Department of Natural and Applied Sciences
Welcome to the Department of Natural and Applied Sciences at Alvernia University. At the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation, the department offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary academic experience. It is dedicated to preparing students for meaningful careers and advanced study in science, healthcare, research and environmental stewardship. Through small class sizes, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and personalized mentorship, students gain the technical skills and ethical grounding to become leaders in their fields. Join us as we explore the natural world, push the boundaries of applied science, and prepare the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
Getting Started
Science Programs at Alvernia
As one of the university’s largest departments, we are proud to house over seven distinct programs each designed to foster critical thinking, scientific inquiry and hands-on learning.
Information
As a biochemistry major at Alvernia, you’ll learn more than what is contained in textbooks. You’ll experience “real-world learning” that will enable you to link your classroom experiences to the larger community and the world.
Alvernia's biology program takes a multidisciplinary approach to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of fundamental scientific principles in mathematics, chemistry and physics. The laboratory spaces expose students to equipment and instrumentation for examining cells and tissues, isolating and manipulating DNA and protein, growing and analyzing microbes, and analyzing metabolites in plants and other organisms.
Students interested in a career working in a clinical laboratory can pursue the Biology Medical Laboratory Science degree. This 3+1 program offers instructional courses at Alvernia’s campus for the first 3 years, and a fourth year of clinical study in a school of medical technology approved by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratories Sciences (NAACLS).
Alvernia strives to give students not just technical knowledge but insight and guidance about how science should be applied for the good of humanity and the betterment of society. As a Franciscan University, we are especially positioned to coordinate such goals.
Alvernia’s Environmental Science program provides students with an interdisciplinary foundation in the natural sciences to understand current environmental challenges and their potential solutions. The curriculum explores terrestrial, aquatic and built environments in the context of a rapidly changing climate and offers students experiential learning opportunities locally and abroad.
As a forensic science major at Alvernia, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a modern crime lab in your hometown, or at the regional, state or federal level. Alvernia's program prepares students for a life of personal and professional integrity grounded in a commitment to serving others, enhancing understanding that science can provide vital information to make the world a better, safer place.
Alvernia’s general science program offers students insight into the intellectual and philosophical natures of science, and helps them develop the ability to select, adopt, evaluate and employ strategies and materials. Students will acquire a broad background in the sciences, enabling them to develop skills that relate to a variety of topics, ideas and experiences. The curriculum includes biology, chemistry, physics and earth science, teaching how science intersects with society.
Alvernia's Doctor of Physical Therapy program is offered in a 4+3 year curricular format or a 3+3 year accelerated format. Students who are admitted as undergraduate biochemistry students begin the professional phase of the curriculum in their senior year. These students are eligible to compete with other accelerated students for entrance into the program and may complete their undergraduate training and doctoral degree within 6 years.
Alvernia's Doctor of Physical Therapy program is offered in a 4+3 year curricular format or a 3+3 year accelerated format. Students who are admitted as undergraduate biology students begin the professional phase of the curriculum in their senior year. These students are eligible to compete with other accelerated students for entrance into the program and may complete their undergraduate training and doctoral degree within 6 years.
The Bio-PA (3+2) accelerated track is a fast-paced course of study which allows focused students to obtain both a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master of Medical Science degree within five years.
Experience Alvernia
Choosing the right school is about finding the best fit for your learning style and career goals. At Alvernia, students receive a highly personalized, hands-on education that prepares them for success. Visit our campus, tour our labs and meet our faculty to discover what makes Alvernia different.
Alvernia in the Amazon
Assistant Professor of Biology Jamie Becker and environmental science major Alexander Kabrich joined a team of teachers, artists, and researchers in the Peruvian Amazon to pilot new methods for capturing and sequencing environmental DNA (eDNA).
Get to Know Your Faculty
Alvernia University breaks ground on American House renovation at Reading CollegeTowne
Renovation will expand healthcare access, experiential learning and inclusive workforce development in downtown Reading
Scholarship Luncheon celebrates excellence and Alvernia momentum
Admitted students and families connect with campus leaders as recruitment continues to climb
Alvernia renews Carnegie Community Engagement Classification
Recognition affirms 40-hour service requirement, CollegeTowne partnerships and mission-driven impact
Alvernia highlights associate degree transfer pathway to accelerate bachelor’s completion
Policy recognizes general education completion and supports adult learners through flexible programs, advising and SOLAR services
