School of Science
At Saint Mary’s College, we believe science is a human practice, shaped by human values and history and conducted in service to humanity.
The School of Science is dedicated to developing students into change agents, ready to tackle the most pressing problem of our time. Through a rigorous curriculum with a strong focus on experiential learning and real-world applications, you will be equipped for a wide range of careers in Natural Sciences, Psychology and Health Sciences.
We provide state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, academic and career advising tailored to your unique interests, numerous research opportunities, and a global network of researchers and scholars. Our small class sizes and an average student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1 foster a tight-knit learning community that persists long past graduation day. The School of Science offers an expansive array of undergraduate majors, minors, pre-professional curriculum, and graduate and certificate programs.
Curriculum
Students begin with fundamental science principles and liberal arts courses before moving on to intensive lab work, collaborative research with faculty, and mastery of current technology.
Research and Internships
Spend 10 weeks in close collaboration with a faculty advisor on a self-designed research project, or join summer research programs at colleges and universities across the country. The Bay Area also has a wealth of internship possibilities at science and technology companies.
Undergraduate Departments & Programs
New Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program in Fall 2025
"What sets this program apart is its emphasis on preparing students for the global stage, combining theoretical foundations with practical, role-driven practice." Director of Nursing Dr. Pamela Stanley
Gael Pre-Health Advising
The Return of a NEW Gaels Pre-Health Advising Program: Pediatrician works with the Career Center
Upcoming Gael Pre-Health Advising Events: (register on Handshake for more details)
March 7, 2025 "Finding Healthcare Internships & Clinical Opportunities"
Student/Alumni Panel on Internships
The Marie Curie STEM Center Director, Dr. Karen Ruff, hosted an internship panel with current students and recent alumni about their internship experiences. How did they get them? What did they do? How did it help their career?
Scientist At Work: Jim Pesavento on Unlocking Algae’s Sustainability Potential
Pesavento Is Committed to Giving Students Hands-On Experiences in Research.
Through a software program developed with Megan Bindra ’23, Pesavento discovered something new about a possible source of sustainable energy. It’s the kind of cutting-edge research “a new guard” of faculty is making possible for students, he says.
Scientist at Work: Amy Chu on Green Chemistry
National Support for Groundbreaking Research with SMC Students
Chu joined SMC’s faculty in 2022 and was recently awarded a $188,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. Working together with her student researchers, she will use the grant to explore capturing (and possibly recycling) phosphates in waterways.
