Science, Technology, Engineering, and the Environment Meta-Major

Explore This Meta-Major

• Potential Majors

  • Archaeology
  • Astrophysics
  • Astronomy
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Information Systems
  • Computer Science
  • Computing in the Arts
  • Data Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Environmental and Sustainability Studies
  • Environmental Geosciences
  • Geology
  • Marine Biology
  • Mathematics
  • Meteorology
  • Physics
  • Software Engineering
  • Statistics
  • Systems Engineering
  • Secondary Education (Biology, Chemistry, Math, Physics)

• Your First Year

  Through proper advising, you will start early on the science and math sequences aligned with your interest area. Think about a First-Year Experience course aligned with this meta-major. You'll also begin taking your general education courses.

  A typical first-year schedule can include courses on topics like like:

  • mathematics.
  • First-Year Experience.
  • introductory writing.
  • foreign language.
  • history, humanities or social sciences.
  • natural sciences.

  These general education courses are important to help you discover new areas of interest. They also keep you on track so you're meeting your degree requirements.

• Math Pathways

  The math requirements for the majors in this pathway are major specific.  Students who have a math placement score of 2 or less should plan to take MATH 110 College Algebra over the summer before coming to campus or attempt to register for it in their first semester, but no later than the spring of their first year.  Students who have a math placement score higher than 2 should consult with their academic advisor and the Catalog about the specific math requirements for their intended academic major. 

• Gain a Global Perspective

  Taking your education abroad builds intercultural skills and gives you a broader perspective on your major. The College ranks No. 2 for total participation in study abroad and No. 7 for mid-length duration (semester programs) among all Master's Level Colleges & Universities.

  You can gain a global perspective on majors in the sciences and engineering through a variety of programs that are offered over spring break, the summer, or for a whole semester. You can even participate in internships in another country. Visit the Center for International Education and make an account in the ViaTRM portal to learn more about our study abroad offerings.

• In-Demand Skills

  Depending on which major you ultimately choose, you'll add even more skills to your résumé.

  • Problem solving and analytical skills using data.
  • Technical skills with state of the art instruments used by industry, for research, or by medical universities.
  • Teamwork and effective collaboration while doing research projects.
  • Project managment skills while participating in research and internships.
  • Clear communication skills through scientific writing.
  • Innovative thinking while solving real-world problems.

  Through our partnership with Coursera Career Academy, every Charleston student has the opportunity to enhance their degree with skills and credentials needed to give them a competitive edge in rapidly evolving job markets.