Explore. Innovate. Discover.

Your journey from curiosity to real-world solutions starts here.

If you've ever wondered how the world works - or how to make it better - you'll feel right at home here.

In the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, you'll investigate, explore and discover how science connects to complex global issues as well as everyday life.

Along the way you'll:

  • develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration.
  • learn to evaluate information and share and communicate it in clear, compelling ways.
  • work on projects that address societal challenges from climate change to food security.

This is your place to explore, innovate and make a difference.

Welcome to the College of Charleston.

Hands-On Discovery

Explore the natural world through labs, fieldwork and research in Charleston - a city defined by diverse ecosystems and a dynamic geological history.

Real-World Impact

Tackle pressing global challenges like climate change, healthcare and environmental and sustainability issues.

Supportive Community
Learn alongside dedicated faculty and work with researchers from the Medical University of South Carolina, Dept. of Natural Resources and more.

 

Explore Science Majors & Minors

Opportunities That Shape Your Future

At the College of Charleston, you'll gain the scientific foundation to pursue careers in medicine, health, research, environmental sustainability and beyond. In addition, you'll gain the versatility to succeed in any field that values problem solving and critical thinking.

You'll find countless opportunities for hands-on learning from collaborations with nearby Medical University of South Carolina to projects with environmental consulting firms and community partners. 

You'll join a community of explorers, innovators and problem solvers who share your passion for discovery and will challenge you to investigate, analyze and create solutions that matter.

Your Door to Discovery

 
 

From dolphins and DNA to tectonic plates and thermal properties, you'll explore the forces that shape our planet, our bodies and our universe.

Departments & Programs

Across our departments, you'll explore every dimension of science from molecules and living systems to the Earth beneath our feet and the universe above.
  • Biology
    Two researchers in lab coats smiling in a laboratory setting, surrounded by scientific equipment and materials.

    As a first-year student, biology major Chayse Nunciato (left) served as a research assistant in Leonardo Ferreira's lab at MUSC. Working toward a career in medicine, Nunciato assists with projects involving genetically engineering novel immune cellular therapies to combat solid tumors.

    From marine life on our coastline to DNA in the lab, explore living systems at every scale and prepare for careers in health, research, conservation and more.

    Through collaborations with the Medical University of South Carolina, you'll have access to opportunities for research at MUSC as well at as our Center for Biomedical Research.

    Learn More: Biology
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry
    A scientist in a lab coat and safety glasses is using a precision instrument to conduct chemistry experiments.

    Discover the science that underpins medicine, materials and the environment while gaining the hands-on lab experience employers and graduate schools value.

    In addition to B.S. and B.A. programs in Chemistry and Biochemistry, our Environmental Chemistry concentration (B.A.) ou to customize your coursework and take on critical challenges like climate change and pollution.

    Learn More: Chemistry/Biochemistry
  • Geology & Environmental Geosciences
    A smiling female paleontologist sits on a rocky surface, with an illustration of a marine dinosaur superimposed in the corner.

    "Dr. Persons, I think I found something BIG!" Geology major Monika Agner uncovered the skeleton of a mosasaur - a giant prehistoric marine lizard - while on the College's annual Dinosaur Expedition in Wyoming. 

    From field work expeditions in the Badlands to ocean floor mapping with our BEAMS Team (BEnthic Acoustic Mapping and Survey Program), you'll explore how natural systems shape our planet and our future. 

    Whether your interests lie in paleontology and Earth history or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and hydrography you'll learn how to apply geoscience to global challenges.

    Learn More: Geology & Geosciences
  • Physics & Astronomy
    A student using laser optics to perform an experiment in a dimly lit room, illuminated by red light.

    Uncover the forces that shape our universe, from subatomic particles to distant galaxies.

    Gain practical experience in the laser lab and the department’s observatory and develop problem-solving skills that open doors in science, technology and beyond.

     

    Learn More: Physics & Astronomy

Special Programs & Interdisciplinary Programs

In addition to programs from our core departments, you'll find science-rich special programs and interdisciplinary majors and minors that connect with your interests and career goals. From Health Professions Advising to Environmental and Sustainability Studies and Archaeology, these programs offer pathways to explore your interests, prepare for professional schools and build a foundation for diverse careers.
  • Health Professions Advising
    A veterinarian adjusting the bridle on a horse in a stable setting.

    Health Professions Advising offers guidance on your journey to becoming a health professional in any number of fields including medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, or like biology graduate Allyson Pace ’21, veterinary medicine.

    The Health Professions Advising (pre-health) program helps you prepare for medical school or other professional programs you may be considering. We'll guide you on a path that includes:

    • Exploring a variety of healthcare professions.
    • Preparing you for your selected health profession career, both academically and personally. 
    • Assisting you in applying to professional schools.

    In addition, you'll have opportunities to gain healthcare experience and engage in cutting-edge research in the biomedical field at the Medical University of South Carolina, located just down the street from campus.

    Health Professions Advising Site
  • Interdisciplinary Programs
    Cheerful mascot Clyde the Cougar proudly holds up a shirt that promotes "SUSTAINABILITY WEEK."

    Environmental and Sustainability Studies is one of our fastest growing programs. In addition to this interdisciplinary major, we also offer degrees in Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geosciences, Marine Biology and Meteorology that allow you to customize your studies in addressing essential environmental issues.

    Bridge your passion for science with insights from history, preservation and philosophy.

    Study Archaeology, Environmental and Sustatinability Studies or Neuroscience and connect diverse fields, tackle complex questions and prepare for careers that demand borad, adaptable thinking.

    Interdisciplinary Majors

    Interdisciplinary Minors

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Undergrad Research. Under the Sea.

Biology major and Geoinformatics and Marine Geology minor, Nikolai Sarlo maps the seafloor and undersea volcanos with the BEAMS program. Nikolai interned on a NOAA research vessel, where he became one of the first people in the world to explore a specific portion of the ocean floor.

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