Undergraduate Degrees
The USU College of Science offers more than 50 undergraduate major options and nearly 20 minors. From Human Biology to Geoarchaelogy, faculty members prepare students for careers in a wide range of fields. For more information about these programs, visit our departmental websites for program-specific information.
Biology
New freshmen admitted to USU in good standing qualify for admission to the Biology and Public Health majors. Transfer students from other institutions need a 2.25 transfer GPA; students transferring from other USU majors need to be in good standing with a 2.25 cumulative GPA for admission to the Biology major and 2.50 GPA for admissions to Public Health major.
Chemistry and Biochemistry
The USU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers three bechelor degree options with emphases for students interested in fields ranging from professional chemistry, to law, medicine, and chemistry teaching. With options for everyone and a world-renowned team of faculty and instructors, our chemistry and biochemistry programs are perfect for many students.
Computer Science
The USU BS of Computer Science degree is accredited by the CAC Accreditation Commission of ABET and includes coursework in artificial intelligence, compiler construction, computer graphics, database systems, information systems, operating systems, parallel processing, and software engineering, among other topics.
Geosciences
Geosciences is a major for students who love being outdoors and for those who are interested in discovering, managing, and conserving natural resources. Job opportunities for Geosciences graduates include petroleum, mineral, hydrothermal, and water exploration and development. Additionally, students are prepared to enter positions in environmental engineering and government agencies where they may oversee land management and research.
Mathematics and Statistics
Options for studies and future careers abound in the USU Mathematics and Statistics Department. Ranging from mathematics education to computational mathematics, statistics, data science, and actuarial science, majors in this department prepare students for growing fields. Read more about the department's degree options below.
Physics
The USU Physics Department has, on average, over 100 total physics majors and about 15 graduates per year. We offer 5 bachelor degree tracks that can be tailored to your specific career interests. All of our majors participate in faculty mentored research, gaining valuable experience in our campus research centers and laboratories. We are also home to an active, national award winning chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS).
Undergraduate Advising
Students are encouraged to visit with their advisor each semester to discuss course plan options and to ask any questions they may have about graduation, career preparation, or otherwise. Use the information below to determine which College of Science advisor oversees your major, minor, or program, and set up an appointment to meet with them.
Biology Advising
Dani Lawrence
Advising for:
- Biology (BA, BS)
Email: dani.lawrence@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-7906
Office: LSB 201
Schedule an Appointment with Dani Lawrence
Samuel Rivera
Advising for:
- Biology (BA, BS)
Email: samuel.rivera@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-0431
Office: LSB 202
Schedule an Appointment with Samuel Rivera
Carl Farley
Advising for:
- Public Health (BA, BS)
Email: carl.farley@usu.edu
Phone: (435) 797-2566
Office: BNR 323
Chemistry and Biochemistry Advising
Jordan Truex
Advising for:
- Chemistry Teaching (BS)
- Chemistry (BS, BA)
- Physical Science(Composite Teaching) (BS)
- Biochemistry (BS)
- Chemistry (Minor)
Email: chem.undergrad@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-0544
Office: MCL 140
College of Science Advising
JanaLee Johnson
Advising for:
- Earth Science Composite Teaching (BA, BS)
- General Studies (BS, BA)
- Geology (BS, BA)
- Graduation
- Interdisciplinary Studies (BS, BA)
Email: janalee.johnson@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-2481
Office: ESLC 245H
Computer Science Advising
Myra Brown
Advising for:
- Computer Science Majors (Last Name C-Z)
Email: myra.brown@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-0527
Office: Old Main 423
Schedule and Appointment with Myra Brown
Kaitlyn Fjeldsted
Advising for:
- Computer Science Majors (Last Name A-B)
- Computer Science Minor
Email: kaitlyn.fjeldsted@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-0778
Office: Old Main 423
Schedule and Appointment with Kaitlyn Fjeldsted
Zach Ellis
Peer-Advising for:
- Computer Science (Major and Minor)
Email: zachary.ellis@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-0527
Office: Old Main 427
Physics Advising
Karalee Ransom
Advising for:
- Physics (BA, BS)
- Physics Teaching (BS)
- Physical Science (Composite Teaching) (BS)
Email: karalee.ransom@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-4021
Office: SER 250 D
Geosciences Advising
JanaLee Johnson
Advising for:
- Earth Science Composite Teaching (BA, BS)
- General Studies (BS, BA)
- Geology (BS, BA)
- Graduation
- Interdisciplinary Studies (BS, BA)
Email: janalee.johnson@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-2481
Office: ESLC 245H
Mathematics and Statistics Advising
Math/Stat Advising Office
Advising for:
- Mathematics/Statistics (Composite) (BA, BS)
- Mathematics/Statistics Education (Composite) (BA, BS)
- Statistics (BA, BS)
- Mathematics (BA, BA)
- Mathematics Education (BA, BS)
Email: math.advising@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-0268
Office: ANSC 117
Physics Advising
Karalee Ransom
Advising for:
- Physics (BA, BS)
- Physics Teaching (BS)
- Physical Science (Composite Teaching) (BS)
Email: karalee.ransom@usu.edu
Phone : (435) 797-4021
Office: SER 250 D
Scholarships and Fellowships
There are numerous ways to find financial aid opportunities within the College of Science and through the USU Financial Aid Office. Each department offers scholarship opportunities to students in their programs, and the College of Science Dean's Office has scholarships available each year for juniors and senoras who have declared a major within one of the College's six departments. All College of Science scholarships and scholarships for the Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Mathematics and Statistics Departments can be reviewed and applied for via https://usu.awardspring.com/. See the department webpages below for other department-specific scholarships.
For graduate student scholarships, visit your department's website, or view graduate student scholarships available through the College.
Dean's Office Scholarships
The application deadline for the 2021-2022 College of Science scholarships is Friday, February 26, 2021.
Complete The College of Science Scholarship Application
Available College of Science Scholarships
Campbell Scientific Science Scholarship. Awarded to a junior or senior student majoring in a discipline within the College of Science. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Charles J. Sorenson Scholarship. Award is given to an outstanding science student having high academic ability, personal integrity, providing civic leadership within the community, and demonstrating financial need. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
College of Science Scholarships. Award is given to an outstanding science student having high academic ability, personal integrity, providing civic leadership within the community, and demonstrating financial need. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Dr. Joseph E. Greaves Memorial Scholarship. Recipients must be a junior, senior, or graduate student in related fields in the College of Science at USU. Recipients must demonstrate academic achievement, financial need, and personal Integrity.The student will be awarded a cash prize.
James E. Brown Scholarship. Awarded to either a graduate or undergraduate student, the scholarship rotates annually among the colleges of Business, Engineering, and Science. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Oscar Wood Cooley Scholarship. A scholarship awarded to an outstanding junior or senior having a major within the College of Science. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Dominion Energy Scholarship in the College of Science. Provides assistance to an outstanding science student majoring in computer science, geology, or other physical sciences. Preference be given to students in need of financial aid. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Seely-Hinkley Scholarship. Awarded annually to an outstanding junior or senior with a major in the College of Science. Two scholarships awarded are based on superior performance and financial need. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Theodore M. Burton Scholarship. Awarded annually to an outstanding junior or senior with a major in the College of Science. Recipients will be chosen on the basis of demonstrated academic achievement and financial need. Consideration shall be given to female and minority students. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Biology Scholarships
Apply for 2020-2021 Biology Department scholarships via AwardSpring before February 28, 2021.
Available Biology Scholarships
Datus M. Hammond Memorial Scholarship. Awarded based upon character, and professional promise, the award can be made to undergraduate or graduate students in biology. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Department of Biology Scholarship. Awarded annually to biology majors, this scholarship is contingent upon good performance during the academic year. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Eldon J. Gardner Undergraduate Research Award. Awarded annually to a student who is doing some sort of genetics project in association with one of the faculty in the Biology Department. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
John R. Simmons Endowed Scholarship.Available to junior or senior students majoring in biology and showing scholastic achievement, personal integrity, and financial need. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Pepper Murray Scholarship. Awarded to familiarize pre-med and pre-dental students with business management concepts and practices that are a fundamental part of operating a successful medical practice. Recipients will be junior or seniors majoring in pre-health, and demonstrate a strong commitment to attending medical or dental school. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Richard J. and Marion A. Shaw Scholarship. Awarded to students majoring in biology with a interest in plant biology who demonstrate high academic achievement, superior potential, and personal integrity. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Sedley and Pearl Stanford Memorial Scholarship.To assist undergraduate students seeking a degree in biology, preferably with the intention of a career in ornithology or entomology. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Thomas L. Bahler Scholarship. Awarded annually to students in the Department of Biology with special emphasis for students preparing for a health professions. This award is generally made to a pre-health student with a biology major. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Apply for Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry scholarships via Award Spring :
Available Chem + Biochem Scholarships
Garth L. Lee Scholarship: Three awards will be given to departmental chemistry and biochemistry majors who have demonstrated outstanding command of chemical science and have a demonstrated financial need. One award will go to each of the following:
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A freshman transitioning to sophomore
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A sophomore transitioning to junior
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A junior transitioning to senior
George H. and Billie Bush Emert Scholarship: One award will be given to an outstanding chemistry major transitioning from the junior to senior year. The recipient will receive a scholarship for one semester of full in-state tuition and fees.
R. Gaurth Hansen Scholarship: This scholarship is given to a chemistry major with a commitment to become a high school chemistry teacher. The recipient will receive $10,000 per academic year as long as they meet eligibility requirements, for up to six years, until such time as they complete the necessary coursework for the chemistry degree and teachers’ certification.
ACS-HACH Land Grant Undergraduate Scholarship: Awarded to a student who is financially disadvantaged. Requires short essay on how this scholarship would positively impact your study of CS. Include how you will help the next generation of financially disadvantaged students once you are established in your career.
Computer Science
Apply for Computer Science Department scholarships via the CS Scholarship Application before February 26, 2021:
Available Computer Science Scholarships
First Gen Scholarship: Awarded to a student who will be the first in their immediate family (including parents/guardians) to earn a college degree. Requires a short essay on what effect earning a degree in Computer Science will have on your family and society. Describe your family background and how you came to be the first to pursue a college degree.
Women in CS Scholarship: Awarded to a female student in CS. Requires a short essay on your experience as a woman majoring in CS and what you will do to encourage the next generation of girls to pursue degrees in CS and STEM.
Spectrum Scholarship: Awarded to a student from an underrepresented or disadvantaged group. Requires a short essay on what qualifies you for this award. Include your experience majoring in CS and what you will do to encourage the next generation of underrepresented students to pursue degrees in CS and STEM.
Financial Need Scholarship: Awarded to a student who is financially disadvantaged. Requires short essay on how this scholarship would positively impact your study of CS. Include how you will help the next generation of financially disadvantaged students once you are established in your career.
Lindsay and Julia Rawlins Scholarship: Awarded to one student who is registered as a full time student and is currently working on an undergraduate degree in CS.
Wendell Pope Scholarship: Awarded to one student who is of good character and shows promise in the field.
Rex Hurst Scholarship: Awarded on the basis of academic merit and demonstrated potential in the area of CS.
Stephen and Vicki Allan: Requires a minimum GPA of 3.3. Awarded on the basis of academic merit and demonstrated potential in the area of computer science.
Geosciences Scholarships
Apply for Department of Geosciences scholarships before March 1, 2020:
Available Geosciences Scholarships
Beryl & Tura Springer Memorial Scholarship. Awarded to a junior or senior student who has declared a geology major. Recipient must have demonstrated academic achievement. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Clyde T. Hardy Scholarship. Awarded every other year to an outstanding undergraduate geology major in support of geology camp. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
David Rider Memorial Scholarship. Awarded every year to an outstanding junior or senior geology major. Selection based on academic achievement and financial need. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Donald W. Fiesinger Graduating Senior Outstanding Citizen Award. Awarded annually to a student who is a declared geology major with senior-level standing, be graduating or planning to graduate during the current academic or calendar year, and be registered as an undergraduate at the time of the award. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Intermountain Power Association Scholarship. IPA scholarships are for junior or senior geology or engineering majors, with preference given to students from USU Eastern and to those who express interest in the study of coal technologies. IPA scholarships are administered by USU Student Services. Go to the USU AwardSpring website to log in, find, and complete the application. Applications are accepted from January 1 to March 31 each year.
John M. Branch Scholarship. Awarded every other year to an outstanding undergraduate geology major. Intention is to give the award to a geology major based on “interest and aptitude” in geology. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Peter T. Kolesar Scholarship. Awarded to a matriculated, upper-division undergraduate in good standing pursuing a major in the Department of Geosciences. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Thomas A. Riemondy Scholarship. Awarded to an outstanding undergraduate geology major who is not a resident of Utah. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Mathematics and Statistics Scholarships
Apply for Mathematics and Statistics scholarships via AwardSpring before March 16, 2020. Additional information is available on the Math+Stats website.
Available Math + Stats Scholarships
Department of Mathematics and Statistics Scholarship. Annual cash awards are given to outstanding students majoring in mathematics or statistics.
Joe and Carletta Elich Scholarship. Annual cash awards to outstanding students majoring in mathematics, mathematics education, or statistics.
Nevill C. and Annie P. Hunsaker Scholarship Award. Awarded to high school seniors who will attend USU and major in mathematics or statistics, or to USU students enrolled in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Generally four-year awards carrying cash payments for the first two years, with some additional support provided through special work opportunities during the last two years.
Sharon Lee Gardner Ellis Memorial Scholarship. Annual cash award given to a student majoring in mathematics education who has the potential to challenge, inspire, and teach young mathematics students.
Physics Awards and Fellowships
The Physics Department annually offers a number of endowed fellowships and awards. Students may apply for fellowships to support their research during the summer months. Award recipients are selected and there is no application process.
Physics Awards
Gene Adams Graduate Scholar Award. Awarded to a graduate student in physics who has demonstrated academic achievement and personal integrity.
Dr. Howard L. Blood Undergraduate and Graduate Fellowship in Physics. Recipients of the Dr. Howard L. Blood Undergraduate and Graduate Fellowship in Physics should be physics majors in good standing entering their junior or senior year and anticipating advanced studies in physics, or students entering or continuing their education in graduate studies in physics. Preference will be given to physics students with financial need from disadvantaged financial backgrounds and/or physics students from historically underrepresented populations at USU. Applications will be solicited annually in early spring for the ensuing summer.
Farrell and Ann Edwards Endowment. Awarded to undergraduate and/or graduate students who exemplify Professor Edwards commitment to research and teaching of physics.
Charles & Leah Hendricks Award. Awarded annually to juniors having declared a major in Physics. The award shall be based on academic merit, along with professional potential and personal integrity. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
David and Terry Peak Outstanding Achievement Award in Physics.Awarded annually to undergraduate and graduate students majoring physics, in recognition of outstanding academic, research, teaching, or service achievement. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Lawrence R. and Abeline Megill Award. “The Lawrence R. and Abelina Megill Scholarship is awarded annually to one student with junior standing and a declared major in physics. The scholarship shall be made on the basis of academic merit. Consideration may also be given to applicants from groups underrepresented in higher education.”
O. Harry Otteson Award. Annual award given to a physics major achieving the highest score in general physics. The student will be awarded a cash prize.
Student Involvement
Curate your college experience by engaging in new experiences. Utah State University is full of opportunities to get involved for everyone. Students can volunteer, research, and plan events, all while enhancing resumes, developing frienships, and gaining new skills.
College Ambassadors
College of Science Ambassadors represent the college on campus and across Utah, including at administrative, recruitment, and outreach events. Applications to join the ambassador team open annually in February or March. Students interested in applying are encouraged to contact current ambassadors for further information.
Science Student Council
The Science Student Council represents students in the College of Science as part of the USU Student Association and the College. Headed by the elected USUSA Science Senator the council plans the annual "College of Science Week" that takes place annually during November. Applications to join this council open in April.
Clubs at USU
College of Science students can get involved with a number of departmental clubs which focus on scientific competitions or events within specific fields of study. Alternatively, more-general clubs are open to students with broad interests through the Utah State University Student Association.
Undergraduate Research
USU offers many ways to get involved with research during student's undergraduate years. Students are encouraged to contact their department's Undergraduate Research Coordinator, or to reach out to professors they are interested in working with. For information about potential funding options, visit http://rgs.usu.edu/urco/.
Service Center
The USU Val R. Christensen Service Center helps students become actively involved with serving students and the community. Students are encouraged to give back through service with one of the 30+ organizations within the Service Center, including Aggie Health, Best Buddies USU, and Students Together Ending Poverty.
Career Services
The Career Services Center at USU is a great resource for assisting with job searches. Their team offers USU students help with finding job openings, preparing for the application and interview processes, as well as other important assistance relating to job and graduate school preparation.
Further Links
Looking for something else? Here's a list of other helpful links that may have the information you're looking for: