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Natural Sciences Major

Natural Sciences Major

Study multiple science disciplines with the Bachelor of Arts in Natural Sciences and Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences in Temple’s College of Science and Technology. This 123-credit undergraduate degree will prepare you for careers in trans-disciplinary fields of study, such as environmental and biophysical sciences, that require a broad understanding of science and its applications. 

With careful selection of laboratory-based courses, students are well prepared for entry-level science positions and a variety of graduate programs, both disciplinary and interdisciplinary. The Natural Sciences Major provides a great basis for students wishing to enter graduate programs in education, forensic science, scientific writing or editing, or related science technology areas. Students may also tailor their class schedule to include some of the many courses required for a variety of pre-health and professional school programs.

You’ll learn how to

  • approach and solve mathematical problems,
  • communicate scientific research through electronic media, speaking and writing, and
  • process and evaluate both real-life and theoretical quantitative data.

While studying the gamut of sciences, you’ll also acquire focused knowledge over four years by selecting a concentration in Biology, Chemistry, Geology or Physics.

In order to fulfill the concentration requirement, students must

  • complete upper-level science electives in their concentration area and
  • take one writing-intensive course.

Choosing between the BA and BS in Natural Sciences

Based on your level of commitment to the natural sciences, you can choose between the 60- to 69-credit hour program for the BA in Natural Sciences or the 74- to 85-credit hour program for the BS in Natural Sciences. Though the BA in Natural Sciences creates a more flexible course load, the BS in Natural Sciences covers a wider range of the natural sciences with more required advanced science courses.

Classes & Curriculum

Students in this degree program must take the program’s introductory courses. After completing those requirements, students must take a qualifying examination.

The introductory portion of the program includes

  • 1 year of biology,
  • 1 year of algebra-based or calculus-based physics,
  • 1 year of general chemistry,
  • 1 semester of geology, and
  • 1 semester of programming.

Learn more about Natural Sciences BA/BS courses.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

*College of Education and Human Development
**Beasley School of Law
***School of Pharmacy

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $23,856.00 per year
Out-of-state: $39,480.00 per year

Our Academic Advisors

The Center for Academic Advising and Professional Development in the College of Science and Technology helps you navigate New Student Orientation, advises on specific degree programs and courses, provides post-graduation guidance, and offers peer support. You can also be matched with a qualified student advisor or advocate who will further assist with degree and academic questions or concerns.

Learn more about the Center for Academic Advising and Professional Development’s academic advisors and the CST Peer Team.

Program Contact

Susan Varnum is the associate dean and program director for science education in the Department of Chemistry.
Phone: 215-204-6390 or 215-204-4073
Email:

Student Clubs & Organizations

Student clubs provide you with valuable opportunities to meet scientists working in the field, learn about internship or employment opportunities, and connect with your peers. The College of Science and Technology offers 17 pre-health clubs and 15 major clubs. Learn about College of Science and Technology clubs and organizations.

Study Away

Deepen your understanding of your math, natural science or computer science coursework by experiencing firsthand how such disciplines are studied overseas. Temple’s study abroad program offers College of Science and Technology students opportunities to spend a summer or semester studying in Germany, Italy, Japan and Spain. Learn more about your options for studying away.

College of Science and Technology undergraduate students can also take part in international research. These opportunities include the following external scholarship programs.

  • The Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship provides funding for underrepresented students to study in nontraditional destinations such as Australia and Eastern Europe.
  • The Boren Scholarship Summer STEM Initiative offers undergraduate STEM majors opportunities to participate in a language-intensive program.
  • The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research and Temple offer opportunities for students in biology, chemistry and physics programs to work in research groups in Pune, India, over the summer.
  • The Siena Biomedical Research Program provides the opportunity for students to spend their summer working full time in a biotechnology and pathology lab based in Tuscany, Italy.
  • The Sicily Applied Biotechnology Program allows students to learn the biological basis behind the technology used for art conservation and then apply that knowledge in the laboratory and in the field.

Learn more about study abroad programs for College of Science and Technology students.

Accreditation

As a division within Temple University, the College of Science and Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Concentrations

This degree program can be completed with or without a concentration. Your concentration options include

    Additional Program Information

    Available as a minor.