics and astronomy studies the fundamental laws of the universe with diverse research projects and courses in fields, such as Quantum Mechanics, Electrodynamics and Astrophysics. Graduates can pursue careers in academia, government, industry, or fields like data science, quantum computing, finance and education.
Software Engineering
The Software Engineering program provides a pathway to students who are interested in the design, development and maintenance of complex software systems. Students will also be prepared to successfully pursue advanced degrees or certifications in software engineering.
Software Engineering students at UTSA gain hands-on experience solving real-world problems with advanced technologies and tools, equipping them to excel in the tech industry.
Karyme Lozano ‘25 Biology
“UTSA’s commitment to excellence in research and its vibrant community made it the ideal choice for pursuing my academic and professional goals.”
Karyme is a member of the NextGen Program’s HONEY Pathway, which nurtures future agricultural leaders through hands-on research, practical experience, and leadership skills in the field.
Seth Fremin ‘25 Biochemistry
“UTSA has been instrumental in supporting my academic journey. The College of Sciences promotes a strong culture of student engagement in research labs, which has enabled me to develop a broad range of skills essential for the biotech industry.”
Seth is a researcher at UTSA’s Medicinal Chemistry Lab, actively involved in several research projects and a coauthor of four scientific publications.
Pathways to Health Professions
Interested in a healthcare career? UTSA offers several programs to help you pursue joint admission to medical school or early acceptance with UT Health San Antonio into your desired health care program. Several of these require or pair best with a degree from COS.
Dental Early Acceptance Program (DEAP)
The Dental Early Acceptance Program, or DEAP, provides you with conditional early acceptance to UT Health San Antonio’s School of Dentistry. In DEAP, you’ll earn a B.S. in Biology from UTSA and a Doctor of Dental Surgery in seven years.
Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP)
If medical school is your goal, check out JAMP, which is a special program created by the Texas Legislature to help highly qualified, economically disadvantaged Texas resident students pursue a medical education.
Medical Laboratory Sciences Early Acceptance Program (MLSEAP)
Students in MLSEAP spend three years majoring in either biology, chemistry or microbiology and immunology at UTSA and then transfer to UT Health San Antonio to complete a twoyear graduate-level medical laboratory sciences curriculum.
Respiratory Care Early Acceptance Program (RCEAP)
In RCEAP, you’ll spend three years majoring in biology at UTSA. After you’ve completed this requirement, you’ll continue on to UT Health San Antonio for the two-year graduate-level respiratory care curriculum.
Physical Therapy Early Acceptance Program (PTEAP)
As part of the PTEAP program, you’ll earn a B.S. from UTSA and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from UT Health San Antonio in just six years. You’ll spend three years at UTSA, majoring in biology and then continue on to UT Health San Antonio for the three-year graduate-level physical therapy curriculum.
Student SUCCESS
$78,000
Average median salary for students who graduate with an undergraduate degree in the sciences Employers who have hired our students:
City of San Antonio Environmental Protection Agency
H-E-B
Microsoft
JPMorgan Chase
Intel Dell Amazon Shell Verizon
UT Health San Antonio
Northside ISD
San Antonio River Authority
Southwest Research Institute
Texas Commission for Environmental Quality
USAA
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Student Success Center
The Student Success Center (SSC) provides essential skills and experiences that will put you on the path to achieving your personal and professional goals. The COS SSC offers sessions for leadership skills, academic coaching and career counseling and can assist you with finding research opportunities, internships and student clubs that align with your interests.
Research Pathways
We encourage you to explore your academic interests outside of the classroom through challenging research opportunities. Working with peers and professors, you can participate in a broad range of projects with real-world impact such as brain health, infectious diseases, precision therapeutics, neuroinspired artificial intelligence and machine learning, smart materials with tailored properties, water sustainability in a changing world and cybersecurity. Such experiences are excellent preparation for graduate and medical school as well as professional careers that do not require advanced degrees.
Tutoring Services
Tutoring Services provides free academic support to COS students enrolled in courses like biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer science and physics. Learn more at utsa.edu/studentsuccess/tutoring.
Get Involved
UTSA offers a variety of student clubs for science students to participate in and become leaders. These organizations include:
» Alpha Epsilon Delta (National Pre-Health Honor Society)
» American Chemical Society Student Affiliate Chapter
» American Society for Microbiology
» Association for Computing Machinery
» Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists UTSA Student Chapter
» Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society
» Black Health Professions Organization
» Botany Club
» College of Sciences Student Council
» Doctors Without Borders
» Latino Medical Student Association
» Ocean Science Association
» Pre-PA Society
» Pre-medical Society
» The Green Society
» The Society of Physics Students
» The Wildlife Society
» Women in Medicine
Visit Campus
Check UTSA out for yourself! Our Welcome Center hosts daily tours and special events so you can explore campus, talk to staff and students and learn more about life as a Roadrunner.
WELCOME CENTER (210) 458-5145 future.utsa.edu/visit
Apply to UTSA
UTSA provides a streamlined application process, and our admissions counselors are ready to provide you with a wide range of services and materials.
ADMISSIONS (210) 458-8000 future.utsa.edu/apply
FINANCIAL AID (210) 458-8000 onestop.utsa.edu/financialaid
Declare Your
Major
The College of Sciences has different paths for students to declare a science major, providing access to programs and resources to promote success in college and beyond.
EXPLORE OUR MAJORS future.utsa.edu/programs
