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Department of Natural Sciences

The Department of Natural Sciences offers degrees in Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Studies and offers coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Studies for non-majors.  Our mission is to prepare students for successful careers as scientific researchers, technologists, doctors, health care providers, inventors, leaders, and educators. We also aim to strengthen the scientific literacy and data analysis capabilities of all students who take our courses.

Degrees

The Department of Natural Sciences offers Bachelors of Arts (BA) degrees in Biology and Environmental Studies and Bachelors of Science (BS) degrees in Biology and Chemistry.  Students may also minor in Biology, Chemistry, or Environmental Studies.  Biology majors may additionally choose an area of concentration in General Biology, Environmental Biology, Human Biology, Pre-Medical, or Biology Education. Please see the program bulletins below for degree plans and course descriptions.

                    Biology                                 Chemistry                           Environmental Studies

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Special Programs

STEM Research Scholars Program: The STEM Research Scholars Program allows HT students to conduct hands-on scientific research projects with faculty mentors at HT and with collaborating partner institutions. You will develop the skills you need for a STEM career or graduate study as you research relevant scientific questions. Scholars receive stipends, mentorship, and the opportunity to travel to scientific conferences and external research labs. Current projects include research in cardiovascular health disparities (with Merck), urban coyotes (with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department), protein evolution and bioinformatics (with the University of Texas), the indoor microbiome, and affordable housing. Contact Program Director Amanda Masino for more information.

Environmental Justice:  HT now offers an interdisciplinary Environmental Studies degree program for students interested in environmental public policy, conservation, environmental advocacy, multidisciplinary research, and education. The program focuses on environmental justice, the theory and practice of placing equity in the center of environmental studies, ensuring that all sectors benefit from a healthy environment and no sectors are adversely affected.

Joint Admissions Medical Program (JAMP):  JAMP provides early admission to a Texas medical school for qualified HT students. HT students apply to the program between May of their freshman year and October of their sophomore year. Successful applicants are provided with MCAT preparation, summer research internships, and pre-admission counseling to ensure a successful medical school experience. Read more about program criteria and components at the JAMP website.

Student Organizations

  • American Chemical Society (ACS)

HT’s student chapter of ACS promotes chemistry education through chemistry fairs, demonstrations at local schools, and travel to scientific conferences.

  • Minority Association of Premedical/Prehealth Students (HT-MAPS)

MAPS provides enrichment activities for students interested in health professions, including seminars in medical/graduate school preparation, networking opportunities, and travel to conferences. Contact Amanda Masino, the faculty advisor of HT-MAPS, for more information.