Division of Natural Sciences, Engineering & Mathematics

The University of St. Thomas-Houston Division of Natural Sciences, Engineering & Mathematics includes several departments.

Biology 

The living, breathing world around us is full of wonders – some well understood, others mysterious. If you are eager to uncover the facts about birth, life and death, consider a future in biology, the science of life and living things.  

Degrees Offered: 

Experience the best of both worlds: exceptional research opportunities typically found only at much larger universities, plus personal mentorship unique to small classes and labs. You’ll be well prepared for med school, grad school or a rewarding career in biology.  

Some Job Options include but are not limited to:  

Department Chair:  Dr. Alexandra Simmons-Nout – simmonad@stthom.edu 

Chemistry and Biochemistry 

This is a good choice for you if you take a scientific, technical approach to solving problems through research and experiments, you enjoy analyzing data and you’re a good decision maker and communicator.  

Degrees Offered: 

Demand for talented STEM workers is on the rise, and Houston Boasts the #1 median salary for STEM workers in the nation.  UST offers the perfect launchpad to a rewarding career as a chemical professional, with connections to top companies and organizations in Houston. 

Some Job Options include but are not limited to:  

Department Chair:  Dr. Richa Chandra – chandrr@stthom.edu 

Mathematics and Computer Science 

Math lovers understand that every problem has a solution. Described by many as the language of science, and by Einstein as “the poetry of logical ideas” mathematics is the study of patterns. 

Technology permeates almost every activity in our lives, and arguably, this revolution has been propelled by advances in computing technologies. As Bjarne Stroustrup, the inventor of C++ states: “Our civilization runs on software.” From small sensors and smart phones to super computers and cloud technologies, at the core of this revolution are the advancements in software and hardware.  The UST Bachelor of Science Program prepares students for careers in technology, equipping them with a vast skillset including programming, data structures, and algorithms analysis; software development and engineering; computer architecture, IoT, and sensors; networking and security; operating systems and cloud computing; databases, distributed systems, and data science; mathematics and statistics; and research experiences. 

Degrees Offered: 

Math Proficiency is highly prized by many top employers, and demand for mathematicians and statisticians is growing fast. Multiply your opportunities in a wide variety of careers with a string foundation in mathematics.  

In addition to the B.S. in Computer Science, students may also pursue a double major in Mathematics or minors in Applied Statistics, Data Analysis or Mathematics. 

Some Job Options include but are not limited to:  

Department Chair:  Dr. Jack Follis – follisj@stthom.edu 

Engineering and Physics 

Engineering and physics have always been in-demand fields due to a constant need for critical thinkers and problem solvers.  Our programs offer a wide array of learning opportunities from traditional classroom and laboratory settings to undergraduate research and design-oriented courses.  The engineering program curricula are aligned with ABET (Engineering Accreditation Commission) quality standards.  Our program at UST focuses on a broad scope of course work in small classes to ensure individual attention to each student by your professors. 

Degrees Offered: 

Chemical engineers play a huge part in the economy and there is an abundance of chemical engineering positions for graduates.  Other employment opportunities lie in the food and agriculture, pharmaceutical, health and environmental sectors. 

Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems ranging from smartphones to motors.  Employment opportunities range across multiple branches of industry, including the chemical and petrochemical industry, NASA, and aerospace related companies. 

Engineering physics prepares students to solve challenges in engineering with applied physics.  Our program is ideal for students who have an interest in both fields and seek employment in engineering disciplines that require a deeper knowledge of physical principles, such as aerospace, nanotechnology, computing and nuclear science or those students who intend to pursue a graduate degree in engineering. 

Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest, and by far the most popular, fields of engineering today.  As a mechanical engineer, you will apply physical science concepts to address real world problems.  A degree in mechanical engineering is often considered to be the most flexible and adaptable to your specific interest. 

If you want to understand the physical world around you, physics is field of science that explains it all.  Contribute to amazing advances in physics, from space exploration to nanotechnology, by learning the foundational principles and applying them through hands-on and computational research.  Prospective employers know that physics majors bring unique, high-level skills to the table. 

Department Chair:  Dr. Vahid Taghikhani – vahid.taghikhani@stthom.edu 

Pre-Health Professions Program 

Determined to get into medical school and become a doctor?  You’ll face tough competition, and health professional schools set high standards for entry.  Get on a health profession track at UST to ensure you meet every requirement, from coursework to entrance exam score and more.  Combine any major with a health profession track to complete all the prerequisites for a standout application to any health professional school. 

Pre-Health Tracks: 

Program Director:  Dr. Gabriel Villares – villargj@stthom.edu