Did you know that careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) have become some of the most influential and progressive jobs today? Employers desire graduates who can problem-solve and think analytically. OBU offers you a variety of STEM degree programs that are Christ-centered and scientifically sound. Each of these programs incorporates innovative and advanced aspects of learning.
Hear from Dr. Contessa Edgar, chair of the Division of Science, and Dr. Cherith Tucker, chair of the Division of Mathematics, about how a degree from OBU will prepare you to be a future shaper.
Undergraduate Mathematics Programs
Mathematics
Earning a mathematics degree from OBU is a valuable accomplishment. In doing so, you receive a quality education in one of the most powerful and versatile majors available. Our rigorous curriculum is offered in a small, personalized class setting with your studies beginning with the calculus sequence and continuing in advanced principles and equations. Math students also earn hours towards a chosen minor in any of OBU’s academic choices.
Applied Mathematics, Actuarial and Financial Math Emphasis
This specialized field of study teaches you how to strategically apply mathematical concepts that assess financial risks in the insurance and finance fields. You will develop the analytical, statistical and computational skills needed to determine and quantify possible risks based on past behavior.
Applied Mathematics, Data Science Emphasis
The goal of data science is to reveal trends, discover patterns and study relevant information in order to make informed decisions and predict future outcomes within business. This degree offers a solid foundation in applied mathematics and data science that will allow you to be a versatile and valued member of any business team.
Undergraduate Science Programs
Biochemistry
Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry to study living matter. Much of the hands-on training you receive at OBU uses state-of-the-art equipment. You will look closely at cellular chemical reactions to understand how cells develop, behave, and react to stimuli. Many biochemistry majors pursue medical, physician assistant, dental, pharmacy or graduate schools after graduation.
Biology
Biology is the study of life, from the molecular level to entire ecosystems. The word biology comes from the Greek words “bios” meaning life and “logos” meaning study. As an OBU biology student, you will engage in many experiments, research projects, and field trips. This is a major often chosen by pre-med students who want to continue on to medical, physician assistant, dental and other graduate professional programs.
Biology, Forensic Emphasis
Biology with a forensic emphasis is a major for those who might be interested in criminal justice or medical investigation. You will explore cutting-edge knowledge and gain hands-on training with our high-quality equipment. An OBU forensic biology degree will prepare you in the fields of biological investigation analysis such as criminal forensics, pathology, forensic anthropology, and DNA analysis.
Chemistry
This degree explores the major fields of chemistry such as analytical, organic, physical, and inorganic chemistry. You will also study courses related to science and math including biochemistry and physics. Jobs in this field may be found in laboratories developing products such as petroleum, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. If you have an interest in pre-pharmacy, chemistry is a degree you may find beneficial.
Engineering
Engineering is a highly technical and diverse career field that plays an integral role in many facets of today’s workforce. Engineers are in high demand as advancements in technology continue to rely on the principles of science, technology, engineering and math. Our world-class faculty will prepare you for a successful and rewarding future.
Natural Science
A degree in natural science from OBU will prepare you for a broad range of careers. You will be adept in scientific processes by taking specialized courses in animal biology, organic chemistry, and the history of science with a Christian worldview. Natural science is OBU’s most flexible science major and allows you to proceed in a variety of avenues to accomplish your academic and career goals.
Physics
As a key example of STEM learning, a physics degree from OBU will challenge you to confront complex topics and sharpen your problem-solving abilities. With a strong emphasis and foundation on math, this degree also combines the study of thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics, wave motion and physical chemistry. This degree can lead you to a career as an engineer, analyst or researcher, or to pursue a medical degree.
Pre-Med
The James E. Hurley School of Science and Mathematics has a long history of exceptional pre-medical preparation. Each year, numerous students from OBU are admitted to medical school. The academic rigor of our science and math curriculum prepares you to successfully continue on to post-graduate education. Our team of experienced pre-med advisors guide students throughout their undergraduate experience preparing you for the steps needed when applying to medical school.
Related Undergraduate Programs
Mathematics Education, Secondary
If you have an interest in teaching high school math, OBU’s math education program will thoroughly equip you to impart knowledge to the next generation of students who may be pursuing STEM fields. Your experiences will prepare you to teach in the classroom as you instruct and inspire others in the field of math.
Science Education, Secondary
For those desiring to be an education professional, OBU’s science education program will thoroughly equip you as you seek to impart important knowledge to the next generation of students who may be pursuing STEM fields. Our science program features an in-house planetarium that enriches your training. You will have the opportunity to take a broad range of science courses providing a solid foundation of knowledge to prepare you for success as a science educator.
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World-Class Faculty
OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.
Chair, Division of Science
Professor of Biology
Chair, Division of Mathematics
Associate Professor of Mathematics