Office of the Dean
Dean: D. Bruce Conn E-mail: bconn@berry.edu
Science Center, Room 301
Telephone: (706) 236-1756
Fax: (706) 238-7855
As dean of the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, it's my pleasure to welcome you and to highlight for you some of the characteristics that help distinguish our school from the others. Throughout the school, an emphasis on inquiry, research and problem-solving skills guides the curriculum and classroom practice. The school strives to provide for all Berry students opportunities to gain an appreciation for scientific thought and methods, and logical and mathematical reasoning. For students who seek greater experience in these areas, we offer opportunities for mastery of the content in one or more disciplines, for experiential learning in laboratories and field study, and for the development of the work ethic.
If you choose to major in one of the mathematical or natural sciences at Berry College, you will find yourself in the company of some of the most talented and brightest students on campus. Our students are encouraged to participate in faculty research and to develop their own original research designs under the guidance of dedicated instructors who are, themselves, exceptional scholars, researchers, and teachers. Smaller classes foster close relationships among students and faculty. In a climate rich in tradition and conducive to excellence, many students achieve early success. Motivated students gain early acceptance at the best graduate schools, gain preparation for professional work, take honors in national competitions, present papers national and international scientific conferences, and co-author articles that become published in leading scientific and professional journals.
Berry College has demonstrated its commitment to the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences with the construction of a $25 million science center, which opened for classes in January 2001. The science center includes sophisticated classrooms and teaching laboratories for the sciences, comfortable study rooms, mathematics and computer science learning labs, and two greenhouses that are used primarily for research. Our science conference facilities are also used to host regional and national scientific conferences, which bring leading scientists and mathematicians from other institutions to enrich our on-campus programs. Laboratories and lecture rooms for the animal and plant sciences are housed in the Westcott Building, which is located adjacent to the impressive English Gothic-style Ford Buildings. This is supplemented by an ultra-modern dairy, a beef research center, and an equine science center for agricultural sciences. In addition, the 26,000-acre campus area of forests, meadows, lakes and streams, provides many natural opportunities for ecological and environmental field study and research. The opportunity to study natural science and conduct research on America’s largest college campus is in itself a great reason to join the family of Berry student scientists.
Now, a word about the college. Berry College consistently ranks among America's top colleges. The college's comprehensive curriculum stresses academic excellence, practical work experience, and an interdenominational religion-in-life program. Honor and integrity are qualities sought in prospective students. For more than 100 years, Berry faculty have remained committed to the College's mission to educate "the head, the heart, and the hands" by providing an educational program committed to high academic standards, values based on Christian principles, practical work experience and community service in a distinctive environment of natural beauty. Also, in recognition of the College's unique educational philosophy, Berry donors continue to be generous with their philanthropic support to provide students with resources, through awards and scholarships, to challenge their hearts and minds.
The Bachelor of Science degree is conferred upon students who complete a major in the mathematical or natural sciences. Students may obtain a minor in most disciplines as well. Others opt for the dual-degree programs in either engineering or nursing.
As you navigate our Web site, you'll be introduced to:
- Our major programs (10 majors, including 2 dual-degree programs, and 7 minors)
- Opportunities within the academic departments which administer the major programs
- An outstanding faculty who are dedicated to their professions
- Exceptional students doing the exceptional!
- Enhanced learning opportunities at off-campus locations
- Alumni: a follow-up on their activities after leaving Berry
With this brief introduction, I invite you to take a closer look at the opportunities that exist at Berry College within the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences.
Cordially,
David Bruce Conn, Dean