Oregon State Science: Pillars of Discovery
Exploring the Frontiers of Knowledge at OSU's College of Science.
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About the College
Institutional Overview
The Oregon State University College of Science is a distinguished public academic institution, operating as an integral part of Oregon State University. It is a leading public research university dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and educating future leaders.
Academic Scope and Reach
The college comprises seven academic schools, offering a robust curriculum with nine undergraduate programs. It actively supports seven doctoral-granting and eight master's degree-granting programs. Furthermore, it provides essential foundational science courses required by students across various other science-focused colleges within the university.
Faculty and Student Distinction
With over 3,400 students and a dedicated faculty of 184, the College of Science fosters a vibrant academic community. Notably, sixteen faculty members have been elected as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), underscoring the college's commitment to research excellence.
Impact and Innovation
Since its establishment, the college has secured over $55 million in grant funding. It has been instrumental in developing more than 48 new technologies and has been awarded 18 U.S. patents since 2011, showcasing its significant contributions to scientific innovation and discovery.
A Legacy of Scientific Inquiry
Foundational Roots
The College of Science was formally established in 1932 as the Oregon State University School of Science, following a statewide reorganization of higher education. However, the university's engagement with science education dates back to its inception in 1868, offering foundational courses in general science, chemistry, and geology.
Pioneering Doctoral Education
In 1935, OSU awarded its first doctoral degrees, with three of the four recipients hailing from the College of Science. Notable early graduates include Herbert L. Jones (Physics), Alfred Taylor (Zoology), and Karl Klemm (Chemistry). The first woman to earn a Ph.D. from OSU was Chung Kwai Lui in Physics in 1941, who later made significant contributions to the Manhattan Project.
Evolution and Renaming
The institution evolved significantly over the decades. In 1974, the School of Science was officially renamed the Oregon State University College of Science, reflecting its expanded scope and growing importance within the university's academic structure.
Academic Departments
Core Scientific Disciplines
The College of Science is organized into distinct departments, each dedicated to advancing knowledge and training students in specialized fields:
- Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Integrative Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Microbiology
- Physics
- Statistics
Pathways to Medicine
Exceptional Acceptance Rates
The College of Science maintains strong affiliations with leading medical schools nationwide. On average, 60-70% of its pre-med graduates are accepted into medical school, significantly exceeding the national average acceptance rate of 33-40%. This success highlights the rigorous preparation provided by the college's programs.
Premier Undergraduate Majors
Top majors for students pursuing a pre-medical track include Biochemistry and Biophysics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biohealth Sciences (Ecampus), Biology, Chemistry, and Microbiology. These programs provide a strong scientific foundation essential for medical studies.
Diverse Health Professions Preparation
The college offers a wide array of special programs designed to meet the entrance requirements for various medical and health professions. This includes preparation for fields such as clinical laboratory science, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant programs, podiatry, and veterinary medicine.
Navigating Fiscal Challenges
The Impact of Measure 5
In 1990, Oregon voters approved Ballot Measure 5, a landmark property tax reduction initiative. This legislation significantly altered state funding for education. In response to projected budget cuts, university administrators requested the closure of one program within the College of Science.
Elimination of General Science
Following this directive, college administrators made the difficult decision to eliminate the General Science department in 1991 and 1992. While general science courses are still offered as electives, the dedicated department was discontinued due to its broad curriculum, impacting the university's overall budget appropriations.
Distinguished Alumni
Shaping Industries and Advancing Frontiers
Graduates from the College of Science have achieved remarkable success across diverse fields, leaving a significant impact on science, industry, and society. Their achievements span mountaineering, academia, entrepreneurship, public service, and technological innovation.
Distinguished Faculty
Leading Researchers and Educators
The College of Science is home to faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields, contributing groundbreaking research and shaping the next generation of scientists.
Leadership Through the Years
Chronological Deans
The College of Science has been guided by dedicated leaders throughout its history. Here is a list of its deans:
| Dean | Years Served |
|---|---|
| Earl L. Packard | 1932โ1938 |
| Francois A. Gilfillan | 1938โ1962 |
| Vernon Cheldelin | 1962โ1965 |
| John Ward | 1966โ1970 |
| Robert W. Krauss | 1973โ1980 |
| Thomas Sugihara | 1981โ1986 |
| Frederick M. Horne | 1986โ1999 |
| Sherman H. Bloomer | 1999โ2013 |
| Vincent T. Remcho | 2013โ2014 |
| Sastry Pantula | 2014โ2017 |
| Roy Haggerty | 2017โ2022 |
| Vrushali Bokil (Interim) | 2022โ2023 |
| Eleanor Feingold | 2023โPresent |
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References
References
- http://osulibrary.oregonstate.edu/archives/chronology/chron_1930.html Retrieved on April 3, 2007.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice Regarding Content
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not be entirely comprehensive, accurate, or up-to-date.
This is not professional academic or career advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for direct consultation with university officials, academic advisors, or relevant professionals. Users should always refer to official Oregon State University College of Science resources and consult with qualified experts for specific guidance related to academic programs, career paths, or institutional matters.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information presented.