Academic Programs
Major Components of the Education and Research Track five-year programs
Science - a strong foundation in physical, chemical and biological sciences, the common molecular patterns and principles underlying the diverse expressions of life and an introduction to the physical world. The core provides the foundation for advanced study of organic chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular and cellular biology.
Mathematics and Computation - differential and integral calculus, statistics, computational methods of solving scientific problems, computer applications. Laboratory Component - innovative laboratory experiments, challenging problem solving, using technology for data sharing and teamwork, virtual experiences.
Liberal Arts - development of a broad education that includes diverse experiences in the humanities and social sciences. The General Education program requires that all students take 12 credits of foundation courses (including English composition, speech communication and world literature) as well as nine credits in the humanities and nine credits in the social sciences.
Technology Infusion - the use of state-of-the-art technology is a thematic underpinning of both the scientist-teacher and the research/technology degree tracks. The freshman/sophomore core courses and laboratories will employ a wide range of software for virtual lab experiments, simulations, data analysis, report writing and presentation, and collaboration tools for team projects and sharing information. In the scientist-teacher track, the upper division and graduate courses will emphasize the evaluation and effective use of instructional technology. Students in the research/technology track will use sophisticated software for data analysis as well as the latest instrumentation and equipment for their specialization.
Seminars and Electronic Portfolios - in the sophomore year the Current Issues in Science and Technology seminar explores careers in teaching and scientific research. Students will use multimedia technologies to develop reflective electronic portfolios that will allow them to maintain a record of their achievement and growth.
Freshman/Sophomore Core
The freshman/sophomore core curriculum of the NJCSTME program integrates strong interdisciplinary courses with laboratory experiences. The core builds inquiry and problem-solving skills, and through the seminar courses embarks on an exploration of the ethical and societal concerns arising from a scientific and technological world.
During each semester of their freshman and sophomore years NJCSTME students take three linked courses: a strong foundational science course, a mathematics/computation course, and a hands-on laboratory that applies content from both science and mathematics. The core curriculum also emphasizes the use of computer technology to support learning and provide sophisticated methodologies for problem solving. This approach enhances a student's appreciation of the integration of science and mathematics from a holistic perspective.