X-Guide College of Arts & Sciences (Sciences)
Broaden your mind, seek the truth and meet the challenges of the times in our science majors.
Follow your signs
There’s a science to everything you do. You’re methodical and analyze situations. Maybe you’ve always moved through the world imagining the molecular make up of things around you. Perhaps you’ve been a tech whisperer ever since you can remember and have yet to come across a device you can’t fix or figure out.
These are usually signs that a major in science is calling. As you’re choosing a path for college, explore exactly where these signs could be leading you within the field of science.
What to think about when picking your major
While researching potential majors within the sciences, it may be helpful to keep these questions in mind:
- Why are you interested in the sciences? Is there a specific reason you’re looking into this field? Sometimes outside influences such as family members, past school courses, and personal experiences can influence how we choose our career path.
- What field of study within the sciences would you want to pursue? The world of science provides numerous paths, allowing you to explore a variety of programs including Biology, Physics, Chemistry and much more.
- What career path do you want to take? There are many options when it comes to careers in the sciences. If you don’t have an ideal career path in mind yet, then consider what characteristics your perfect position would have and compare those to jobs within your field.
- What do you want out of your career and what do you value? Do you want to travel? Are you looking for an office environment or more hands-on work? Would you prefer working directly with people or behind the scenes? These are a few questions to ask yourself when you’re mapping out your career choices to make sure your path leads you toward a job that fits your values.
The College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences is the oldest and largest college at Xavier University. The college provides an excellent liberal arts education in the Jesuit tradition that prepares students for careers, professional or graduate school, and life in a global society.
Top Majors
Some of the most popular science majors in Xavier’s College of Arts and Sciences include:
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Engineering Physics
- Biomedical Sciences
- Actuarial Science
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Science
- Economics, Sustainability & Society
Honors Programs
Xavier’s Honors programs in the College of Arts and Sciences challenge students to reach their full potential by allowing students to refine their academic focus, expand their interests, and unlock new research and career possibilities. Students in these programs take advantage of distinct faculty support from top-notch professors and the opportunity for interdisciplinary coursework with other highly motivated peers.
One of these honors programs that science majors may participate in is University Scholars. Students in Xavier’s University Scholars program study any major, but take their core courses in small, specialized classes that promote deeper exploration and close faculty support.
Xavier's Professional Connections
The faculty in Xavier’s College of Arts and Sciences have cultivated community partners – many with whom they match students for internships that fit their skills and interests. Some programs in this college also host networking events throughout the year for students to meet alumni in similar fields. No matter which major you choose, Xavier will connect you with community partners and professional mentors.
Undergraduate research and internships
87% of Xavier students gain real-world experience through an internship. Recent students have interned with medical practices and other healthcare providers, Great American Insurance, Kroger, and Eli Lilly. Undergraduate students at Xavier also have the opportunity to conduct research that makes a real difference. Recently students have applied computer programs to address the opioid crisis, developed defenses to protect trees from invasive beetles, and leveraged mathematical algorithms to model unbiased congressional districting.
Points of Pride
- 85% of Xavier students are accepted into medical school compared to the 40% national average (Five year average)
- Xavier's Science majors have the opportunity to complete undergraduate research under faculty guidance
- Xavier’s Actuarial Science majors have the opportunity to take coursework that provides Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) credits in the actuarial field
- Xavier’s Engineering Physics program is one of only two at a Jesuit school to have accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Study Abroad
Xavier students with a science major have the chance to step outside of their comfort zone and apply what they learn in the classroom on a larger scale. There are several study abroad experiences for students to gain new perspectives of the world:
- Biology, Chemistry, and Physics majors have the opportunity to complete a 9-week paid summer internship in Paris, France
- Physics majors have the opportunity to study the Physics of Energy by visiting various power plants in Wales and England
- Applied Physics and Engineering Physics students have the opportunity to study at the Ostbayrische Technische Hochschule in Regensburg, Germany
- Economics, Sustainability, and Society majors have the opportunity to study for a semester in Sweden or 10 days in Peru
Student Outcomes
The College of Arts and Sciences provides engaging coursework, integrative learning opportunities, and sets students on a path toward success as they head into the real world. 99% of Xavier students are employed full-time, enrolled in graduate school, or working in a volunteer position within 6 months of graduation.
Graduates go on to achieve rewarding careers such as:
- Actuarial Analyst
- Chemist
- Developer
- Electrical Engineer
- Research Engineer
- Software Engineer
Some of the top employers of Xavier graduates include:
- 84.51°
- AT&T
- The Christ Hospital
- GE Aviation
- Good Samaritan Hospital
- TBM Consulting
Xavier and the Queen City
One of the best parts of being a Musketeer is learning in the growing and thriving city of Cincinnati. Cincinnati is home to multiple Fortune 500 companies and nationally recognized hospitals where many students find employment and internship opportunities It is also known for its love of the arts and appreciation of creative expression. The Queen City provides unique learning opportunities that guarantee Xavier students graduate with strong professional relationships and relevant skills.
While Cincinnati is bustling with professional opportunity, it’s also the center of a social scene like no other. The Queen City has multiple activities such as BLINK, ice skating in Fountain Square, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, major sports events, museums, Riverbend Music Center, and so many others.
There’s no shortage of chances for fun and excitement with Xavier located in the heart of such an energetic city.
Next Steps
Imagine yourself as a Xavier Musketeer? Plan a visit to campus at xavier.edu/visit
If you want to connect with your Admission Counselor, please contact xuadmit@xavier.edu or at 513-745-3301.
Get to know a little more about Xavier by clicking the links below:
Check out our admission process
Visit us in-person or virtually
Office of Admission
513-745-3301
XUadmit@xavier.edu
3800 Victory Parkway
Cincinnati, Ohio 45207-513