Welcome to the School of Health and Natural Sciences
The School of Health and Natural Sciences (HNS) consists of 26 majors within six departments across STEM and health-related disciplines. Programs are designed to build a strong foundational knowledge and engage students in high-impact practices, such as undergraduate research, internships, and hands-on, integrated learning.
We take pride in our exceptional facilities, including laboratories designed to support hands-on, inquiry-based approaches to teaching and learning. With access to updated software and equipment, our students are able to stay current with industry standards. Classrooms provide space for innovative teaching, discussions, and presentations, supporting future scientists, mathematicians, fitness and healthcare professionals, and STEM teachers.
Whether you are beginning your college career or continuing your academic journey with us, HNS faculty support every aspect of your progress through individualized mentorship and advising. Our program offerings will not only prepare you for direct entry into the workforce or graduate/medical school but they are also designed for flexibility, knowing that you may still be exploring career options.
We value strong industry, community, education, and healthcare partnerships allowing us to provide dynamic programs that will prepare students for an ever-changing world and a vibrant STEM and healthcare workforce. In addition, students have opportunities to study abroad, engage in research in the field, present at conferences, and engage in service learning.
I invite you to explore our programs, ask questions, and visit us soon! During your visit, you will learn about opportunities waiting for you at Fitchburg State. Please reach out to the individual department or the Dean’s office at plafount@fitchburgstate.edu for more information.
Go Falcons!
Jennifer Hanselman, Ph.D., jhanselm@fitchburgstate.edu
Dean, School of Health and Natural Sciences
Academic Departments
Biology and Chemistry Department
Environmental, Geographic and Public Health Sciences Department
Exercise and Sports Science Department
Mathematics Department
Nursing Department
Psychological Science Department
Additional Information
The mission of the School of Health and Natural Sciences is to help students develop the skills and habits of mind necessary for scientific inquiry and analysis in their professional, personal and civic lives. Faculty experts and engaged staff in the fields of biology, chemistry, earth and geographic sciences, exercise and sports science, mathematics, physics, psychological science, and nursing support students via foundational learning in the general education curriculum and mastery of content in a variety of majors. Our faculty offer classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction as well as research opportunities in the sciences and health professions. Faculty and staff collaborate across the University and beyond to offer interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
The baccalaureate degree in nursing and the master’s degree in nursing at Fitchburg State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Similarly, our Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).