B.S. in Natural Sciences
Launch Your Future in Science and Education
Georgian Court University’s B.S. in Natural Sciences is designed for students who want to build a strong foundation across the sciences-while preparing for dynamic careers as teachers, scientists, or leaders in their communities. Located on our historic campus in Lakewood, New Jersey, this interdisciplinary program empowers you with in-demand skills, hands-on laboratory experience, and the academic excellence that defines GCU.
Why Choose a B.S. in Natural Sciences at GCU?
Interdisciplinary Curriculum
Study biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, mathematics, and computer science for a well-rounded science education.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Gain practical skills in modern labs and fieldwork settings, preparing you for real-world challenges and scientific discovery.
Teacher Preparation
Ideal for students interested in Early Childhood Education (P–3), Elementary Education (K–6), or English as a Second Language (ESL) science teaching careers-fields with strong demand in New Jersey and nationwide.
Personalized Support
Benefit from small class sizes and faculty who are rated among the best in New Jersey for teaching and mentorship.
Career & Graduate School Ready
Build the intellectual and technical foundation for graduate study, scientific research, or immediate entry into the workforce.
B.S. in Natural Sciences Program Highlights
Integrated Science Learning
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Experience a broad-based education in biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, mathematics, and computer science, giving you the versatility to pursue various science careers or graduate study.
- Hands-On Laboratory Experience: Develop essential scientific and technical skills through extensive laboratory and fieldwork, using state-of-the-art equipment and real-world research methods.
- Teacher Preparation Pathways: Coursework is aligned with New Jersey’s certification requirements for Early Childhood, Elementary, and ESL science teaching, preparing you for high-demand teaching roles.
Distinctive GCU Advantages
- Personalized Support: Benefit from small class sizes and close mentorship from expert faculty dedicated to your academic and professional growth.
- Career-Ready Outcomes: Graduates are equipped for in-demand roles in teaching, laboratory science, and environmental fields, with access to GCU’s strong network of local employers and internship partners.
- Values-Based Community: Join a supportive campus rooted in the Mercy tradition, where leadership, ethical responsibility, and service are at the heart of your science education.
Careers & Salary Information for Natural Sciences Graduates
What Can You Do with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences from Georgian Court University?
A B.S. in Natural Sciences from Georgian Court University equips you for diverse careers in science, education, and industry. Our graduates pursue roles as science teachers, lab technicians, environmental scientists, and more. Many continue on to advanced study in biology, chemistry, education, or environmental science. The job outlook is strong in New Jersey and nationwide, especially in STEM education and environmental fields.
- Science Teacher (K–12): $69,000–$82,000 per year
- Laboratory Technician/Scientist: $54,000–$72,000 per year
- Environmental Scientist: $82,000 per year
- ESL/Science Education Specialist: $69,000–$85,000 per year
- Graduate-Level Science Careers: Varies based on field and education
Career Growth & Job Outlook:
New Jersey has a strong and growing demand for qualified science and ESL teachers. STEM-related roles—including lab technology and environmental science—are projected to grow 5–8% by 2032. GCU graduates are employed in schools, labs, and environmental agencies across NJ. Many continue their education through GCU’s graduate programs, building on their foundation with the support of our academic community. Employers include schools, government agencies, research labs, and biotech firms.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), New Jersey Department of Labor, PayScale, and GCU Fact Book.
Career Paths
Graduates of the B.S. in Natural Sciences are prepared for:
- Teaching positions in early childhood, elementary, and ESL science education
- Laboratory and technical roles in industry, government, and research
- Graduate study in science, education, or related fields
Student Success & Support
-
99% of Freshmen Receive Aid
Nearly every student gets financial support to thrive. -
$39K+ Average Aid Award
Generous scholarships and grants make education attainable. -
Prime Location
Access opportunities in New York City and Philadelphia, both just one hour from campus.
Shape Your Future in
Natural Sciences
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What You’ll Learn
The B.S. in Natural Sciences provides a broad, integrated approach to science education:
- Core Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, Mathematics
- Research & Laboratory Skills: Plan, conduct, and analyze experiments using the scientific method
- Critical Thinking: Understand and apply recent advances in science and technology
- Teaching Pathways: Coursework aligned with New Jersey teacher certification requirements for P–3, K–6, and ESL
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate foundational knowledge across the natural sciences
- Apply scientific reasoning and laboratory techniques to solve problems
- Communicate scientific concepts clearly in both written and oral forms
- Integrate mathematics and technology in scientific analysis
- Exhibit leadership and ethical responsibility in science and education
B.S. in Natural Sciences FAQ
Who should major in Natural Sciences at GCU?
This program is ideal for students passionate about science and those seeking teaching careers in New Jersey’s schools.
Can I transfer credits?
Yes. Students must complete at least 24 credits in the natural sciences at GCU, including SC405 Earth Science.
What support is available?
GCU offers robust academic advising, career services, and financial aid-including the GCU Promise for qualifying students.
B.S. in Natural Sciences Program Information
B.S. in Natural Sciences Curriculum
The major in natural sciences prepares students for employment as teachers and/or scientists in industrial laboratories and for further study in the sciences. Students take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, earth science and mathematics. The laboratory work will build skills for planning and carrying out laboratory experiments in science and provide students with an intellectual foundation that will help them understand recent advances in science and technology.
Although any student may choose natural sciences as a major, the program is ideally suited for students interested in pursuing a career as an Early Childhood Education (P–3), Elementary Education (K–6), or English as a Second Language (ESL) science teacher. Empowered by knowledge from mathematics and all the branches of the natural sciences, students can serve their community as successful science teachers and be able to be leaders for science education in their schools.
Transfer Regulations
Students must complete a minimum of 24 credits in the natural sciences program at Georgian Court, including SC405 Earth Science.
To earn this degree, students must successfully complete at least 120 credits, including General Education requirements and the major requirements below.
Major Sequence
A minimum of 38 credits in the natural sciences, plus courses in related areas, is required for the B.S. in Natural Sciences degree. The required science courses are:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Courses | ||
| BI109 | Environmental Biology | 4.0 |
| BI111 | Life: Human Biology | 4.0 |
| CH113 | General Chemistry I | 4.0 |
| CH151 | Chemistry for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| or CH114 | General Chemistry II | |
| PH111 | Physics in Everyday Life I | 4.0 |
| or PH115 | College Physics I | |
| PH112 | Physics in Everyday Life II | 4.0 |
| or PH116 | College Physics II | |
| CH211 | Chemistry of the Elements | 3.0 |
| SC405 | Earth Science | 4.0 |
| Group I | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0-4.0 | |
BI305 | Biological Interactions: Ecology | |
BI310 | Ecology & Health | |
BI324 | Botany | |
BI325 | Animals and Parasites | |
| Group II | ||
| Select one of the following: | 4.0 | |
PH334 | Astronomy & Cosmology | |
PH337 | Physics of Meteorology | |
SC393 | Coastal Geomorphology | |
SC433 | Oceanography | |
| Related Courses | ||
| Group III | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
MA103 | Introduction to Statistical Thinking | |
BI203 | Experimental Design & Statistics | |
MA331 | Probability & Statistics I | |
| Group IV 1 | ||
| Select two of the following: | 6.0-8.0 | |
MA109 | College Algebra | |
MA110 | Precalculus | |
MA115 | Calculus I | |
MA116 | Calculus II | |
CS111 | Foundations Of Computer Science | |
CS123 | Computer Programming I | |
MA209 | Linear Algebra | |
MA210 | Discrete Mathematics | |
| Total Credits | 47.0-50.0 | |
- 1
The first math course to be taken from group IV will be determined by the student’s score on the mathematics placement test. The choice of the other math course from group IV should be made based on the recommendation of the academic advisor.
A student must earn a GPA of 2.5 or better after completing 24 of the required credits to continue the program.
For more information on program requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog.
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty
Eduard Bitto, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biochemistry
School of Arts, Sciences, and Education
Jeffries Hall (272)
ebitto@georgian.edu
732-987-2350
Prasad S. Lakkaraju, Ph.D.
Professor of Chemistry
School of Arts, Sciences, and Education
Jeffries Hall (270)
plakkaraju@georgian.edu
732-987-2319
Andrew J. Weber, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
School of Arts, Sciences, and Education
Jeffries Hall (234)
aweber@georgian.edu
732-987-2367
Ready to take the next step? Request more information or start your application today and discover where a Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences from Georgian Court University in Lakewood, NJ can take you.
Have questions? Contact us
Georgian Court University
900 Lakewood Avenue
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Campus Map
Contact Information
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Phone: 732-987-2700
E-mail: admissions@georgian.edu
Office Hours
- Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: *By appointment only
- Sunday: Closed
*Check tour schedule for specific dates/times.
