#FutureRoadrunner
Sciences
UTSA College of Sciences The College of Sciences (COS) at the University of Texas at San Antonio is a rising institution of higher learning in sciences and mathematics, with local and global impact. We’re committed to providing innovation and excellence in both the classroom and laboratory. Our distinguished faculty are eager to work with you on basic and applied research in the life and physical sciences, mathematics, and computer science. Whether you plan on a career as a health professional, high school teacher, data scientist, pharmaceutical researcher, nano-technologist, wildlife biologist, cybersecurity expert, or many other professions, we will tailor your undergraduate experience to match your unique interests and career goals.
David Silva, Ph.D. Dean, College of Sciences
“We are dedicated to producing the next-generation of highlytrained scientists, professionals, and leaders. Our college is devoted to providing an inclusive environment that ensures all students receive the encouragement and educational experience they need to succeed.”
WANT MORE INFO ABOUT COS?
Visit utsa.edu/sciences
COS By the Numbers
$40M
340+
Annual research Actively funded expenditures research projects
51% Hispanic Students
290
4,950
14
Faculty Members
Undergraduate Students
Majors
About San Antonio
About UTSA
As the nation’s seventh largest city, San Antonio offers the benefits of a major metropolitan and is home to several facilities and industries related to cybersecurity and health and medicine. The UTSA campus is nestled along the Texas Hill Country and is in close proximity to major shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
UTSA is a public, urban-serving university that is designated as Carnegie R1, a prestigious achievement earned only among the nation’s top 4% of research universities. With over 34,000 students, UTSA is the largest university in the San Antonio metropolitan region. Founded in 1969, UTSA embraces multicultural traditions and serves as a center for intellectual and creative resources as well as a catalyst for socioeconomic development and the commercialization of intellectual property—for Texas, the nation and the world.
Creating Bold Futures in the Sciences COS is committed to fulfilling UTSA’s vision as a model Hispanic thriving research university where aspiring students from all backgrounds experience a life-changing education leading to a bold future. As we intensify our focus on UTSA’s bold vision, our college continues to prepare its students for the evolving global economy and to transform the future of our region for the better.
UTSA CAMPUS TOURS
are available through the Welcome Center. Schedule a tour today at (210) 458-5145. Ask about COS specific tours!
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Why UTSA College of Sciences In the College of Sciences, you’ll encounter students and faculty who represent a diverse range of backgrounds and disciplines. Whether you choose to join an on-campus living learning community, collaborate with internationally recognized faculty, or get involved in a student science club, there are many ways to get connected to others in our college.
Say Hi! Contact the us at (210) 458-4450 or email sciences@utsa.edu
Innovative Programs
Each of our undergraduate majors will challenge you academically and also develop your professional and scientific skills. Our offerings span a wide range of academic areas including health and medicine, neurological and infectious diseases, environmental science, information technology, data science, and more.
Advanced Facilities You’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Science and Engineering Building, which includes the Brain Health Consortium where researchers conduct neurological studies, the Mesquite Living Laboratory, an outdoor classroom that promotes environmental education, and the School of Data Science, which is housed downtown and focuses on training a highly-skilled workforce in the fields of cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital asset management.
Members of the Tonzetich Research Group seek to answer questions in catalysis, sustainability, and biology through synthetic inorganic and organometallic chemistry.
Pioneer Research Discoveries Participating in research will help you become an investigative problem-solver and a more competitive graduate. Our research centers and institutes span across a number of scientific disciplines and will encourage you to chase your every curiosity. Through experiential learning and ground-breaking research, our faculty will help you sharpen your scientific skills so they can be applied to make tangible, life-changing solutions.
Carnegie R1
Internships Internships allow you to obtain work experience, explore a chosen career path and increase your marketability to employers. Students can access Handshake, UTSA’s jobs portal, to search for jobs and internships and recruiting and event information. UTSA’s Career Center has a COS career counselor who provides internship opportunities and advice to students across every science major.
Late 2021, UTSA attained the Carnegie R1 Classification, which is only awarded to the most prestigious research institutions in the nation. As the most productive research community at UTSA, the College of Sciences played a key role in this achievement.
Outside of the classroom, students participate in campus activities and field work.
Chart Your
Path
AREAS OF STUDY
COLLEGE OF SCIENCES MAJORS » Biochemistry
Pick a program that complements your interests and major or minor in one of our 14 undergraduate degree programs.
» Biology » Chemistry » Computer Science » Environmental Science » Environmental Studies » Geosciences » Mathematics » Mathematics for Teaching » Mathematics of Data and Computing » Microbiology & Immunology » Multidisciplinary Science (Teaching) » Neuroscience » Physics
LEARN MORE ABOUT COS PROGRAMS
Visit future.utsa.edu/major, select the browse by college tab, and click on sciences.
UTeachSA UTeachSA is a secondary STEM teacher prep program that develops highly-qualified math and science teachers who earn their math or science degree along with their teaching credentials in four years. It offers compact degree plans with a focus on teacher education courses, early teaching experiences, and access to scholarships. Learn more at utsa.edu/uteachsa.
Biochemistry
Computer Science
Biochemistry draws from chemistry, biology and physics to study how proteins, DNA and chemicals interact inside of a living organism. Biochemistry can be applied to make medical advancements and discover modern treatments to today’s most dangerous pathogens. Careers include chemist, pharmacologist, researcher, forensic scientist, food chemist, science writer, biological/chemical technician, and quality control analyst.
With a computer science degree, you’ll obtain a deep understanding of computers, programming, and the application of computer technology to solve real-world problems—no prior coding experience required! You can choose between optional concentrations in Cloud and Systems, Cyber Security, Data Science, Software Engineering, or Cyber Operations. Careers include software engineer and developer, cybersecurity analyst and engineer, data scientists, cloud and network architect and admin, full-stack developer, and computer support specialist.
Biology Our biology degree will have you diving into genetics, physiology, cell biology, chemistry, and physics. At the upperdivision level, you can choose between one of five concentrations: Cell and Molecular Biology, Ecology, Plant Biology, Premedical Sciences, and Biology 7-12 Teaching Concentration. Careers include biologist, lab technician, physician, dentist, wildlife biologist, and high school teacher.
Chemistry Chemistry is a physical science that studies how matter, such as molecules and compounds, interact with each other all the way down to the level of nanoparticles. Careers include chemist, research scientist, forensic scientist, toxicologist, quality control chemist, laboratory tech, and high school teacher.
Dr. Lamb’s chemistry lab specializes in understanding how bacterial pathogens make the molecules they need to survive and infect humans.
Environmental Science Environmental Science majors learn how environmental conditions effect species, including humans. The main areas of study include Conservation and Restoration Ecology, Environmental Management, or Natural Resources and Wildlife Management. Careers include environmental scientist, wildlife, biologist, and researcher.
Environmental Studies Environmental Studies will provide you with a multidisciplinary education regarding environmental issues and fosters system-thinking skills. Courses include key concepts from the natural sciences, social sciences, applied sciences, and the humanities; and promote understanding of both the sociopolitical and natural aspects of environmental problems. Careers include legal or consulting positions and human relations with the environment.
Challenge Yourself SCIENCE HONORS Academically qualified students can enrich their educational experience by participating in the newly launched, competitive College of Sciences and Honors College (COSHON) program. Students in the program have the opportunity to take 12 hours of science honors coursework* in COS to complete Honors College requirements as well as participate in experiential learning activities. COSHON coursework may be combined with some requirements from the Honors College.
*
HOW TO QUALIFY:
Students must be an incoming freshman accepted into the Honors College with a current major in a COS program to qualify for the COSHON program. The COSHON program admits a limited number of students in the fall semester. PROGRAM BENEFITS:
» Take courses from our best faculty in small-class settings » Develop mentoring opportunities with college faculty and staff members
Geosciences Geosciences includes the study of the composition, history and constantly changing characters of the Earth, other planets, and moons. This includes the origin and evolution of our planet, its chemical and physical properties, and the history of life. Geosciences offers four focus areas: Earth System and Climate, Environmental Geoscience, General Geology, and Water Science. They provide explanations and creative solutions to society’s use of resources, resiliency to natural hazards and the health of the environment. Careers include geoscientist, environmental consultant, hydrologist, and geoscience educator.
» Enjoy exclusive social, professional, and leadership opportunities » Earn science scholarships
COS DISTINCTION IN RESEARCH This program offers outstanding students the opportunity to do advanced study and research under close faculty supervision for two semesters. Students who enjoy research, plan to pursue a research-intensive career, or want to attend a STEM graduate program, are encouraged to participate. To learn more, contact cos.undergraduate@utsa.edu.
Mathematics With a Mathematics degree, you’ll learn how to provide technical support and conduct research for hightechnology industries, government, and private companies. You’ll apply theories and techniques to solve practical problems. This degree can also serve as a stepping stone to graduate school or to becoming a professional mathematician. Careers include data scientist, data mining analyst, actuary, and statistician.
Dr. Macpherson’s lab studies the sense of taste and the molecules, cells and circuits involved in chemosensation.
Microbiology & Immunology
Mathematics of Data and Computing Mathematics of Data and Computing draws from the disciplines of mathematics and computer science to focus on the theoretical and applied aspects of computation and data analysis. You’ll gain a solid foundation in theoretical mathematics and learn the fundamentals of computation and data analysis as well as core topics in computer science. Careers include data analyst, risk manager, data engineer, and actuarial analyst.
Mathematics for Teaching The Mathematics for Teaching degree prepares future math educators. In addition to a strong mathematical foundation with a math degree, this degree will help you obtain a State of Texas certification to teach mathematics in either middle or high school.
Microbiology and immunology blends the disciplines of genetics, biochemistry, and cellular biology to examine and analyze microscopic organisms including bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and parasites. Through extensive coursework and lab experience, you’ll acquire the microbiology skills necessary to grow, identify, and control various types of microorganisms. Careers include microbiologist, laboratory technologist, and research technician.
Multidisciplinary Science (Teaching) Multidisciplinary Science prepares future science teachers and will provide you with a broad range of learning that is spread across the sciences. You’ll take courses in biology, genetics, chemistry, oceanography, and more. The degree, coupled with a concentration in a single science field, is designed for those interested in becoming a high school science teacher.
#ThisisWhataScientistLooksLike
Neuroscience Neuroscience is the study of nervous system function and disease, reaching across multiple disciplines including neurobiology, psychology, and computational sciences. You’ll study how the brain functions from the molecular level, to cells, systems, and up to behavior. This degree will prepare you for graduate school, medical or dental school, as well as a wide range of careers, such as medical scientist or clinical research coordinator.
Physics The Physics program studies the fundamental laws of nature and the universe by offering advanced courses like Classical Mechanics and Statistical Thermodynamics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, Mathematical Physics, Astrophysics and Space Physics. Careers include physicist, optical laser engineer, and financial quantitative analyst.
Students in Dr. Frantz’s lab learn techniques in synthetic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, organometallic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical organic chemistry and drug discovery and development.
Jalen Ray ‘23 Environmental Science
“UTSA’s diversity and culture is what makes it different from other universities. No matter who you are, you’ll never feel as though you don’t belong here because you’ll run into people from all walks of life” Jalen Ray has collaborated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to research invasive plant species and their impact on our ecosystem.
Aranis Muiz Perez ‘23 Biology
“UTSA is different from other universities in the sense that the research environment here is collaborative, instead of competitive, and that undergraduates are able to go into the lab and make significant contributions to projects.” Aranis is currently involved in a research project where she is analyzing how COVID-19 could potentially lead to neurological complications in fetal development.
Pathways to Health Professions Interested in a healthcare career? UTSA offers several programs to help you pursue early acceptance or joint admission with UT Health San Antonio into your desired health care program. Several of these require or pair best with a degree from COS. Dental Early Acceptance Program (DEAP)
Respiratory Care Early Acceptance Program (RCEAP)
The Dental Early Acceptance Program, or DEAP, provides you with conditional, early acceptance to UT Health San Antonio’s School of Dentistry. In DEAP, you’ll earn a B.S. in Biology from UTSA and a Doctor of Dental Surgery in seven years.
In RCEAP, you’ll spend three years at UTSA, majoring in either biology or kinesiology with a health sciences concentration. After completing these requirements, you’ll continue on to UT Health San Antonio for the two-year, graduate-level respiratory care curriculum.
Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP) If medical school is your goal, check out JAMP, which is a special program created by the Texas Legislature to help highly qualified, economically disadvantaged Texas resident students pursue a medical education.
Joint BSN-MDST 2+2 Nursing Program (FANS) UTSA provides a pathway for students interested in a nursing degree. Students who qualify and get accepted into this program will receive a B.S. in Multidisciplinary Studies from UTSA and a B.S. in Nursing from UT Health San Antonio.
Medical Laboratory Sciences Early Acceptance Program (MLSEAP) Students in MLSEAP spend three years majoring in either biology, chemistry, or microbiology and immunology at UTSA; and then transfer to UT Health San Antonio to complete a two-year, graduate-level medical laboratory sciences curriculum.
Physical Therapy Early Acceptance Program (PTEAP) As part of the PTEAP program, you’ll earn a B.S. from UTSA and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from UT Health San Antonio in just six years. You’ll spend three years at UTSA, majoring in either biology or a kinesiology health and sciences concentration and then continue on to UT Health San Antonio for the three-year, graduate-level physical therapy curriculum.
More info & program requirements utsa.edu/hpo
Student
SUCCESS
$64,450 Average median salary for students who graduate with a degree in the sciences
Employers who have hired our students: City of San Antonio Environmental Protection Agency H-E-B Microsoft JPMorgan Chase Intel Dell Amazon Shell Verizon UT Health San Antonio Northside ISD San Antonio River Authority Southwest Research Institute Texas Commission for Environmental Quality USAA U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Student Success Center The Student Success Center (SSC) provides essential skills and experiences that will put you on the path to achieving your personal and professional goals. The COS SSC offers sessions for leadership skills, academic coaching, and career counseling; and can assist you with finding research opportunities, internships, and student clubs that align with your interests.
Research Pathways We encourage you to explore your academic interests outside of the classroom through challenging research opportunities. Working with peers and professors, you can participate in a broad range of projects with real-world impact such as brain health, infectious diseases, precision therapeutics, neuroinspired artificial intelligence and machine learning, smart materials with tailored properties, water sustainability in a changing world, and cybersecurity. Such experiences are excellent preparation for graduate and medical school as well as professional careers that do not require advanced degrees.
Tutoring Services Tutoring Services provides free academic support to COS students enrolled in courses like biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and physics. Learn more at utsa.edu/studentsuccess/tutoring.
Next
STEPS
Visit Campus
Get Involved UTSA offers a variety of student clubs for science students to participate and become leaders in. These organizations include: » Alpha Epsilon Delta (National Pre-Health Honor Society) » American Chemical Society Student Affiliate Chapter » American Society for Microbiology » Association for Computing Machinery » Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists UTSA Student Chapter
Check UTSA out for yourself! Our Welcome Center hosts daily tours and special events so you can explore campus, talk to staff and students and learn more about life as a Roadrunner. WELCOME CENTER
(210) 458-5145 future.utsa.edu/visit
Apply to UTSA UTSA provides a streamlined application process, and our admissions counselors are ready to provide you with a wide range of services and materials. ADMISSIONS
» Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society
(210) 458-8000 future.utsa.edu/apply
» BIO Coding Club
FINANCIAL AID
» Black Health Professions Organization
(210) 458-8000 onestop.utsa.edu/financialaid
» Blueprints for Pangaea » Botany Club » College of Sciences Dean’s Student Board » Doctors Without Borders » The Green Society » HOSA: Future Health Professionals » Interprofessional Health Society » Latino Medical Student Association » The Society of Physics Students » The Wildlife Society » Women in Medicine
Declare Your Major The College of Sciences has different paths for students to declare a science major, providing access to programs and resources to promote success in college and beyond. TO LEARN MORE, VISIT
future.utsa.edu/sciences
Sign up to receive updates on UTSA!
Sciences utsa.edu/sciences One UTSA Circle San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 458-4450
Please note that information, dates and deadlines are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit future.utsa.edu or utsa.edu/sciences.
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