School of Natural and Social Sciences

A message from the Director of the School of Natural and Social Sciences, Meagan Curtis: 

 

At Purchase, we’re serious about science—and it shows. Many of our programs are ranked among the top 10 nationally for the percentage of graduates who go on to earn PhDs. What makes Purchase graduates so successful? Our students receive rigorous training in the methods and tools of their fields, and then they’re given the opportunity to use those skills. Students complete applied class projects throughout their time at Purchase, and every student pursues a year-long project while working closely with a faculty member. The results are often extraordinary—and life-changing.

Whether they are conducting research on genetics, human behavior, or social systems; building AI interfaces and developing apps; exploring cryptocurrency market volatility, the anthropology of mosh pits, the production of biodiesel from algae, or even testing the flower preferences of honeybees through pollen sequencing of honey, these projects launch our graduates into the next stages of their careers, landing them in competitive fields and graduate programs, and sometimes leading to professional publications and conference presentations. Through their applied projects, our students create the world of tomorrow through the questions they ask today.

At Purchase, learning extends beyond the classroom and laboratory. For example, our premed shadowing club enables students who are preparing for a future in medicine to shadow physicians at a local hospital. Students who want to launch their own business can compete for start-up funding in our annual Shark Tank competition. And external internships enable students to gain work experience and build connections with professionals in their field of interest.

Purchase students receive close mentorship from dedicated faculty. Students in the sciences can also receive free tutoring through Einstein Corner, our peer mentorship program housed in the Natural Sciences Building, or through the Pareto Improvement Unit, our Economics peer mentorship program.

Intrigued? Reach out to us with your questions! Email sciences (at) purchase.edu.