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Department of Life Sciences

Our students have gone on to be highly successful in their careers, whether it be as a biologist, medical professional, or teacher.

About the Department

In the Life Sciences Department, we foster a climate of intellectual curiosity. As a student here, you’ll develop crucial laboratory skills that are applicable to a variety of science and health fields. Our science labs are among the best in the state and are used regularly by a range of classes to complete a rigorous science curriculum under the supervision of our distinguished faculty. The Carhart Science Building features biological, physical, and chemical science laboratories with cutting-edge equipment, while our human cadaver lab provides students the opportunity to learn about human anatomy and physiology beyond the books.

Many of our students go on to medical and dental school, as well as various other health programs such as physician assistant and physical therapy. Our faculty frequently hear back from graduates who praise the preparation they received at Wayne State College.

 

Rural Health Opportunities Program (RHOP)

A cooperative program between Wayne State College and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) that recruits and educates students from rural Nebraska to become health care providers and return to a rural community. You’ll receive a full tuition scholarship at Wayne State College with guaranteed admission to UNMC.

Learn More About RHOP

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“I chose to attend Wayne State College because it is very affordable. I also wanted to experience the brand new science department where my classes and labs would be held. I enjoy my major because what I learn in the classroom is applicable to real life and my own body. The coursework allows me to balance my studies and absorb as much knowledge as possible.” 

 

Eric Pfiefer

Major: Biology, Chemistry
Hometown: Madison, Neb.

Life Sciences Programs

Choose from our majors in the life sciences, or enhance your education by adding on a second major or minor. Explore your options here.

Program Name Bachelor's Pre-Professional or Affiliate Master's Minor Education Field Endorsement Education Subject Endorsement Supplemental Endorsement
Biology              
Biology Education (7-12)              
Chiropractic (Pre-Chiropractic)              
Conservation Biology              
Dental Hygiene (Pre-Dental Hygiene)              
Dentistry (Pre-Dentistry)              
Environmental Studies              
Health Sciences (Life Sciences)              
Interdisciplinary Studies              
Medical Laboratory Science              
Medicine (Pre-Medicine)              
Mortuary Science              
Nursing (Pre-Nursing)              
Occupational Therapy (Pre-Occupational Therapy)              
Osteopathic Medicine (Pre-Osteopathic Medicine)              
Physical Therapy (Pre-Physical Therapy)              
Physician Assistant (Pre-Physician Assistant)              
Plant Biology-Ecology and Management              
Podiatry (Pre-Podiatric Medicine)              
Respiratory Therapy              
Veterinary Medicine (Pre-Veterinary Medicine)              
EXPLORE ALL MAJORS

“The Life Sciences Department at Wayne State College welcomes students who are pursuing careers in science and health care. Our rigorous program prepares students in the use of modern equipment and the latest technologies. Students benefit from learning in smaller groups where professors can devote time to personalized instruction. Throughout our program students learn important concepts, how to think and analyze data critically, and they develop skill sets that prepare them for their future.”

 

Ron Loggins, Ph.D.

Department Chair
Professor of Biology

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, and more.

Student clubs and organizations

Clubs and Organizations

WSC Service-Learning

Service-Learning

Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.

Biology and Chemistry Student Activities

Opportunities

Conduct your own research and present your findings at conferences such as The Wildlife Society, American Society of Microbiology, The American Association for the Advancement of Science, and The North American Prairie Conference. Help judge at the Nebraska Science Bowl and Jr. Academy of Science Fairs, and visit area science labs

Student Teaching and Clinical Practice for Education Majors

Internships

We encourage all students to complete an internship before graduating, to gain experience in this field of study. Before graduating, you’ll have a chance to work with local agencies. Career Services is also available to help you find the best internship opportunities.

Learn from the Best

Our faculty are accomplished, with 85% of our full-time faculty having the highest degree in their field. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in a personalized setting with a friendly atmosphere.

Meet the Faculty Visit the School of Natural and Social Sciences

Life Sciences Scholarships

In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships for life sciences students.

Apply for All Scholarships Tuition and Aid

Take the Next Step

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