School of Mathematics and Sciences

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Chair: Dr. Stanton Belford
Office: Andrews Science Building, Room 99
Telephone: (931) 424-4621
E-mail: sbelfor2@utsouthern.edu

Professor: Cole
Associate Professors: Aust, Belford, Hanes, Mattingly, Wakefield
Assistant Professors: Badolato, Cockson, Eskew, Laughlin, Mattiello, Scherr
Instructors: Pewitt, Parish, Richardson, Rogers, T. Williams
Adjunct Faculty: Eubanks, Sandusky, Tyler, M. Williams

The mission of the School of Mathematics and Sciences is to offer courses and programs that assist students in developing inquisitive and analytical minds required to appreciate the mechanics of the world and its environments. The school encourages scholarship, skeptical inquiry, and the free exchange of ideas within the classroom and laboratory. The faculty of math and natural sciences is committed to excellence in teaching and learning and to working closely with other Schools in fulfilling the mission of the University of Tennessee Southern in providing undergraduate educational programs grounded in the liberal arts and sciences that are designed to prepare students for future careers and lives of continued learning.

The School of Mathematics and Sciences includes the academic disciplines of biology, chemistry, computer information systems, mathematics, and physical science, offering bachelor degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Information Systems, Cybersecurity, and Mathematics. Students majoring in Biology can choose a concentration in Wildlife Biology and Ecology, Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnology, or General Biology. Both the Biology and Chemistry degree programs can prepare students to enter graduate or professional programs or to work in entry-level positions in different areas their major. The Mathematics major prepares students to enter graduate school, work in mathematical modeling in industry, or work in other quantitative fields. The Cybersecurity major includes courses in mathematics, computer science, criminal justice, and business, and it prepares graduates for multiple careers in cybersecurity, including both technical and managerial paths. Students majoring in Computer Information Systems can work in multiple careers. Any of these degree programs can prepare students to enter graduate or professional programs or to work in an industry or research setting.

The School of Mathematics and Sciences also offers programs in secondary licensure for Mathematics and Biology.

Students may also minor in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Cybersecurity, and Sustainability.

Preparing for a Career in the Health Sciences (Pre-Med, etc.)

Students interested in careers in the health professions (dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, veterinary science, physical therapy, etc.) should select a major as early as possible and work towards the bachelor’s degree. Some professional schools accept students with fewer than four years of college work, but most prefer students who possess the bachelor’s degree. A student should be familiar with the specific requirements of the professional school to which he/she plans to apply. Completion of these programs at UT Southern, however, does not assure admission to a particular professional program. Admission to these programs is competitive and is determined by the respective institution’s and program’s own criteria.

Requirements vary with the school and program, but the general requirements of most professional schools include the following courses in addition to a strong liberal arts and sciences core: General Chemistry with laboratory (8 hours), Biology with laboratory (8 hours), Organic Chemistry with laboratory (8 hours), and Physics with laboratory (8 hours). Other suggested courses include: Human Anatomy and Physiology (8 hours), Biochemistry (3 hours), Algebra/Trig or Calculus (3-6 hours), Microbiology (4 hours), Statistics (3 hours), Cell Biology (4 hours), and Immunology (3 hours).

Students interested in a major within the School of Mathematics and Sciences should consult the appropriate program coordinator as listed below:
Biology: Shanna Hanes
Chemistry: Shanna Hanes
Computer Information Systems: Laurie Pewitt
Cybersecurity: Tania Williams
Mathematics: Jennifer Aust

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