Welcome to the School of Health and Natural Sciences
The School of Health and Natural Sciences (HNS) offers 26 majors across six academic departments, focusing on STEM and health-related fields. Our programs are thoughtfully designed to provide current foundational knowledge as well as opportunities to engage in key high-impact practices such as research, internships, and advanced capstone courses. In addition, our students are able to study abroad, present at conferences, and participate in community-based service learning activities.
Our outstanding facilities include laboratories that are designed for inquiry-based, hands-on teaching and learning. Students have access to updated software and equipment, enabling them to develop skills that meet current industry standards. Our classrooms are purposefully designed to support innovative teaching methods as well as class discussions, presentations, and active-learning.
At Fitchburg State, we work hard to prepare future healthcare and fitness professionals, scientists and researchers, mathematicians, STEM teachers, and industry professionals. Our HNS faculty are dedicated to your success, offering personalized advising, mentorship, and high-quality teaching. The School maintains strong partnerships with industry, community, education, and healthcare organizations, enabling us to offer relevant and forward-looking programs that prepare students for an evolving world and a developing STEM and healthcare workforce.
We are committed to supporting your progress every step of the way, whether you are starting your college journey or continuing your education with us. Our dynamic and flexible programs will prepare you to directly enter the workforce or to pursue graduate study in your chosen field.
I encourage you to explore our programs, ask questions, and visit us soon! During your visit, you'll discover the amazing opportunities awaiting you at Fitchburg State. For more information, please contact the specific department or the Dean’s office at plafount@fitchburgstate.edu.
Dr. Jannette McMenamy
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).