Natural Science

Do you have a passion for nature? If so, this major is made for you. You’ll explore a range of scientific disciplines and the connections between them, gain a deep understanding of the natural world, and prepare for a rewarding professional life.

This is science without boundaries

In small classes, you’ll work side-by-side with scientists whose top priority is quality teaching. Through a wide-ranging curriculum that embraces biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology and physics, you’ll gain a big-picture perspective on science and the world. You’ll find a comfortable new home in Parmer Hall, the campus’s newest building, with 16 laboratories and state-of-the-art scientific equipment. This major is excellent preparation for a variety of fields, including medical technology, public health, forensic science, and education at all levels. You can focus your studies directly on your professional goals by completing an academic concentration. As part of each concentration, you’ll expand your experience by completing research, an internship or independent study in the field. Dominican offers concentrations in two high-demand areas:

  • Health Sciences: Includes coursework that prepares students for multiple programs in allied health careers.
  • Environmental Studies: This interdisciplinary option examines how human beings interact with the environment, and includes a consideration of public policy. 
Amazing opportunities—on campus and beyond

Practical experience is built into the curriculum. Our internships draw on Chicago’s world-class research, cultural and medical resources. We make our connections your connections, so you can test-drive your dream job in the real world. With full faculty support and mentorship, you can conduct your own scientific research as early as freshman year, on campus or at research centers around the Chicago area. You may even qualify for a university research grant. You can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, or immerse yourself in a society and different culture through our outstanding study abroad program. You’ll have your choice of programs on four continents.

International Students

For international students (F-1), this program is a STEM-designated program, which can qualify you to extend your post-graduation stay in the United States.

Dr. Patrick Hughes

Dominican University Graduate

“The solid foundation in science that I have today first started in my experience at Dominican when I was a student in the school’s robust science program. Like many who attend Dominican, I learned to appreciate that the faculty were so willing to help us. The doors were always open for each of my professors."

Discover something new

Undergraduate research is a Dominican trademark. You won’t have to wait until graduate school to work side-by-side with a talented faculty scholar. Our annual research expo in April will give you a chance to practice your presentation skills and show your stuff. Topics of recent student projects include behavior genetics, bacterial genetics and neurobiology of learning and memory. Natural science majors who wish to teach elementary or high school students can combine their major with the Secondary and K-12 Education program. Offered by our excellent School of Education, the program includes a semester of student teaching.

Prepare for an intellectually compelling career

A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of bosses say that “a job candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, solve complex problems and communicate effectively” is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is the essential skill set of our natural science graduates. This major is ideal for students who are flexible and curious—who like to use their minds in different ways. The curriculum prepares you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. In the workplace, our natural science graduates know what they’re doing. They’re informed, thoughtful, open to new ideas, proficient with laboratory procedures and technologies, and able to adapt and thrive. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice

Dr. Leticia Perez

Dominican University Graduate

“At Dominican, everyone really made me feel welcome and at home. I liked the small size because I knew I was going to have more connections with my professors and more one-on-one attention."