Division of Natural Sciences
Departments
Biology
The biology major is designed to provide the student with a strong and broad background for future work in any area of biology or in related fields. The curriculum emphasizes a knowledge of biological principles and concepts and, at the same time, provides opportunities for students to become specialized. Students have two options for the degree. For the B.S. in biology, students may choose electives from all areas, giving them a general background, or they may choose to specialize in one area, such as cell and molecular biology. The second degree option—for students interested in studying biology at the chemical level—is a B.S. in biology with a concentration in biochemistry. Undergraduate research opportunities are readily available, and many students participate in internships sponsored by off-campus laboratories. A chapter of Beta Beta Beta, the national biological honor society, provides supplemental activities for students.
Chemistry
The chemistry program integrates classroom instruction with laboratory experimentation and faculty-student collaborative research. For students interested in graduate school or work in industrial or governmental laboratories, the Chemistry Department offers a B.S. degree certified by the American Chemical Society. A non-certified B.S. degree in chemistry is available to students pursuing careers such as: teaching, engineering, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and law. This second degree option is ideal for double majors who need flexibility in their course schedules. Both degrees enable students to tailor their coursework to their specific interests, with courses such as Green Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry. Chemistry majors can engage in research activities during the academic year and stipend-bearing research during the summer. Senior chemistry majors work closely with a faculty member on their senior research projects. Students who are interested in chemistry outreach can join the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society.
Mathematics and Computer Science
The Department’s curriculum gives students a broad foundation of reasoning and analytical skills that can be applied to many fields. Majors can pursue graduate work in computer science or mathematics, teach in secondary schools, work as professionals in government and industry, or use quantitative and computing techniques in the natural sciences or social sciences. A student with good preparation in mathematics who intends to major in mathematics or one of the natural sciences will start in the calculus sequence with MAT 201, but a student who has had some work in calculus or who has received AP credit for calculus may start with a more advanced course. Similarly, students who intend to major in computer science generally start in the computer science sequence with CSI 201, but those with AP credit may start at a higher level. Students are encouraged to consult with the department chair.
Physics
Physics is the most fundamental of sciences. Taking as its domain all forms of matter and energy, it seeks to discover the laws that govern motions of material objects and waves and the interactions between particles. Application of these universal laws to systems ranging from atoms and molecules to clusters of galaxies gives rise to challenging problems whose solution requires creative insight alongside logical rigor and mathematical reasoning. Study of physics helps the student understand the scientific method and its implications. It also leads to an appreciation of the aesthetic dimensions of a scientist’s work and the interrelationship of physics with other areas of knowledge. Laboratory work complements the study of theoretical principles. Computation is emphasized at all levels. The program prepares the major for a variety of career options, including industrial research, secondary school teaching, professional careers in engineering and medicine, and graduate study.
Psychology
Psychology addresses the fundamental premises of human behavior and the brain’s complex role in determining who we are. The department offers a B.A. in psychology, as well as two specialized programs: a B.A. concentration in clinical/counseling and a B.S. concentration in behavioral neuroscience. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong background in the biobehavioral sciences and to prepare students for entry into graduate programs in experimental psychology, clinical/counseling psychology, neuroscience, medicine and related fields. Students first survey the domain through a year-long general psychology course and then take a two-semester methods sequence in statistics and research design while they broaden and deepen their understanding through lab-oriented coursework. Students work with faculty in a mentor-apprentice fashion; such work often culminates in faculty/student presentations at conferences or co-authored professional publications. Psi Chi, the national psychology honor society, supports for student activities.
Interdisciplinary Programs
Earth and Planetary Science
The earth and planetary science minor gives students a broad understanding of processes that form and modify the Earth and other planets in the solar system. The curriculum introduces a wide range of topics, from surface phenomena such as weather and climate, to the Earth’s internal composition and dynamics. Transcending the boundaries of traditional geological studies, the program focuses on the way large Earth systems such as the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere interact and evolve. Further emphasis is placed on the fundamental physical and chemical laws that govern the cycling of matter and energy on Earth. Together, these complementary approaches help to provide students with a comprehensive view of the planet’s origin and evolution, as well as an enlightened appreciation for the forces at work in our natural environment.
Environmental Studies
Our location—between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic beaches—provides unique opportunities for environmental studies. In a predominantly rural area projecting rapid growth, Washington College students use the Chesapeake Bay region—its farms and waterways, its history and culture, its people and their environmental concerns—as a learning laboratory. The Chester River is at the College’s back door, and several environmental research facilities are located nearby. The environmental studies major is designed to educate students of diverse backgrounds and interests about the nature and complexity of environmental issues. Environmental studies encompass theories of global environmental change, how the change influences the quality of life, and our relationship to the world around us. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and summer research programs and complete a minor in an allied field of study.
Premedical Program
Students interested in a career in allopathic, osteopathic, podiatric or veterinary medicine, dentistry or optometry should take advantage of the College’s Premedical Program. The program is designed to assist students with pre-professional planning and applications to professional schools. Premedical students should consult members of the Premedical Committee early in their academic careers, formally notify the Chair of the Premedical Committee of their interest in considering a career in medicine, and attend all premed meetings. Premedical Committee members include Drs. Kathleen Verville (program advisor), Anne Marteel-Parrish, Juan Lin, Matt McCabe and George Spilich.
Dual Degree Programs
Engineering (3:2) Program
This program makes it possible for qualified undergraduate students to earn baccalaureate degrees from both Washington College and University of Maryland’s A. James Clark School of Engineering within five years. A significant benefit is the opportunity for students with an interest in engineering to complete their pre-engineering course requirements in a liberal arts environment. Students who go on to complete their engineering studies do so with a broader background than their engineering school counterparts.
Nursing (3:2) Program
This dual degree program requires five years of study: the first three years are spent at Washington College fulfilling general education requirements, requirements for a major, and the prerequisites for entrance into the school of nursing. Washington College’s nursing students generally major in biology or psychology. Two years of additional study are required at Johns Hopkins University, University of Delaware, or the University of Maryland to complete the bachelor of science degree in nursing. All three nursing programs recommend that students participate in a nursing internship program.
Pharmacy (3:4) Program
This dual degree program requires a minimum of seven years of study. The first three are spent at Washington College, completing the general education requirements, the major requirements, and the prerequisites for entrance into the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. Through this program, students earn a bachelor of science degree from Washington College and a doctor of pharmacy degree from the University of Maryland. It is recommended that students major in biology, chemistry, or psychology’s behavioral neuroscience concentration.
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