The General Science Major| Degree Requirements
Course Descriptions | Back to Department List

Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science

The major in General Science is designed to meet the needs of students interested in technical writing, teaching at the elementary, middle school, or secondary level, entering careers that require a college degree but do not specify a subject area, or pursuing graduate programs that require a degree but do not specify a subject area (like law or business). It consists of a broad exposure to the sciences with some depth in one area. By the nature of these two degree programs, the student should be aware that careful advising is necessary.

Two degree programs are offered in General Science, the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts. In consultation with their advisor, students should choose the program most suited for their professional goals. In certain cases, it may be possible for a student to “customize” a program in General Science to meet specific career objectives. The basic requirement for such customized programs is that the BA or BS degree contain a level of breadth and depth that meets or exceeds that of the prescribed programs below.

The General Science program exposes students to a cross section of the fine equipment that supports the science program at ENC, from the fully networked computers to the wellequipped laboratories in physics, chemistry, and biology.

Department Objectives

1. To better understand the physical environment, including our role in it and responsibility to it, as God’s stewards.
2. To develop appreciation for and enjoyment of the world and the universe.
3. To develop appreciation for the historical development of the natural sciences and to recognize the impact of the sciences on our world view.
4. To develop a greater appreciation for the importance of skills in accurate observation, logical reasoning, and precise expression and to develop an objective attitude in scientific endeavors.
5. To increase understanding of the professional roles of scientists and mathematicians and to learn how they pursue knowledge.
6. To appreciate the complementary natures of mathematics and the natural sciences.
7. To foster an attitude of humility in the pursuit of science, recognizing that the scientific pursuits are part of the greater search for truth.
8. To develop techniques and specific skills in problem-solving appropriate to each discipline.
9. To be able to communicate subject matter of the discipline to peers.
10. To prepare adequately for graduate study.
11. To obtain sufficient training for employment in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, and the fields related to the programs of the Division of Natural Sciences.

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Requirements for a BS Degree in General Science

A total of 44 credit hours, in addition to the Liberal Arts Core Curriculum, is required for graduation. The laboratory science and math requirements in the Liberal Arts Core are waived for General Science majors. There is a comprehensive exam that must be taken in the senior year.

BI103-4 General Biology I and II
CH101-2 Introduction to General and Biological Chemistry I and II OR
CH103-4 General Chemistry I and II (recommended for certain career objectives)
Two courses MA118 or above: Introduction to Statistics, Pre-Calculus Math, Calculus I
Calculus II (also recommended for certain career objectives)
PY201-2 General Physics I and II
BI, CH, PY, GS499 or MA299 Independent Research/Project

Students must choose at least two courses above the introductory level in one department for a concentration in that discipline.

Requirements for a BA Degree in General Science

A total of 32 credit hours, in addition to the Liberal Arts Core Curriculum, is required for graduation. There is a comprehensive exam that must be taken in the senior year.

BI101 Principles of Biology OR
BI103-4 General Biology I and II (requires 36 credit hours total)
BI210 Earth Science
BI241 Nutrition
CH101-2 Introduction to General and Biological Chemistry I and II OR
CH103-4 General Chemistry I and II
MA101, MA118, MA122 or MA151:
Introduction to Math (highly recommended for education majors) OR
Introduction to Statistics or Pre-Calculus Math or Calculus I
PY101 Astronomy
BI, CH, PY, GS499 or MA299 Independent Research/Project

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Course Descriptions

GS420 Issues in Science and Religion (3 credits)
Examines the conversation between science and religion from historical, philosophical, and contemporary perspectives. Topics in this course are approached in an exploratory and intellectually humble way. Effort will be made to identify, understand, and appreciate a diversity of viewpoints on science and religion.
Prerequisites: CP320, six courses in the science division or permission of instructors

Other course descriptions are listed under appropriate department.

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General Science Program
Eastern Nazarene College | 23 East Elm Avenue
Quincy, Massachusetts 02170