students in a field with notebooks

Science

Choosing a science program empowers you with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, paving the way for a diverse range of careers where innovation and research thrive. Whether you're passionate about making a lasting impact in fields like environmental science, agricultural science, geology, or science education, you'll gain the tools needed to adapt and excel in the evolving job market.

Careers in Science

As a professional in the science arena, you will find a variety of ways to positively impact the world around you. Working hands-on in the field, conducting research and serving students in the classroom are just a few examples of this dynamic job pathway.

  • Soil Scientist
  • Conservation Scientist
  • Water Quality Scientist
  • Food Scientist and Technologist
  • Field Seismologist
  • Farming
  • Geologist
  • Science Education

Potential Salary

Median Salary $78,280

The median annual wage for Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Science Degrees at MSU

Agronomy, Bachelor of Applied Science

Gain hands-on expertise in crop and soil sciences, precision agriculture, and sustainable farm management. Master plant science, weed control, seed technology, and soil conservation while learning the business of farming—from planning to marketing. With a focus on real-world applications, our program prepares you for a thriving career in modern agriculture. Ready to cultivate success? 

Chemistry Teaching, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Teaching provides students with dynamic classroom and lab experiences while preparing them to translate their learning in a school setting. This program satisfies licensure-to-practice standards for Minnesota and may satisfy standards for other states or US territories. This degree is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (asbmb.org) and the American Chemical Society (acs.org). 

Environmental Science, Bachelor of Science 

The Bachelor of Science in Food Science Technology is designed to prepares students for entry into production, quality assurance and management; sanitation; research and development; and laboratory analysis opportunities. 

Food Science Technology, Bachelor of Science  

The Bachelor of Science in Food Science Technology is designed to prepares students for entry into production, quality assurance and management; sanitation; research and development; and laboratory analysis opportunities. 

Geology, Bachelor of Science 

The Bachelor of Science in Geology prepares students for careers in the Geoscience and Environmental Science job sectors. Geoscientists study Earth’s rocks, minerals, soil, and water, and work in environments that range from the outdoors to laboratories and offices. Occupations include environmental scientist, hydrogeologist, geophysicist, paleontologist, and more.  Geology careers require a bachelor’s degree, with some specializations requiring graduate study. This degree also prepares graduates for Professional Geologist licensure, which offers additional opportunities for advancement in Geology careers. 

Geology, Minor 

The Geology minor is an introduction to the field and is the perfect complement to an anthropology, biology, chemistry, geography, or physics degree. 

Environmental Geology, Certificate 

The Environmental Geology Certificate is designed to develop a core component of skills in geology that are relevant to solving environmental problems. Courses within the certificate place an emphasis on understanding and solving problems associated with our regional geologic environment. 

Life Science Teaching 5-12, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Life Science Teaching allows students to utilize their passion for the natural world in the classroom. This program satisfies licensure-to-practice standards for Minnesota and may satisfy standards for other states or US territories. The State of Minnesota grants science teacher licensure for grades 9-12 Life Science.

Physics Teaching, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Physics Teaching provides a strong foundational knowledge of physics laws and principles, while pairing with an educational curriculum to prepare students for working in a school setting. This program satisfies licensure-to-practice standards for Minnesota and may satisfy standards for other states or US territories. The Physics Teaching Bachelor of Science prepares students to teach physics in middle and high school settings.

Other Science Programs

image of Biology students learning about the heart

Biology

A critical understanding and awareness of cellular and molecular physiology is necessary for future leaders pursuing careers in healthcare, translational, or essential scientific discovery.

two students in a chemistry lab

Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of matter and the properties of their makeup. Our program exposes students to a variety of relevant topics in chemistry, such as inorganic, organic, physical, theoretical, materials, environmental, and industrial branches.

professor showing two students soil samples

Earth Science

Earth Systems Science is a STEM field that utilizes our understanding of the various interconnected systems on Earth to address major environment problems of our time.

Related Programs

Women agronomist in field.

Agribusiness and Food Innovation, Bachelor of Science

The A​gribusiness and Food Innovation major shapes future agribusiness leaders by building their knowledge and skills in agriculture and food, with hands-on learning and leadership development in the field. This degree is part of the College of Business, an accredited member of AACSB International-The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

Dietitian writing diet plan, view from above on the table with different healthy products and drawings on the topic of healthy eating

Nutrition, Food and Dietetics

In the Dietetics, Food & Nutrition programs students will gain knowledge needed for careers in health, fitness, dietetics, and food-related industries, with opportunities for supervised practice and graduate studies.

Biology Department

College of

Science, Engineering and Technology

Become part of the next generation of leaders, innovators, and researchers as a student at Minnesota State Mankato’s College of Science, Engineering and Technology. Whether you're fascinated by the natural world, modern engineering, or advancements in technology, you belong here.

Learn More About the College of Science, Engineering and Technology