Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

This programme blends foundational science disciplines with applied technology and laboratory practice. Typical areas of study include cell and molecular biology fundamentals, chemistry and materials, physics concepts relevant to instrumentation, and statistics for the sciences. Students learn laboratory techniques, instrument operation and maintenance, analytical methods, data acquisition and data analysis.

Coursework commonly covers:

• Core science modules (biology, chemistry, physics)
• Laboratory safety, good laboratory practice and regulatory compliance
• Instrumentation and electronic measurement (spectroscopy, chromatography basics, sensors)
• Analytical and quantitative methods, including statistical analysis and data visualisation
• Environmental and field sampling methods where relevant to the chosen pathway
• Materials science and quality control principles for industrial applications
• Project-based learning, technical communication and professional practice

The curriculum typically culminates in a capstone project or practicum that requires students to plan and execute an applied research or industry-focused project, integrating technical skills with reporting and presentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical preparation includes strong GCSE/A‑level (or equivalent) performance in mathematics and at least one science subject, or comparable coursework. Northern Arizona University considers a range of credentials from international applicants and may accept transfer credit from community colleges or other universities.

Selection normally takes academic records into account; some applicants may be asked to demonstrate practical readiness through course prerequisites such as introductory biology and chemistry. English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers. NAU also provides advising for articulation agreements and pathways from two-year institutions.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Science Technologies are prepared for technical and operational positions across laboratory, environmental and industrial settings. Common roles include:

• Laboratory technician or technologist in academic, clinical or industrial labs
• Environmental field technician or monitoring specialist
• Quality control/assurance technician in manufacturing or materials testing
• Research assistant supporting faculty or industry research projects
• Technical sales or applications specialist for scientific equipment and consumables

The degree also provides a strong foundation for further study, including specialised master's programmes, professional certification in laboratory techniques, or entry to allied disciplines such as environmental science, biomedical technology and engineering-related fields.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers hands-on, experiential learning with access to teaching laboratories, field sites and applied research opportunities. The university's location provides proximity to diverse ecosystems — deserts, forests and wetlands — which supports practical training in environmental sampling and natural-resource applications.

Students benefit from relatively small class sizes in upper-level courses, opportunities to collaborate with faculty on applied projects, and regional internship and industry partnerships that help bridge academic study and employment. NAU also emphasises professional skills such as technical communication, safety practices and project management to prepare graduates for workplace expectations.