University of New England

Degree: Bachelor of Science with a major in Laboratory Science

College: Arts and Sciences

Department: Chemistry and Physics

Contact: Dr. Larry C. Thompson (Interim Chair) LThompson2@une.edu

Chemistry and physics are fundamental sciences that touch every aspect of our lives and the world around us. Chemistry is the study of matter: its chemical and physical properties, the chemical and physical changes it undergoes, and the energy changes that accompany those processes. Chemistry often is referred to as the central science; it rests upon the foundation of mathematics and physics and in turn is the essential basis for the life sciences such as biology and medicine. Chemistry is largely an experimental science, and has applications in such diverse areas of research as the development of new drugs, the search for solutions to problems of environmental pollution, and the derivation of alternative energy sources. Much cutting-edge research in biology and medicine is being carried out at the level of atoms and molecules, the particles of matter upon which the study of chemistry is based.

Physics, too, is the study of matter and energy, viewed from a different perspective. To understand living systems and the universe in which we live requires an understanding of the chemical and physical principles that operate within them.

In addition to offering majors in chemistry, chemistry/secondary education, biochemistry and laboratory science, and a minor in chemistry, the department fills a significant role for students in other programs through its introductory courses in chemistry and physics.  The department also administers the pre-pharmacy program.  Because of the fundamental roles of chemistry and physics in the biological, environmental, and health sciences, students in these programs benefit from the conceptual, quantitative, problem-solving, and communication skills stressed in the introductory courses, which form the foundation for later courses in the students' majors.

The laboratory science (LS) major is designed to prepare graduates for work in a variety of modern laboratory settings, ranging from biotechnology labs to quality control labs to academic, medical, or industrial research labs. The program includes a broad spectrum of laboratory courses in chemistry, biochemistry, and biology, so that the graduate will have as comprehensive a repertoire of lab skills as possible. With careful selection of electives, LS graduates wishing to become medical technologists will be well-prepared for acceptance into accredited hospital internship programs in medical technology.  Recent LS graduates have been successful in pursuing careers in industry and post-baccalaureate graduate studies.

See Undergraduate Admissions

Program Standards
A minimum grade of C- must be achieved in all required science and mathematics courses used toward graduation in laboratory science, and a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average in the sciences is a requirement for graduation.

Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This Catalog documents the academic programs, policies, and activities of the University of New England for the 2008-2009 academic year. The information contained herein is accurate as of date of publication August 1, 2008.

The University of New England reserves the right in its sole judgment to make changes of any nature in its programs, calendar, or academic schedule whenever it is deemed necessary or desirable, including changes in course content, the rescheduling of classes with or without extending the academic term, canceling of scheduled classes or other academic activities, in any such case giving such notice thereof as is reasonably practicable under the circumstances.

While each student may work closely with an academic advisor, he or she must retain individual responsibility for meeting requirements in this catalog and for being aware of any changes in provisions or requirements.