Biology is the science that studies life. It is multidisciplinary because it includes many different fields, ranging from cell biology and genetics to evolution, plant science and ecology. Some careers are applied, using biological knowledge to address problems in society and industry, while others are in research, advancing knowledge to produce new solutions.

Chemistry is what chemists do - develop the molecular understanding of matter and design new materials that are needed for modern technological society. Chemists run industrial and research organizations for production of agricultural and consumer goods. They are central to efforts to develop a modern health-based society. Chemists are also specialists in the analysis of environmental problems.

Clinical laboratory science is aimed at quality performance of clinical laboratory procedures on biological samples from patients. The results of these procedures provide important patient data that aid the physician in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

The clinical laboratory science curriculum offered at IUS provides a broadly based background including specific chemistry, mathematics, and biological science requirements, as well as the opportunity to elect courses from the liberal arts. The curriculum of the clinical laboratory science program is fully accredited by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation.

Computer science is the chief discipline for teaching engineering principles and the tools used in software applications development. Training students in these principles and the use of software development tools is the primary goal of Computer Science at IU Southeast. Both associate and baccalaureate degrees are offered in Computer Science. These degree programs are integrated to allow full-time students to complete an associate degree in two years with the option of completing the baccalaureate in another two years. Each program recognizes the need to provide the understanding and knowledge of computer science appropriate for the varied careers available.

The B.S. degrees in computer science (mathematics/science option) and secondary education (teaching major in mathematics) are quite similar to the B.S. in mathematics. Since both of these majors require a significant number of the major courses in the mathematics major, it is quite easy to obtain a double major in mathematics and either of these majors.

This 25 to 29 credit hour program prepares science majors or graduates for employment in the environmental field. It provides skills such as field collecting, water sampling, report and scientific writing, soil sampling, regulatory policies, chemical and analytical methods, and research methods. Students must be in a degree program in the natural sciences including biology, chemistry, geoscience, or physics OR have a four year degree in one of those areas. Once admitted, the student should remediate any prerequisites. Some of these can be taken simultaneously with the required courses.

Geography studies people and environment from the viewpoint of spatial processes and spatial relationships. It analyzes the chains of linked processes that bind human and physical systems effectively together. As an integrating science, geography utilizes various branches of knowledge to discover meanings for the complex relationships between phenomena and often functions as a bridge that brings the physical and social sciences together.

At the core of the health care delivery system is health information. Whether retrieved manually or electronically, medical records provide the medical information necessary for all aspects of patient care. Health caregivers utilize this valuable information, which is also used for generating statistical data, financial reporting, billing and legal documentation.

The medical profession is always growing and changing. The medical record professional compiles complete, accurate medical information and establishes and maintains medical record systems.

Informatics encompasses the art, science and human dimensions of information technology (IT). People who are successful in informatics are often both right- and left-brained, able to comprehend the technical aspects of computer systems, and apply them in new and creative ways.

Informatics specialists study and develop new uses for information technology in all types of settings. People working in informatics find themselves working in a variety of fields, including telecommunications, banking and finance, media, biology, chemistry, dentistry, medicine, entertainment, life sciences research, social studies, and many others.

In informatics, people typically apply their computer skills in a more practical, less theoretical manner than other IT professionals. They are generally more research-oriented and less technical, focusing more on how the technology will be used and the people who will use it.

Dr. Richard Courant, one of the outstanding modern mathematicians and the founder of the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University, has said that "mathematics as an expression of the human mind reflects the active will, the contemplative, and the desire for aesthetic perfection. Its basic elements are logic and intuition, analysis and construction, generality and individuality."

This is a traditional view held for a long time by most mathematicians. However, the role of mathematics gradually has expanded over the years to include many areas of application today. Courant's basic elements have evolved into such areas as biostatistics, ecological differential equations, behavioral sciences, systems analysis, operational research, linear programming and model theory.

Indiana University Southeast offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics which provides a sound background for students who plan on studying for advanced degrees in mathematics, as well as for students who plan on following careers in industry, business or education.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, or as a dental hygienist or physician's assistant, IU Southeast offers undergraduate courses to prepare you for post-graduate studies. Entrance requirements to these professional schools vary at different institutions, so preparing early is strongly recommended. All information currently applies to such schools in the Indiana University system. If you are interested in any of these programs, contact an advisor for more information.