Physical & Environmental Sciences at Aquinas College

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Programs of study: physical and environmental Sciences

You step outside and pick up a leaf in your local park. That leaf has chlorophyll to help it absorb the sun’s energy. Above it, there’s a tree that has stood for at least a hundred years. The ground is warped and slanted, showing the passage of water eroding the soil over time. You let the leaf fall to the ground, noticing that it doesn’t fall so much as it flutters. Each of these observations has a different scientific basis, a different set of facts that creates a lens through which you can see the world. At Aquinas, your studies in Physical & Environmental Sciences are shaped by hands-on experience just like this, with expert faculty members ready to show you how to understand the world and make a difference in it.

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Chemistry

At Aquinas, we base our curriculum on the American Chemical Society guidelines for professional training, so courses will cover general, inorganic, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to take courses in biochemistry, environmental chemistry, and many other advanced topics.

Environmental Science at Aquinas College

Environmental Sciences

At Aquinas, Environmental Studies teaches you to see beyond the surface, connecting scientific knowledge with real-world observation. You’ll explore how atmosphere, landforms, weather, and ecosystems interact with each other, all while examining how human choices influence the natural world.

Geography

In the Geography program at Aquinas, you’ll explore the world through patterns, movement, and place. As one of the only two liberal arts colleges in Michigan to offer a Geography major, Aquinas gives you hands-on experience across the full triad of Geography: physical geography, human geography, and geographic techniques.

Physics

At Aquinas, we take experiential learning seriously. You’ll develop critical problem-solving, analytical, and mathematical skills through labs, research, and internship opportunities. Then, with the help of Aquinas’ dedicated professors, you’ll begin to connect these skills with in-demand jobs and step confidently into your future.

Majors & Minors

Chemistry	Chemistry (major and minor) Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Chemical Physics (major)
Environmental Sciences	Environmental Sciences (major and minor) Concentrations in Ecology, Chemistry, or Earth Science (must choose at least one for major)
Geography	Geography (major or minor)
Physics	Chemical Physics (major) Physics (minor)

Albertus Magnus Hall of Science

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Foster Planet Walk

The Foster Planet Walk was created in 1996 through a generous grant from Anthony J. Foster, M.D. '73 and Linda Nemec Foster, MFA '72, who attended, met, and later graduated from Aquinas College. The Planet Walk is a scale model of the solar system, consisting of nine bronze disks mounted on large rocks that stretch across campus from Albertus Hall to Fulton Street. Be on the lookout for these unique rocks! Foster Planet Walk

Student Clubs

The Registered Student Organization (RSO) Program at Aquinas College features many wonderful clubs, such as the Aquinas Chemistry Society, to provide students with opportunities to gather with peers to build community around shared interests, hobbies, areas of study, and more. Registered Student Organizations

Student Programs

The Juan Olivarez STEM Scholars Program

The STEM Scholars Program provides additional, targeted orientation to college-level math and science to first-year students who plan to study one of these disciplines at Aquinas.Click here for information

Insignis Program

The Insignis Honors Program at Aquinas College offers high-achieving students a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum, exclusive research opportunities, and a vibrant community that fosters intellectual growth and professional success.

Study Abroad

Discover global opportunities with the ability to study abroad at Aquinas College. Offering immersive semester, summer, and short-term programs designed to broaden your perspective and enhance your academic journey.