Requirements
Science Fundamentals
STIA majors are required to develop a grounding in at least one field of science. The STIA major science fundamentals requirement can be met before or after declaring STIA as a major. This requirement can be minimally met by taking a foundation sequence of laboratory based, natural or computer science. For natural sciences, this typically means Biology I and II with labs, General Chemistry I and II with labs, or Physics I and II. For Computer Science, the requirement can be met with Computer Science I and II (COSC 051, 052) plus Mathematical Methods of Computer Science (COSC 030). STIA majors are also required to take one course in research or analytic methods related to STIA disciplines.
Note that science classes that meet the SFS (INAF 100s) and main campus core science requirements do not meet the STIA major science requirement. However, natural science classes (e.g. classes other than computer science) that meet the STIA major science requirement do meet the SFS and main campus core requirements.
Enrolling in courses that meet the STIA science requirement in the first and second year is recommended for students with interest in the STIA major.
STIA Fundamentals
STIA majors must complete the following courses:
• STIA 305 – Science & Technology in the Global Arena, usually taken in the sophomore year (4 credits)
• Four courses from an area of concentration (at least two of these courses must have STIA prefixes)
• One Senior Seminar course or the STIA Honors Thesis course sequence
STIA fundamentals courses should be chosen in consultation with the STIA faculty advisor and STIA Curricular Dean.
STIA Concentrations
STIA majors may select one of the following concentrations:
• Energy and Environment
• Business, Growth, and Development
• Biotechnology and Global Health
• Science, Technology, and Security
In special cases where a student has a particular interest not reflected in the current STIA concentrations, students may apply to the STIA Director to create their own concentration that aligns with their academic goals and interests. Please refer to the STIA program website for more information on the STIA concentrations.
For additional information on major requirements see the SFS Bulletin. For undergraduate student advising questions please contact the STIA Curricular Dean, Mini Murphy.