The Natural Sciences Department includes multidisciplinary programs in biology, chemistry, physics, geology, geography and geographic information systems (GIS). The curriculum focuses on using scientific inquiry as a way of knowing and applying scientific knowledge to societal issues of local, regional, and global importance.
Through a recent partnership with the University of Minnesota-Duluth, the department has added a dual degree in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering program, in which students start at UW-Superior and seamlessly transition to the University of Minnesota-Duluth to complete their degree.
Faculty Research and Mentorship
Faculty members have diverse teaching and research experiences that afford students research opportunities in the field and laboratory. Areas of specialty include microplastics research, geological and environmental research, honeybee preservation and ecology research, and more. These opportunities are often only found at much larger R1 universities, but at UW-Superior students can pursue their own original research or join studies being conducted by professors in a small, supportive environment – the ideal setting to prepare for graduate study and careers in the natural sciences field.
Natural Sciences Opportunities and Resources
The Natural Sciences Department offers a variety of opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning, research, and professional development. From scholarships to research experiences and state-of-the-art facilities, these resources are designed to help students explore their interests, gain practical skills, and prepare for careers or graduate study in the sciences. Explore each section below to learn more about what’s available to you.
Students in the Natural Sciences Department have access to a variety of scholarships to support their academic journey. Scholarships help recognize outstanding achievement, foster research opportunities, and make pursuing a degree in the sciences more affordable.
Students in the Natural Sciences Department have abundant opportunities to conduct original undergraduate research under the mentorship of faculty and staff. Experiential learning is woven into the curriculum from the first semester to the last. Students can also choose to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, which provides a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to spend the summer working on a research or scholarly project with the support of a faculty or staff mentor. Students submit proposals for either a developmental project or a fellowship.
One of the crowning jewels of the university is the Lake Superior Research Institute, which conducts environmental research and provides services that directly benefit the people, industries, and natural resources of the Upper Midwest, the Great Lakes Region, and beyond. The LSRI provides non-traditional learning and applied research opportunities for undergraduate students and fosters environmental education and outreach in the Twin Ports and surrounding communities.
The LSRI has employed nearly 600 undergraduate students and provided research experiences for countless other students at UW-Superior. Many of the students who have participated in research projects have gone on to pursue post-graduate education or careers in the sciences.
All majors in the Natural Sciences Department complete and publicly present a senior capstone experience. Capstone projects may take the form of an individual research project—often conducted under the mentorship of a faculty member—or an internship that includes a project completed with guidance from a professional mentor.
Students frequently present their work at regional and national discipline-specific conferences, as well as at Research in the Rotunda, an annual research event held each spring in Madison.
In addition, many students present their work at the Natural Sciences Undergraduate Research Symposium, held twice each year on the second-to-last Friday of the fall and spring semesters.
The symposium provides an opportunity for UW-Superior science majors to showcase their capstone experiences to peers, faculty, the university community and the public. It highlights the depth of undergraduate research happening within the department and celebrates the work students complete as they prepare for graduate study or careers in the sciences.
The Natural Sciences Department offers multidisciplinary programs that prepare students for careers in research, education, and applied sciences. Students can choose from:
- Biology – Explore cellular biology, ecology, genetics, and organismal studies. Opportunities include lab and field research, internships, and the Urban Honey Bee Project.
- Chemistry – Gain hands-on experience in analytical, organic, inorganic, and biochemistry. Dual degree option in Chemistry & Chemical Engineering with University of Minnesota-Duluth.
- Physics – Study classical and modern physics, astronomy, and computational methods, with access to our telescope observatory.
- Geology – Engage in field and laboratory research in environmental and geological sciences.
- Geography & GIS – Learn about physical geography, human-environment interaction, and geospatial technologies.
Students can tailor their programs with electives, internships, and research experiences, preparing them for graduate study or careers in science.
Laboratories
Barstow Hall Science Building houses laboratories that include modern equipment to give students the tools needed to learn laboratory techniques, conduct research and prepare for future careers. These include nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectroscopy, laser optics and biotechnology instrumentation. Lake Superior Research Institute (LSRI) laboratories are also located within the building, providing students with employment and internship opportunities.
Telescope Observatory
At the top of Barstow Hall, a telescope observatory provides students and community members the opportunity to study astronomy and cosmology.
Oexemann Greenhouse
The Oexemann Greenhouse invites students and visitors to enjoy tropical and subtropical plants throughout the year. The greenhouse manager always has time to visit with students and visitors. For biology majors interested in plants, the Oexemann Greenhouse is a must stop on your tour. Tours can be arranged by calling the Science Office at 715-394-8322.
Sadie Ann Education and Research Vessel
Sadie Ann is a state-of-the-art catamaran designed with a hybrid engine that will be an important addition for research and educational programs. The vessel will enable Lake Superior Research Institute (LSRI) to continue and expand freshwater research initiatives, as well as provide opportunities for students and community members to connect with Lake Superior.
Honeybee Apiary
UW-Superior is home to the Urban Honey Bee Project and an apiary with over half a million bees. Under the leadership of Dr. Edward Burkett, students interested in studying the bees and conducting research begin by taking an introductory course called Honey Bee Biology and Scientific Beekeeping, in which they learn principles of beekeeping and bee biology. If interested, they then have the opportunity to continue their studies through research and work in the apiary. They also join Burkett in providing information about beekeeping and honey bee preservation to the broader community.
While researching colleges, I came across UW-Superior. I wanted to attend a university with a smaller campus, where I could get involved with everyone. I’ve found so many opportunities here that will help me succeed in my career.
At UWS, small class sizes were nice to have opportunities to work with professors either for extra help or to participate in a research project. I would not have had the same experiences at a large university.
My experience in the Behavioral Neuroscience program has helped me better understand my overall major. The instructors have gone above and beyond in fueling my passion for psychology and the study of the brain and its behaviors.
I have had the privilege of working with several faculty members on various research projects, which have been very rewarding in guiding my future career plans. Small class sizes make it easy to get to know your professors in a way that would be difficult at larger universities.
I chose to attend UW-Superior for its wonderful biology pre-med program, which has been everything I have wanted. The professors have gone above and beyond to make sure that I succeed in my program and that I am set up for med school after receiving my bachelor”s degree. In a small school, you are not just a number, you will have a personal connection with your professors.
Meet the Department
Contact the Natural Sciences Department
Have questions about programs, research opportunities, or facilities? Our faculty and staff are happy to help.
Natural Sciences Department
Barstow Hall, Room 202 University of Wisconsin–Superior
715‑394‑8322
[email protected]