Ohio University

What you'll study

The Natural Sciences degree provides a modular, interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasises core scientific principles, quantitative skills and laboratory and field experience. Students build a personalised programme from coursework across biological, chemical, physical and earth sciences, together with mathematics and statistics.

• Core foundation: introductory courses in biology, general chemistry and physics to establish essential concepts and laboratory techniques.
• Quantitative skills: calculus, linear algebra and applied statistics tailored to scientific data analysis.
• Concentration-level study: elective sequences in areas such as molecular and cellular biology, ecology and environmental science, biochemistry, geology, physics or astronomy depending on student interests.
• Laboratory and field work: hands-on laboratory courses, instrument training and field-based modules that develop practical research skills and experimental design.
• Capstone and research: a senior capstone project or independent research placement with faculty mentorship to apply knowledge to a substantive scientific problem.
• Transferrable skills: scientific communication, data visualisation, ethics in science and collaborative project work are embedded throughout the programme.

Entry requirements

Ohio University admits students on the basis of secondary-school achievement and preparation in core academic subjects. Typical applicants should have a strong background in mathematics and science during high school.

• Completion of secondary education with evidence of rigorous coursework in mathematics (algebra, geometry and preferably precalculus or calculus) and at least two laboratory sciences (biology, chemistry or physics).
• Competitive academic record demonstrating readiness for college-level STEM study; admissions may consider coursework difficulty and school context.
• Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered in places where required; applicants should check the university's current testing policy.
• For international applicants: proof of secondary-school completion equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma, plus English language proficiency demonstrated through recognised tests where required (for example TOEFL or IELTS), unless exempt.
• Supporting materials typically include a personal statement and school transcripts; letters of recommendation may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor in Natural Sciences have flexible career pathways because of the programme's breadth and emphasis on practical skills and research experience. Many alumni progress to graduate or professional study, while others enter the workforce directly.

• Research and laboratory roles: laboratory technician, research assistant or data analyst in academic, government or private-sector laboratories.
• Environmental and field work: roles in conservation, environmental consulting, natural resource management and ecological assessment.
• Industry and biotechnology: positions in quality control, product development, regulatory affairs and technical support.
• Education and outreach: secondary school teaching (with appropriate certification), museum or community science education and public engagement.
• Further study: many graduates go on to specialised master's or doctoral programmes in fields such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology or health professions.

Why study at Ohio University

Ohio University offers a supportive environment for undergraduate science education with an emphasis on experiential learning and faculty-mentored research. The Athens campus provides access to hands-on laboratories, field sites and a student-centred community where undergraduates can work closely with faculty across departments.

• Undergraduate research: opportunities to join active research projects and to complete independent capstone research under faculty supervision.
• Interdisciplinary flexibility: the programme’s modular design allows students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, combining courses from multiple science disciplines.
• Practical preparation: emphasis on laboratory skills, instrumentation, data analysis and scientific communication prepares graduates for both employment and graduate study.
• Connections and internships: regional partnerships and internship pathways help students gain real-world experience with industry, government and non-profit organisations.