Natural Sciences

The Department of Natural Sciences at Tennessee Wesleyan College administers majors in the areas of biology and chemistry. Within the liberal arts, Judeo-Christian framework of the College, the Department seeks to train and graduate students who lead purposeful, fulfilling, self-examined lives; to become life-long learners; to identify and develop a personal philosophy to be used to make wise and understanding life decisions; and to have broad knowledge of the natural world in which they live.

To fulfill its mission, the Department of Natural Sciences offers six curriculum options:  two lead to the B.A. or B.S. in Biology or Chemistry; two others lead to a B.S. in Biology or Chemistry with an emphasis in Pre-Professional Studies; and yet another pair lead to degrees in General Science/Biology or General Science/Chemistry. 

The Department offers minors in Biology and Chemistry as well.  The department supports the All College Requirements by teaching seven different laboratory science courses appropriate as general education courses.  Of these, four are specifically required by majors other than Biology or Chemistry and all seven can be used to fulfill the requirements of the Interdisciplinary Studies major.  The department currently administers a nutrition course taken by pre-nursing majors.  The Department supports, through its major course offerings, the major in Pre-Physical Therapy, which is administered by the Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences.

The Department strives to develop students' basic skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and communications. The majors in biology and chemistry are designed to impart scientific competence, knowledge of scientific methodology and an understanding of the relationship of science to society, as well as an appreciation for these specific fields of study.  These courses of study are designed to prepare students for graduate education in the biological and chemical sciences; professional studies such as medical, dental, veterinary sciences, or engineering; or employment in government, industry, research, or education

Students may pursue the bachelor of science degree in biology or chemistry; pre-professional studies emphases in biology or chemistry; or general science/biology or general science/chemistry. The bachelor of art degree is available in biology and chemistry and requires the student to demonstrate knowledge of at least one foreign language at the intermediate level. Additionally, the Department offers minors in biology or chemistry.

Tennessee Wesleyan College is affiliated with the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory of the University of Southern Mississippi located in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. This program allows students to enroll for credit in summer courses offered by GCRL.  Students who may be interested in this program should speak to their advisor for more information.