School of Sciences

Welcome to the School of Sciences.

I am delighted that you are here and interested in learning more about us.

At the School of Sciences, “Sciences” means the full spectrum of discovery. This includes the natural and mathematical sciences as well as the social and behavioral sciences. Whether you are fascinated by the physical world, curious about human behavior, or interested in solving complex societal challenges, you will find a place here to explore your interests.

We believe that science is not just something you study. It is something you experience, question, and apply. Our personalized learning environment ensures that you are known by your professors and supported as an individual. You will have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research, engage in hands-on learning in laboratories and in the field, and connect your studies to real-world problems that matter.

Our community is united by curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to making a positive impact. We are dedicated to preparing students to think critically, act thoughtfully, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. Through rigorous academic programs and high-impact learning experiences, we help you build the knowledge and skills needed for success across a wide range of careers and future paths.

I invite you to explore our website and discover the many opportunities available to you. You will see how our mission comes to life through the work of our students and faculty as they apply scientific inquiry to human, social, and environmental challenges.

The best way to understand what makes our community special is to visit. I encourage you to plan a campus tour at SUNY Oneonta. My colleagues and I look forward to welcoming you and helping you envision your future here.

No matter which of the many paths you choose in life, the sciences will prepare you to succeed and to make a difference.

Let us begin that journey together.

Warmest wishes,

Tracy H. Allen, Ph.D. 
Dean, School of Sciences 

Welcome to the School of Sciences!

Whether you are a returning student or stepping onto our campus for the very first time, we are thrilled to have you as part of our scientific community.

In the School of Sciences, we believe that science is not a spectator sport. It is a dynamic, evolving process of discovery—and we don’t expect you to wait until graduation to start discovering. Our institution is deeply committed to experiential learning and high-impact practices, which means your education here will extend far beyond the pages of a textbook or the walls of a traditional lecture hall.

From your very first semesters, you will have the opportunity to dive into the doing of science:

Undergraduate Research: Work side-by-side with faculty mentors on original research, present at regional and national conferences, and potentially co-author published papers.

Fieldwork and Industry Internships: Apply your classroom knowledge to real-world challenges through hands-on field studies and internships with local and regional partners.

Community-Engaged Learning: Use your scientific skills to solve tangible problems within our community, bridging the gap between theory and civic impact.

Our regional roots mean we are uniquely positioned to offer you a tight-knit, collaborative environment. You aren't just a number in a massive auditorium; you are an active collaborator in our labs, our field sites, and our classrooms. Our dedicated faculty are not just teachers — they are mentors, guides, and champions for your personal and professional growth.

As you navigate your journey through college, I encourage you to lean into the discomfort of a new challenge. Ask the difficult questions. Get your hands dirty in the lab. Volunteer for that field project. The skills you build here — critical thinking, resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving — will serve as the foundation for your future career, whether you are heading into industry, healthcare, graduate school, or education.

My door is always open, and our entire faculty and staff are here to support you every step of the way. Let’s make this an incredible year of discovery.

Warm regards,

Ursula Sanborn-Overby, Ph.D.
Associate Dean, School of Sciences