SU Announces New Integrated Science Major

SALISBURY, MD---Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) academic and career paths are highly sought, but what if a student can’t decide on just one?

Salisbury University students with a passion for STEM won’t have to choose thanks to the creation of a new integrated science major in SU’s Richard A. Henson School of Science and Technology, the first in the University System of Maryland. 

“Integrated science graduates will have an opportunity to create their own STEM experience,” said Dr. Mark Muller, associate dean of the Henson School, who oversees the new major. “The program will provide students the skills needed to excel in different areas that they couldn’t or wouldn’t have time to cover otherwise.”

The major accommodates students who wish to develop programs of study in two or more STEM disciplines or create a major in a STEM area of study not offered by any department at SU. This allows students to create an individual and flexible major, with a foundation in science and technology, which is best suited to their interests or career goals.

“The addition of the major will help increase the retention and graduation of STEM majors, which is a strategic goal of SU, the region, and the State” said Dr. Michael Scott, dean of the Henson School. “Studies show that this is a growing and employable field, and multiple discipline experience is rare.” 

In addition to the specific Henson disciplines, students can combine courses in other disciplines such as environmental health science, environmental studies, exercise science, health science, information systems or medical laboratory science to focus on areas including but not limited to environmental monitoring, renewable energy, human biology, biomedical engineering, forensic science, health information technology and adaptive physical education technology.  

Students wishing to major in integrated science will be required to submit a proposal form for approval in order to officially declare the major. Students also will be expected to write a goal statement to show a rationale for the cohesion of the areas of study and describe any potential career goals suitable for the program proposal.  

For more information call 410-677-0023 or view the SU academic catalog.