Overview
Program Description
The School of Natural, Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences offers its students seven baccalaureate degree programs in science: a B.S. in Biology, a B.S. in Exercise Science, a B.S. in Forensic Science, a B.S. in Health Science, a B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science, a B.S. in Nursing and a B.S. in Public Health. The Biology program also offers concentrations in forensic science, environmental science and pre-healthcare. The School is committed to enhancing the skills of the students of Centenary University in the methods of scientific inquiry, problem-solving and hands-on research. The Medical Laboratory Science program is offered in collaboration with nearby hospital systems. Accordingly, this Department is offering STEM core courses that all students are required to complete as part of their baccalaureate programs.
BS in Biology
The Bachelor of Science program in Biology is designed to provide students with a broad and basic foundation in the fundamentals of biology. A B.S. in Biology is a recognized prerequisite for graduate studies in the varied fields of biology, veterinary school, medical school and dental school, as well as the fields of equine science and psychology. The student is prepared for employment in such career areas as business, health care, research, and education. Each student may have the opportunity to participate in research projects within the institution or can receive training in areas including the pharmaceutical, environmental, or medical sciences through internships. A concentration in Forensic Science for Biology majors is also offered that combines the benefits of both the biology and the criminal justice programs, allowing students interested in both to pursue new career options.
BS in Forensic Science
Forensic Science is the application of science to the investigation of crime. A crime could be against individuals or against society. The forensic science industry has placed an increasing demand for trained personnel with all levels of expertise. Competent and well‐trained science graduates experienced in both theoretical and hands‐on methods in forensic investigations are required to fill employment opportunities, either directly from an undergraduate or a graduate program.
The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science program emphasizes topics in analytical chemistry which are applicable in the modern forensic laboratory when identifying drugs and banned foreign substances in body fluids, biochemical assays, DNS analysis, use of separation methods, and appropriate ethical and legal considerations. The program requires a minimum GPA of 3.2 to enter.
BS in Exercise Science
The B.S. in Exercise Science at Centenary University provides students with an in-depth knowledge of physiology, exercise and human performance in the advancement of wellness education and heathy lifestyles. The study of Exercise Science consists of several overlapping disciplines, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, growth and development, exercise nutrition, measurement and evaluation. The program of study is designed to blend classroom instruction with practical experiential learning, and to prepare graduates for careers in clinical, corporate or community-based exercise/wellness programs. Graduates of this program will have completed the minimum prerequisites for most advanced degree programs in physical therapy and athletic training. An exercise science related internship is required for this degree and will provide an opportunity to increase the student's practical skillset.
BS in Health Science
The Health Science degree at Centenary University provides students with an interdisciplinary exposure to a wide variety of careers in the healthcare industry. In addition to the university core and fundamentals, the curriculum includes courses in human biology, psychology, sociology, public health, health care policy and health sciences. An internship in a healthcare field is required for graduation and provides a great opportunity to increase the student’s experiential learning. Upon completion of this program, students are ready to enter the workforce in healthcare or to continue toward an advanced degree in the health sciences. Centenary University achieved an applicant status with the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). ACOTE has provided a proposed MOT program launch date in 2025. The B.S. in health science program is the foundational degree to lead into the MOT and to other health science-related graduate programs, such as physician assistant.
Individuals who complete a B.S. in health science can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, research laboratories, public health organizations, rehabilitation facilities and government agencies. Job opportunities for graduates in health science would include non-clinical roles with direct patient interaction, such as a health journalist, community health educator or pharmaceutical sales representative. A few possible career pathways would include:
- Clinical health: occupational therapist, physical therapist, physician assistant, or dental hygienist
- Healthcare administration: Medical and health services manager, medical records technician, or health informatics specialist
- Public sector: Epidemiologist, public health officer, or health education trainer
BS in Medical Laboratory Science
The Medical Laboratory Science degree is offered in partnership with local hospital systems. The partnership provides a cost-effective program of study based on regional demand. Statewide demand for professionals with these credentials has continued to grow. The program offers 3.5 years of study on campus followed by clinical practice in the modern laboratory facilities of local hospitals, such as the Atlantic Health System. At the end of their program, graduates are allowed to take the ASCP registry exam. The Medical Laboratory Science program as of Fall 2020 is in the process of seeking accreditation by NAACLS. Graduates of this program seek work in hospitals, regional and national testing laboratories, veterinary labs, pharmaceutical, chemical and cosmetic industries, health agencies or continue their education towards advanced degrees.
BS in Nursing
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree provides nurses with a strong foundation for career advancement by focusing on nursing practice experience, leadership, research and ethics in healthcare. The program concludes with a capstone project that incorporates all of the elements learned throughout the clinical, practical and research experiences.
BS in Public Health
The Bachelor of Science in Public Health degree is a program integrated with specialized course in sociology, psychology, biology, health promotion and healthcare policy. This degree will prepare the student to complete an internship in both the junior and senior years. These internships in a public health sector will prepare the student to apply the knowledge and techniques acquired during the public health didactic courses to hands-on learning experiences. Upon completion of this program, students are primed to begin a career in an entry-level role in public health or to continue toward an advanced degree in mental health, medicine, environmental health or public health.
Biology Minor
Required Courses (24 credits)
Chemistry Minor
Required Courses (24 credits)
Students must take both the lecture and lab to complete this requirement
Two courses (8) credits from the following:
Students must take both the lecture and lab to fulfill this requirement
Environmental Science Minor
Required Courses (20 credits)
Two courses (8 credits) from the following, with at least one course at the 2000+ level:
Exercise Science Minor
Required Courses
Students must take both the lecture and lab for 4 credits
Forensic Science Minor
Required courses (24 credits)
One course (4 credits) from the following:
Public Health Minor
Required Courses (24 Credits)