Exciting challenges are facing the world today. As a result, society needs scientific leaders who can create the rapid scientific and technical innovations for continued prosperity. UW-Stout's Applied Science program will prepare you for direct entry into exciting and rewarding science careers. As a graduate of this program, you will gain the opportunity to pursue careers in biotechnology, materials science, nanotechnology or broadfield science education. These careers include corporate research and development, government compliance, and criminal apprehension testing. The strong academic content of the Applied Science program will also prepare graduates for entry into a variety of professional schools. The Applied Science program has a strong record of preparing students for admission into dental, medical, pharmacy and graduate schools.
Interested?
The Applied Science program provides a broad-based scientific curriculum with opportunities to explore a variety of careers through elective courses, research experiences and internships. The program fosters the creativity necessary for students to contribute to the rapid development of new products and processes.
The Applied Science curriculum is based on a core of biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. You will also explore cutting edge topics in biotechnology and nanotechnology. In addition, you will explore many facets of applied science, including technical writing, data analysis, interpersonal communication and experimental design. You may also be introduced to principles in management, marketing, manufacturing and finance.
In addition to working with instructors from a broad range of fields, you will gain significant hands-on experience through a field or cooperative education experience. This versatility offers the qualities that employers are looking for in today's college graduates -- interpersonal and problem-solving skills, high energy level and good judgment.
Preparing for UW-Stout
Plan now for a career in applied science. Students in the program should have an aptitude for science, math skills and human relations. As a high school student, you should complete four years of math and one year each of biology, chemistry and physics. College preparatory English and basic computer communication and business courses will also be helpful in your preparation for college.
Starting Out
Your coursework in the first semesters is a combination of general education and introductory courses in biology, chemistry and mathematics. In order to begin further study toward your career, you are required to take a one-credit Applied Science Profession course during your first year of study. General education courses include English composition, ethics and speech courses. Cell and molecular biology, organic chemistry and other core science electives round out your second year's introductory courses.
As You Progress
UW-Stout's Applied Science program prepares you for a wide array of career choices. The program offers interdisciplinary courses to provide you a background in many specific areas, including biotechnology, nanotechnology, pharmacology, organic chemistry and microbiology. You will also begin focused study in the career concentration you choose. Concentrations include: Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience and Science Education. A "No Concentration" option is also available and requires a minor in a non-science field of your choice.
Toward the end of your program, you may integrate all your previous coursework into a capstone course. At that time, a number of field experiences are also offered. You will complete a summer- or semester-long co-op after your junior or senior year. Foreign language and foreign study programs are also encouraged, particularly if you are interested in a managerial or supervisory career.
Admission Requirements
In addition to fulfilling the university's basic admission requirements, Applied Science applicants must also have an ACT math score of at least 22 (SAT math 510) and either rank in the upper 40 percent of their high school (or GPA of 3.0), or have a composite ACT score of 22. Nontraditional or transfer student admission will be based on current admission standards with guidance from the program director.
Entry Positions
The business world seeks science professionals with a broad-based education to fill a number of positions. A degree in Applied Science can lead you to work in biotechnology, materials science, pharmaceutical sales, technical support, chemical sales, or research in commercial testing, quality control and environmental safety testing. Science education graduates are qualified for broadfield science certification to teach students ages 10-21. Entry-level positions depend on job experience, job demands, geographical locations, company size and the economy.