Santa Clara University

What you'll study

The Natural Sciences curriculum combines core courses across biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics with elective modules that allow you to tailor the degree to specific interests such as ecology, molecular biology, environmental science, or pre‑professional pathways. Teaching emphasises laboratory skills, quantitative reasoning, data analysis and scientific communication.

• Core modules — foundational classes in general chemistry, general biology, calculus, and introductory physics that build a common scientific vocabulary and experimental competence.
• Laboratory and practical work — semester‑long lab courses and project‑based modules that teach experimental design, instrumentation, and safety practices.
• Advanced electives — options may include courses in molecular biology, organic chemistry, biochemistry, ecology and evolution, environmental science, computational methods in biology, and upper‑level physics topics.
• Research project or capstone — an independent or faculty‑mentored research project, often resulting in a written thesis or presentation; opportunities exist to join ongoing faculty labs or community‑engaged projects.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities — students can combine natural sciences study with coursework in philosophy of science, ethics, public health, data science or engineering to shape career goals.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Natural Sciences programme looks for strong preparation in high‑school science and mathematics and evidence of academic readiness for university‑level STEM study. Applicants are evaluated on a combination of academic record, teacher recommendations and personal statements.

• Secondary school credentials — successful applicants typically present a robust transcript with coursework in biology and/or chemistry and higher‑level mathematics (for example, A‑levels, IB higher‑level maths and sciences, or equivalent national qualifications).
• Standardised tests — Santa Clara University’s current testing policy should be checked directly; where provided, standardised test scores may be considered but are not the sole criterion for admission.
• Preparatory experience — laboratory coursework, summer science programmes, research experience or extracurricular science activities strengthen an application.
• International applicants — must present recognised secondary qualifications equivalent to U.S. high school completion and meet English language proficiency requirements such as acceptable TOEFL or IELTS scores unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Natural Sciences develop versatile scientific and analytical skills that prepare them for a range of careers and further study. The programme’s combination of laboratory practice, quantitative training and communication abilities is valued across sectors.

• Scientific and technical roles — laboratory technician, research assistant, environmental technician, quality control analyst in biotech, pharmaceutical or environmental firms.
• Healthcare and allied fields — entry to graduate or professional programmes (medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, public health) following requisite prerequisites and admissions processes.
• Data and computational science — roles that apply quantitative and computational skills such as data analyst or technician in health informatics and life‑science companies.
• Environmental and conservation careers — positions with NGOs, government agencies or private consultancies working on conservation, sustainability and environmental assessment.
• Further study and academia — alumni commonly pursue masters or doctoral degrees in biology, chemistry, environmental science, biomedical sciences or related disciplines.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University offers small class sizes and an emphasis on mentorship, allowing undergraduates frequent interactions with faculty and opportunities to join research projects early. The university’s Jesuit tradition emphasises ethical reflection, service and social responsibility — dimensions that are integrated into the scientific curriculum and community engagement.

• Hands‑on research — undergraduates can work in faculty laboratories, participate in summer research programmes and present at symposia, gaining practical experience valued by employers and graduate schools.
• Location advantage — situated in Silicon Valley, the university provides access to internships, industry partnerships and cross‑disciplinary initiatives with biotech, environmental and tech organisations.
• Interdisciplinary and career support — resources such as career services, writing centres and interdisciplinary centres help students prepare for postgraduate study, professional schools and diverse career paths.