Chemistry

Chemistry

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

To address challenges like sustainable energy, pharmaceuticals, polymers and manufacturing materials, you first must understand the chemical reactions that make them possible.

Introduction

Like biology, chemistry is a basic science relevant to all life on Earth (and the larger universe). The field’s foundational principles cross industry and discipline, contributing to groundbreaking innovations that lead to the medicines we take, the cleaning products we use, and even the skin, hair, and beauty products we see online. The skills you learn in chemistry, not only help you understand the known world, but can even be part of your journey to discover unknown ones.

In addition to majoring or minoring in general chemistry, students also have the option to choose a concentration for the chemistry major:

Learn how to: 

  • Demonstrate and share ethical values of scientific research, as well as chemistry’s impact on the environment and society 

  • Recognize interdisciplinary relationships between chemistry and other basic sciences including biology, physics, biophysics, polymers, material sciences, biochemistry, nanotechnology, and mathematics 

  • Think critically and analytically on investigation and interpretation of experimental results 

  • Solve problems of a chemical nature through application of knowledge of experimental and theoretical approaches 

  • Apply knowledge to connect solutions and approaches to new problems 

  • Effectively communicate data and information to the scientific community through written and oral formats 

  • Demonstrate mastery of chemistry foundations and applications 

  • Apply program knowledge to real world questions and issues 

Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Our renowned faculty design the curriculum to prepare students for careers and pursuits in scientific, professional, and research positions. We welcome students with a passion for science and its applications, who see chemistry as a way to solve the world’s most pressing problems through scientific inquiry.

Learn about the basics of chemical elements, organic and inorganic compounds, concepts and mechanism of chemical reactions, chemical structure and analysis, thermodynamics, as well as instrumentation, experiments, and technologies. Courses in general chemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, and polymer chemistry provide in-depth instruction in fundamentals concepts and theories, principles, and techniques.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the Chemistry major, students must be enrolled and in good academic standing. It also helps if you’re excited about and interested in a career in science!

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among:

  • General Education Requirements, or GERs

  • Core major courses

  • Supporting major courses

  • Electives

General Education Requirements (GERs)

All students must complete 40 GER credits. In addition, all science majors must also take these courses to satisfy GERs.

  • MATH 131 (College Algebra for science majors)

  • BIOL 106 (Fundamentals of cell biology) and

  • CHEM 101 - General Chemistry (Prerequisite MATH 131)

Learn more about the program courses you may take as part of the Chemistry major.

Core Courses (40 credits)

CoursecreditsName
CHEM 1024General Chemistry II
CHEM 2054Quantitative Analysis
CHEM 3075Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 3085Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 3104Instrumentation
CHEM 4054Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
CHEM 4014Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 4024Physical Chemistry II
CHEM 4031Seminar I
CHEM 4041Seminar II
CHEM 3134Biochemistry

Supporting Courses (24 credits)

CoursecreditsName
PHYS 3034Mechanics and Dynamics
PHYS 3044Heat, Electricity, and Magnetism
MATH 1324Pre-Calculus
MATH 2014Calculus I
MATH 2024Calculus II
BIOL 1034Botany

Electives (any courses totaling 15 credits)

CoursecreditsName
CHEM 4704Toxicology
CHEM 4904Polymer Chemistry
CHEM 4094Research & Individual Study
CHEM 2904Computational Chemistry
CHEM 4504Phytochemistry
CHEM 4104Forensic Chemistry
NANO 4003Nanotechnology

Remember! You must complete all major and prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher.

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule. 

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

ENGL 101

3

English Composition I

PSYC 201

3

General Psychology 

MATH 131

3

College Algebra

HIST xxx

3

History I Course

PHIL 102

3

Introduction to Logic

FRSEM 101

1

Freshman Seminar

Spring Semester (18 credits)

course

credits

name

MATH 132

4

Pre-Calculus

BIOL 106

4

Cell Biology

CHEM 101

4

General Chemistry I

MISY 150

3

Tech Fluency

HIST xxx

3

History II Course

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

ENGL 102

3

English Composition II

ANTH 207

3

Anthropology

WLIT 207

3

World Literature

BIOL 103

4

General Botany

HEED 1xx

3

Personal Health

Spring Semester (14 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 102

4

General Chemistry II

MATH 201

4

Calculus I

IDIS 102

3

Music and Dance

CHEM 290

3

Computational Chemistry

Fall Semester (17 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 307

5

Organic Chemistry

PHYS 303

4

Mechanics and Particle Dynamics

CHEM 205

4

Quantitative Analysis

CHEM 401

4

Physical Chemistry I

Spring Semester (17 credits)

course

credits

name

CHEM 308

5

Organic Chemistry II

PHYS 304

4

Heat and Electricity

CHEM 310 

4

Instrumentation

CHEM 313

4

Biochemistry

Fall Semester (13 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 403

1

Seminar in Chemistry I

CHEM 410

4

Forensic Chemistry

CHEM 405

4

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry

CHEM 490/450

4/3

Polymer Chemistry/Phytochemistry

Spring Semester (13 credits)

Course

credits

Name

CHEM 470/409

3/4

Toxicology/Research & Individual Study

CHEM 408

1

Seminar in Chemistry II

CHEM 402

4

Physical Chemistry II

MATH 202 

4

Calculus II

Related Natural Science Programs

Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Graduate

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Undergraduate

Biology

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Polymer and Material Sciences

Graduate

Biology and Life Sciences

Undergraduate
College

Chemistry lives in the Department of Natural Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Degree Type

Concentration

About

Go for the versatility of a medical degree without the time and money it takes to become a doctor or nurse. 

Introduction

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 31% increase in Physician Assistant (PA) job opportunities over the next 10 years. This higher than average growth is a sign that health care employers are looking to build out patient care teams to meet increasing demand for aging, chronic and critically ill populations.

A PA is not a doctor; however, these are master’s-level medical professionals who practice on interdisciplinary medical teams. According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), PAs can “diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and often serve as a patient's principal healthcare provider.”

Why become a Physician Assistant (PA)?

Just as there is a growing need for doctors and nurses, there is a critical need for PAs as well. This career has the potential to be personally fulfilling, financially lucrative, and offer better work/life balance than other fields in the medical profession. As practitioners who deliver patient care, PAs also have more space to nurture patient relationships, truly getting to know the unique stories of individual patients.  

Similarly to medical schools and nursing programs, PA programs are subject to accreditation and strict industry standards. However, where doctor and nurse training can require multiple advanced degrees and years of study, most PA programs can be completed in roughly 2 years. Graduates are able to put that education to work almost immediately, showing a clear return on investment for this well-respected career choice. 

Still undecided about pursuing a career as a PA? The AAPA highlights some other benefits to becoming a PA.  

Biology students can also choose from 2 other concentrations to learn the foundational skills that prepare you for advanced study, or any medical career with research or analytical responsibilities:

Learn how to: 

  • Apply core biological science concepts to real world scenarios

  • Master the scientific method and scientific primary literature, experiment design and application, as well as data evaluation

  • Apply biological knowledge to individual, community, and global issues

  • Master basic laboratory skills and techniques across multiple biology disciplines

  • Think critically to formulate problems, gather and analyze data, as well as interpret results

  • Effectively communicate biological information to the scientific community through written and oral formats

  • Translate and apply skills to graduate or professional studies and/or career goals 

  • Demonstrate scientifically ethical conduct, as well as an awareness of legal and ethical implications of scientific issues in society

 

The Pre-Physician Assistant focus of this program is designed to help students apply biological science theories, principles, and techniques to careers and professional programs related to medicine, pharmacy, and physician assistantships.  

Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the Biology and Life Sciences program, students must be currently enrolled and in good academic standing. It also helps if you’re excited about and interested in a career in science!

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Life Sciences, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among: 

  • General Education Requirements, or GERs  

  • Core major courses  

  • Supporting major courses

  • Electives 

General Education Requirements (GERs)

All students must complete 40 GER credits. In addition, all science majors must also take these courses to satisfy GERs:

  • MATH 131 (College Algebra for science majors)  

  • BIOL 106 (Fundamentals of cell biology)

  • CHEM 101 - General Chemistry (Prerequisite MATH 131) 

Learn more about the program courses you may take as part of the Pre-Physician Assistant track within the Applied Sciences concentration of the Biology major.

Core Courses (38 credits)

CoursecreditsName
BIOL 1034Botany
BIO 1044Zoology
BIOL 2014Anatomy and Physiology I
BIOL 2034Anatomy and Physiology II
BIOL 3024Animal Histology
BIOL 3054Animal Physiology
BIOL 3084Microbiology
BIOL 4024Principles of Genetics
BIOL 4104Molecular Biology 
BIOL 4031Seminar I
BIOL 4041Seminar II

Supporting Courses (33 credits)

CoursecreditsName
CHEM 1024General Chemistry II
CHEM 3075Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 3085Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 3134Biochemistry
MATH 1324Pre-Calculus
PHYS 3014Physics I
PHYS 3024Physics II
MATH 2033Statistics

Electives (9 credits)

CoursecreditsName
BIOL 4014General Ecology
BIOL 3014Animal Embryology
BIOL 3033Neuroscience: Research & Analysis
PHSC 3064Earth and Space Science
XXX xxx3 or 4Advised Course

Remember! You must complete all major and prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher.

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule. 

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

ENGL 101

3

English Composition I

PSYC 201

3

General Psychology 

MATH 131

3

College Algebra

HIST xxx

3

History I Course

PHIL 102

3

Introduction to Logic

FRSEM

1

Freshman Seminar

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course

credits

name

MATH 132

4

Pre-Calculus

BIOL 106

4

Cell Biology

CHEM 101

4

General Chemistry I

ENGL 102

3

English Composition II

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

HIST xxx

3

History II Course

ANTH 207

3

Anthropology

WLIT 207

3

World Literature

BIOL 103

4

General Botany

MIST 150 (or HEED 101, GEOG 102)

3

Tech Fluency

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 102

4

General Chemistry II

BIOL 201

4

Anatomy and Physiology I

IDIS 103  (or Foreign Lang, ART 103, Music 201, Dance 226, Theater 211, Speech 105)

3

Visual Arts & Theater

BIOL 104

4

General Zoology

Fall Semester (17 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 307

5

Organic Chemistry (only offered in the Fall)

PHYS 301

4

General Physics (only offered in the Fall)

BIOL 302

4

Animal Histology (only offered in the Fall)

BIOL 203

4

Anatomy and Physiology II

Spring Semester (17 credits)

course

credits

name

CHEM 308

5

Organic Chemistry II (only offered in the Spring)

PHYS 302

4

Physics II (only offered in the Spring)

BIOL 305

4

Animal Physiology (only offered in the Spring)

BIOL xxx

4

Program Elective [Animal Embryology (BIOL 301) only offered in the Spring / Earth & Space Science (PHSC 306)]

Fall Semester (12 credits)

Course

credits

name

BIOL 403

1

Seminar in Biology I

BIOL 308

4

Microbiology

MATH 203

3

Statistics

BIOL xxx

4

Program Elective (BIOL 303 - only offered in the fall semester or PHSC 306 Earth and Space Science)

Spring Semester (13 credits)

Course

credits

Name

BIOL 404

1

Seminar II

BIOL 402

4

Principles of Genetics (only offered in the Spring)

CHEM 313

4

Biochemistry (only offered in the Spring)

BIOL 410

4

Molecular Biology (only offered in the Spring)

Related Natural Science Programs

Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Graduate

Biology and Life Sciences

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Undergraduate

Biology

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Polymer and Material Sciences

Graduate
College

Biology and Life Sciences lives in the Department of Natural Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Degree Type

Concentration

About

Any place where medical professionals provide patient care is a place that needs access to a qualified pharmacist.

Introduction

Like the field of medicine, pharmacy has a strong foundation in the biological sciences. Many people interact with pharmacists to pick up doctor-ordered prescriptions, but pharmacists do so much more than dose medications. Like other medical professionals and practitioners, pharmacists need a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and math. Pharmacists also need communication skills to educate patients, medical professionals, and the public on new medication usages, dosages, and the regulatory environment around new, life-saving pharmaceuticals.

Our Pre-Pharmacy concentration makes your transition to pharmacy school a seamless one. With courses that meet pharmacy prerequisite requirements, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an industry leader ready to educate, innovate, and impact transformational change.

You can choose to major or minor in Biology.

Learn how to: 

  • Apply core biological science concepts to real world scenarios

  • Master the scientific method and scientific primary literature, experiment design and application, as well as data evaluation

  • Apply biological knowledge to individual, community, and global issues

  • Master basic laboratory skills and techniques across multiple biology disciplines

  • Think critically to formulate problems, gather and analyze data, as well as interpret results

  • Effectively communicate biological information to the scientific community through written and oral formats

  • Translate and apply skills to graduate or professional studies and/or career goals 

  • Demonstrate scientifically ethical conduct, as well as an awareness of legal and ethical implications of scientific issues in society

Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

The Pre-pharmacy concentration focuses on helping students apply biological science theories, principles, and techniques to careers and professional programs related to medicine, pharmacy, and physician assistantships.

Biology students can choose from 2 other concentrations to learn the foundational skills that prepare you for advanced study, or any medical career with research or analytical responsibilities:

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the Biology and Life Sciences program, students must be currently enrolled and in good academic standing. It also helps if you’re excited about and interested in a career in science!

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Life Sciences, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among:

  • General Education Requirements, or GERs

  • Core major courses

  • Supporting major courses

  • Electives

General Education Requirements (GERs)

All students must complete 40 GER credits. In addition, all science majors must also take these courses to satisfy GERs:

  • MATH 131 (College Algebra for science majors)  

  • BIOL 106 (Fundamentals of cell biology)

  • CHEM 101 - General Chemistry (Prerequisite MATH 131) 

Learn more about the program courses you may take as part of the Pre-pharmacy track within the Applied Sciences concentration of the Biology major.

Core Courses (30 credits)

CoursecreditsName
BIOL 1034Botany
BIO 1044Zoology
BIOL 2014Anatomy and Physiology I
BIOL 2034Anatomy and Physiology II
BIOL 3084Microbiology
BIOL 4024Principles of Genetics
BIOL 4104Molecular Biology 
BIOL 4031Seminar I
BIOL 4041Seminar II

Supporting Courses (41 credits)

CoursecreditsName
CHEM 1024General Chemistry II
CHEM 3075Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 3085Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 3134Biochemistry
MATH 1324Pre-Calculus
PHYS 3014Physics I
PHYS 3024Physics II
MATH 2014Calculus I
MATH 2024Calculus II
MATH 2033Statistics

Electives (9 credits)

CoursecreditsName
BIOL 3024Animal Histology
BIOL 3054Animal Physiology
BIOL 3034Neuroscience: Research & Analysis
PHSC 3064Earth and Space Science
XXX xxx3 or 4Advised Course
BIOL 4013Ecology
CHEM 4054Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 

Remember! You must complete all major and prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher.

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule.

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course

credits

name

ENGL 101

3

English Composition I

PSYC 201

3

General Psychology

MATH 131

3

College Algebra

HIST xxx

3

History I Course

PHIL 102

3

Introduction to Logic

FRESEM 101

1

Freshman Seminar

Spring Semester (18 credits)

course

credits

name

MATH 132

4

Pre-Calculus

BIOL 106

4

Cell Biology

CHEM 101

4

General Chemistry I

MISY 150 (or HEED 101 or GEOG 102)

3

Tech Fluency

HIST xxx

3

History II Course

Fall Semester (13 credits)

Course

credits

name

ENGL 102

3

English Composition II

ANTH 207

3

Anthropology

WLIT 207

3

World Literature

BIOL 103

4

General Botany

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 102

4

General Chemistry II

BIOL 201

4

Anatomy and Physiology I

IDIS 103 (or Foreign Lang, ART 103, Music 201, Dance 226, Theater 211, Speech 105)

3

Music and Dance

BIOL 104

4

General Zoology

Fall Semester (17 credits)

Course

credits

name

CHEM 307

5

Organic Chemistry (only offered in the Fall)

PHYS 301

4

General Physics (only offered in the Fall)

BIOL 308

4

Microbiology

BIOL 203

4

Anatomy and Physiology II

Spring Semester (17 credits)

course

credits

name

CHEM 308

5

Organic Chemistry II (only offered in the Spring)

PHYS 302

4

Physics II (only offered in the Spring)

MATH 201 

4

Calculus I

BIOL 410

4

Molecular Biology (only offered in the Spring)

Fall Semester (12 credits)

Course

credits

name

BIOL 403

1

Seminar in Biology I

BIOL xxx

4

Program elective (BIOL 303 Neuroscience Res & Anal or BIOL 302 Animal Histology)

MATH 203

3

Statistics

MATH 202

4

Calculus II

Spring Semester (13 credits)

Course

credits

Name

BIOL 404

1

Seminar II

BIOL 402

4

Principles of Genetics (only offered in the Spring)

CHEM 313

4

Biochemistry (only offered in the Spring)

BIOL xxx

4

Program Elective (BIOL 301/305/ BIOL 204 Embryology/Animal Physiology or Vertebrate Structure and Development – only offered in the Spring)

Related Natural Science Programs

Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Graduate

Biology and Life Sciences

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Undergraduate

Biology

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Polymer and Material Sciences

Graduate
College

Biology and Life Sciences lives in the Department of Natural Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Degree Type

Concentration

About

See yourself in that white coat—whether that’s as a medical practitioner, scientist, or researcher, our Pre-Med program gets you there. 

Introduction

The field of medicine incorporates concepts from a range of different disciplines including ethics, business, and even philosophy. In addition to these disciplines, the biological sciences is a vast field that overlaps with the other natural sciences. Recent data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) suggests the majority of applicants and matriculants to U.S. medical schools have undergraduate degrees in the biological sciences. So if you decide to pursue this major, you’ll be in good company.  

You can choose to major or minor in Biology

Learn how to: 

  • Apply core biological science concepts to real world scenarios
  • Master the scientific method and scientific primary literature, experiment design and application, as well as data evaluation
  • Apply biological knowledge to individual, community, and global issues
  • Master basic laboratory skills and techniques across multiple biology disciplines>
  • Think critically to formulate problems, gather and analyze data, as well as interpret results
  • Effectively communicate biological information to the scientific community through written and oral formats
  • Translate and apply skills to graduate or professional studies and/or career goals
  • Demonstrate scientifically ethical conduct, as well as an awareness of legal and ethical implications of scientific issues in society
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

The Pre-Medicine focus of this program is designed to help students apply biological science theories, principles, and techniques to careers and professional programs related to medicine, pharmacy, and physician assistantships.  

Biology students can choose from 2 other concentrations to learn the foundational skills that prepare you for advanced study, or any medical career with research or analytical responsibilities:

Admission requirements

To be eligible for admission to the Biology and Life Sciences program, students must be currently enrolled and in good academic standing. It also helps if you’re excited about and interested in a career in science!  

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Life Sciences, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among: 

  • General Education Requirements, or GERs  
  • Core major courses  
  • Supporting major courses 
  • Electives 

General Education Requirements (GERs)

All students must complete 40 GER credits. In addition, all science majors must also take these courses to satisfy GERs:

  • MATH 131 (College Algebra for science majors)  
  • BIOL 106 (Fundamentals of cell biology)
  • CHEM 101 - General Chemistry (Prerequisite MATH 131) 

Learn more about the program courses you may take as part of the Pre-medicine track within the Applied Sciences concentration of the Biology major.

Core Courses (34 credits)

Course credits Name
BIOL 103 4 Botany
BIO 104 4 Zoology
BIOL 201 4 Anatomy and Physiology I
BIOL 203 4 Anatomy and Physiology II

BIOL 305

4

Animal Physiology 

BIOL 308 4 Microbiology

BIOL 402

4 Principles of Genetics

BIOL 410

4

Molecular Biology 

BIOL 403 1 Seminar I
BIOL 404 1

Seminar II

Supporting Courses (37 credits)

Course credits Name
CHEM 102 4 General Chemistry II
CHEM 307 5 Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 308 5 Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 313 4 Biochemistry

MATH 132

4

Pre-Calculus

PHYS 301 4 Physics I
PHYS 302 4 Physics II
MATH 201 4 Calculus I
MATH 203 3 Statistics

Electives (9 credits)

Course credits Name
BIOL 302 4 Animal Histology
BIOL 303 4 Neuroscience: Research & Analysis

BIOL 301

4

Animal Embryology

BIOL 401 4

Ecology

PHSC 306 4 Earth and Space Science

Remember! You must complete all major and prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher.

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule. 

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
PSYC 201 3 General Psychology 
MATH 131 3 College Algebra
HIST xxx 3 History I Course

PHIL 102

or 

PHIL 103

3

Introduction to Logic

or

Philosophy

FRSEM 101 1 Freshman Seminar

Spring Semester (18 credits)

course credits name
MATH 132 4 Pre-Calculus
BIOL 106 4 Cell Biology
CHEM 101 4 General Chemistry I
MISY 150 (or HEED 101 or GEOG 102) 3 Tech Fluency
HIST xxx 3 History II Course

Fall Semester (13 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
ANTH 207 3 Anthropology
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
BIOL 103 4 General Botany

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
CHEM 102 4 General Chemistry II
BIOL 201 4 Anatomy and Physiology I
IDIS 103 (or Foreign Lang, ART 103, Music 201, Dance 226, Theater 211, Speech 105) 3 Visual Arts & Theatre
BIOL 104 4 General Zoology

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
CHEM 307 5 Organic Chemistry (only offered in the Fall)
PHYS 301 4 General Physics (only offered in the Fall)
MATH 203 3 Statistics
BIOL 203 4 Anatomy and Physiology II

Spring Semester (17 credits)

course credits name
CHEM 308 5 Organic Chemistry II (only offered in the Spring)
PHYS 302 4 Physics II (only offered in the Spring)

BIOL 305

4

Animal Physiology (only offered in the Spring)

BIOLxxx 4 Program elective [BIOL 301 (Animal Embryology / PHSC 306 (Earth & Space Science]

Fall Semester (13 credits)

Course credits name
BIOL 403 1 Seminar in Biology I
BIOL 308 4 Microbiology
BIOL xxx 4 Program Elective (such as BIOL 302, BIOL 303 -both only offered in the fall)
MATH 201 4 Calculus

Spring Semester (13 credits)

Course credits Name
BIOL 404 1 Seminar II
BIOL 402 4 Principles of Genetics (only offered in the Spring)
CHEM 313 4 Biochemistry (only offered in the Spring)
BIOL 410 4 Molecular Biology (only offered in the Spring)

Related Natural Science Programs

Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Graduate

Biology and Life Sciences

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Undergraduate

Biology

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Polymer and Material Sciences

Graduate
College

Biology and Life Sciences lives in the Department of Natural Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education

Minor in Biology

Minor in Biology

Degree Type

Minor

About

Biology is the science that saves lives. Learn how to use the study of living things to innovate solutions that help us thrive.

Minor Requirements

To graduate with a minor in biology, students must complete 18 credit hours with a grade of “C’ or better in each minor course:  

  • BIOL 103 General Botany
  • BIOL 104 General Zoology
  • BIOL 308 Microbiology
  • 6 elective biology credits

Additional Minor Requirements for Nursing Students

There are a few more course requirements for nursing students who want to pursue a biology minor. Those course requirements are:  

  • BIOL 103 General Botany
  • BIOL 402 Principles of Genetics or CHEM 102 General Chemistry II
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Related Program

Biology and Life Sciences

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate
College

Biology is in the Department of Natural Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education

Biology and Life Sciences

Biology and Life Sciences

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

Biology is the science that saves lives. Learn how to use the study of living things to innovate solutions that help us thrive. 

Introduction

From enormous plants and animals to the smallest cells and microbes, the field of biology offers numerous opportunities to learn more about our world around us. Whether you want to be in a lab, classroom, medical care facility, or the great outdoors, you’ll leave this program with the tools of scientific curiosity, analysis, and inquiry that can take you anywhere.  

You can choose to major or minor in Biology

Learn how to: 

  • Apply core biological science concepts to real world scenarios

  • Master the scientific method and scientific primary literature, experiment design and application, as well as data evaluation

  • Apply biological knowledge to individual, community, and global issues

  • Master basic laboratory skills and techniques across multiple biology disciplines

  • Think critically to formulate problems, gather and analyze data, as well as interpret results

  • Effectively communicate biological information to the scientific community through written and oral formats

  • Translate and apply skills to graduate or professional studies and/or career goals 

  • Demonstrate scientifically ethical conduct, as well as an awareness of legal and ethical implications of scientific issues in society

Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

This curriculum is designed for students interested in learning and applying scientific knowledge towards careers in biomedicine, allied health professions, and environmental sciences. You’ll get experience in biology lab instrumentation, biotechnology methods, as well as the study of models and physiology experiments. Courses in plant and animal sciences, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, cell and molecular biology, and environmental science provide in-depth instruction in fundamental concepts and theories, principles, and techniques.

In the area of applied sciences, choose from 3 concentration options and get a head start into your medical or pharmaceutical career: 

Regardless of your chosen concentration, our Biology and Life Sciences degree prepares students for advanced study, or any medical career with research or analytical responsibilities. 

Admission requirements

To be eligible for admission to the Biology and Life Sciences program, students must be currently enrolled and in good academic standing. It also helps if you’re excited about and interested in a career in science!

Program Requirements

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Life Sciences, students must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among:

  • General Education Requirements, or GERs
  • Core major courses
  • Supporting major courses
  • Electives

General Education Requirements (GERs)

All students must complete 40 GER credits. In addition, all science majors must also take these courses to satisfy GERs. 

  • MATH 131 (College Algebra for science majors)
  • BIOL 106 (Fundamentals of cell biology) and
  • CHEM 101 - General Chemistry (Prerequisite MATH 131)

Core Courses (38 credits)

Course credits Name
BIOL 103 4 Botany
BIO 104 4 Zoology
BIOL 201 4 Anatomy and Physiology I
BIOL 203 4 Anatomy and Physiology II

BIOL 305

or

BIOL 204

4

Animal Physiology 

or

Vertebrate Structure and Development

BIOL 308 4 Microbiology
BIOL 401 4 General Ecology

BIOL 402

4 Principles of Genetics

BIOL 410

4

Molecular Biology 

BIOL 403 1 Seminar I
BIOL 404 1

Seminar II

Supporting Courses (34 credits)

Course credits Name
CHEM 102 4 General Chemistry II
CHEM 307 5 Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 308 5 Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 313 4 Biochemistry

MATH 132

4

Pre-Calculus

PHYS 301 4 Physics I
PHYS 302 4 Physics II
MATH 201 4 Calculus I

Electives (8 credits)

Course credits Name
BIOL 302 4 Animal Histology
BIOL 303 3 Neuroscience: Research & Analysis
BIOL 411 4 Molecular Biotechniques & Applications
BIOL 470 4 General Virology

PHSC 306

4

Earth and Space Science

XXX xxx 3 or 4 Advised Course

Remember! You must complete all major and prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher.

Sample Degree Plan

This plan is only for example purposes. Your academic journey may be slightly different from another student’s, so be sure to always communicate with your academic advisor before finalizing your course schedule. 

  1. Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
PSYC 201 3 General Psychology 
MATH 131 3 College Algebra
HIST xxx 3 History I Course

PHIL 102

FRSEM 101

3

1

Introduction to Logic

Freshman Seminar

Spring Semester (18 credits)

course credits name
MATH 132 4 Pre-Calculus
BIOL 106 4 Cell Biology
CHEM 101 4 General Chemistry I
MISY 150 ( (or HEED 101 or GEOG 102) 3 Tech Fluency
HIST xxx 3 History II Course

Fall Semester (16 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
ANTH 207 3 Anthropology
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
BIOL 103 4 General Botany

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
CHEM 102 4 General Chemistry II
BIOL 201 4 Anatomy and Physiology I
IDIS 103 ((or Foreign Lang, ART 103, Music 201, Dance 226, Theater 211, Speech 105) 3 Music and Dance
BIOL 104 4 General Zoology

Fall Semester (17 credits)

Course credits name
CHEM 307 5 Organic Chemistry (only offered in the Fall)
PHYS 301 4 General Physics (only offered in the Fall)
BIOL 308 4 Microbiology
BIOL 203 4 Anatomy and Physiology II

Spring Semester (17 credits)

course credits name
CHEM 308 5 Organic Chemistry II (only offered in the Spring)
PHYS 302 4 Physics II (only offered in the Spring)

BIOL 305 

or

BIOL 204

4

Animal Physiology 

or

Vertebrate Structure and Development

CHEM 313 4 Biochemistry (only offered in the Spring)

Fall Semester (13 credits)

Course credits name
BIOL 403 1 Seminar in Biology I
BIOL xxx 4 Program Elective (such as BIOL 302, BIOL 303 -both only offered in the fall semester)
BIOL xxx/PHSC306 4 Program Elective
MATH 201 4 Calculus

Spring Semester (13 credits)

Course credits Name
BIOL 404 1 Seminar II
BIOL 402 4 Principles of Genetics (only offered in the Spring)
BIOL 410 4 Molecular Biology (only offered in the Spring)
BIOL 401 4 Ecology

Related Natural Science Programs

Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Graduate

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Undergraduate

Biology

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Polymer and Material Sciences

Graduate
College

Biology and Life Sciences lives in the Department of Natural Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education.

Department of Natural Sciences

Department of Natural Sciences

School of Arts & Sciences

We look to scientific inquiry and the natural sciences to explain our physical world, and discover new ones. 

Welcome to the Department of Natural Sciences! We offer an expanding range of programs where students take a deeper look at the chemical elements, cellular and molecular building blocks that make up our world. As you progress through our programs, you’ll strengthen analytical thinking, master technical problem solving, apply theories, tools, and techniques to solve complex challenges and prepare for graduate or professional studies.  

From our existing biology and chemistry majors and minors, to our new graduate programs in Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Polymer and Material Sciences, we pledge to be your partner as you strive toward your academic, personal, and professional goals.  

Our Research and Study Facilities

Get to know the Science and Technology Center, home to the Department of Natural Sciences! This LEED certified building has green spaces, student-focused collaboration spaces, a vivarium, as well as laboratories with cutting-edge technologies. 

The biology and chemistry programs each have specialized facilities where students can put theory into practice. Our biology labs have Thermocyclers, high-resolutions microscopes (Transmission and scanning electron microscopes, fluorescence and atomic force microscopes), as well as capabilities for tissue and cell culture, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencer, gel-imaging and documentation station, etc. Biology research labs, such as the Ophthalmic Research Laboratory,  Malaria Research Lab, and the Zebra fish lab, are equipped with state-of-the-art molecular biotechnology tools and equipment, multi-mode plate reader, and fluorescence microscope, with capabilities in biochemical, gene expression, and gene manipulation methodologies. The department has a highly advanced greenhouse with the Laboratory for Environmental Contaminants equipped with Atomic Absorption Spectroscope and other advanced instrumentation for students conducting research in environmental contaminants and geosciences.  

Several facilities that support chemistry research in our department include the Center for Nanotechnology and Center for Organic Synthesis, and Environmental chemistry labs working on a variety of projects related to environmental de-contamination and sustainability . Our chemistry labs also host capabilities in the areas of inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and computational chemistry. These labs have the latest technologies, including NMR, UV-VIS-IR spectrophotometers, fluorescence spectrophotometers, and gas chromatography.

State of the Art Lab Instruments and Facilities

Our Programs

Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Graduate

Biology and Life Sciences

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Medicine

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Pharmacy

Undergraduate

Biology: Pre-Physician Assistant

Undergraduate

Biology

Undergraduate

Chemistry

Undergraduate

Computational Chemistry

Undergraduate

Biochemistry

Undergraduate

Polymer and Material Sciences

Graduate

Faculty & Staff

Our faculty have a broad range of teaching and research interests. We work to always provide you with a modern curriculum and interactive learning strategies that prepare you to be high-achievers.

Hegde
Interim Chairperson and Professor of Biology & Biochemistry

faculty

Associate Professor of Biology

faculty

Emmanuel Atta-Obeng
Assistant Professor

faculty

Assistant Professor

faculty

Cindy Beharry
Teaching Laboratory Technician

staff

Laboratory Coordinator

staff

Associate Professor of Chemistry

faculty

William Emmanuel Ghann, PhD.
Research Associate

faculty

Interim Dean and Professor

faculty

Instrumentation Technician

faculty

Assistant Professor

faculty

Professor of Chemistry

faculty

Can Help With
Undergraduate chemistry majors
Graduate chemistry majors
Professor of Biology

faculty

Dr. Hany Sobhi
Professor of Chemistry

faculty

Can Help With
Organic & Clinical Chemistry (Biomarkers & Lipid Research)
Forensic Chemistry (Toxins & Drug Analysis)
Polymer Chemistry (Biomedical Applications)
Professor of Chemistry

faculty

Can Help With
Solar Cell Fabrication and Characterization
Nanomaterial Synthesis, Characterization and Application
Electrospinning and its applications
Administrative Assistant

staff

Can Help With
Academic questions
Career opportunities
Appointments with faculty and staff
Teaching Laboratory Technician

staff

Grants, Research, and Partnerships

We actively seek federal and state research grants, as well as corporate sponsorships to support undergraduate research efforts. We also stay dedicated to our students, regularly offering STEM scholarships to support their educational journey. We are also introducing Graduate Research Assistantships for the newly launched graduate programs in Applied Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Polymer and Material Sciences.

Aligning with University goals, we recommit each year to community and business partnerships. These partnerships support our initiatives to meet workforce demands, prepare globally competent students and graduates, and strengthen economic development of the greater Baltimore region and State of Maryland.

Interested in building a new partnership?

Connect with Dr. Jiru!

We pledge to be your partner in your quest to reach your academic and personal goals. Our programs give a wide array of opportunities and students who graduated from the Department pursue either graduate studies (MS/PhD) or professional schools (medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy…). We are here to help you unleash your potential.

Dr. Kavita Hegde, Interim Chair

A smiling male student types on a computer

Writing Center

students walking upstairs

Math Center

Get peer and professional help for all kinds of math problems.

Current student? Report a complaint or concern.

Report a concern or complaint

Our Current and Former Students

Abdullahi Adams

Engaging in research projects under the guidance of dedicated faculty mentors sharpened my scientific reasoning, and strengthened my ability to thrive in multidisciplinary industry settings.

Abdullahi Adams B.S. Polymer and Material Science
Read Story
Chika Iwuji

I like the thought that there is a science to everything we see and do.

Chika Iwuji B.S. Biology
Read Story
Sunil Yadav

The Department of Natural Sciences at Coppin always put me in a position to succeed. I had access to extraordinary faculty members who went above and beyond to make sure my educational and professional development needs were met.

Sunil Yadav B.S. Biology
Read Story
Natasha Wedderburn department of science former student

The Department of Natural Sciences speaks for itself. In order to earn your degree at that time, you had to pass an exit exam, write a thesis, and present your thesis.

Natasha Wedderburn B.S. Biology
Read Story
Adrian Jones former department of sciences student

Having a BS in Biology gave me a solid foundation for higher education opportunities that I was interested in pursuing.

Adrian Jones B.S. Biology
Read Story
College

The Department of Natural Sciences is within School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education.

Minor in Dance

Minor in Dance

Degree Type

Minor

About

The value of dance extends beyond the stage. Learn how to make moves—and make those moves work for you—across communities, cultures, and professional industries.

Minor Requirements

To graduate with a minor in Dance, students must complete 20 credit hours across 3 different areas:

  • Core courses (6 credits)
  • Dance Technique and/or Cultural Studies (12 credits)
  • Body science (2 credits)

Dance Core Courses (6 credits)

COURSEcreditsNAME
DANC 2003Dance as Art and Culture
DANC 2263Fundamentals of Choreography
DANC 3253Dance History
DANC 4203Introduction to Dance Therapy
DANC 4263Dance Production

Dance Technique and/or Cultural Studies (12 credits)

COURSEcreditsNAME
DANC 1162Studies in Cultural Rhythms
DANC 1172Studies in Cultural Composition
DANC 1192Urban Contemporary Dance
DANC 2202Ballet Fundamentals
DANC 2212Fundamentals of Modern Dance
DANC 2273Sacred Modern Dance I
DANC 2283Jazz and Musical Theater I
DANC 2353African Dance I
DANC 2363African Dance Repertory 
DANC 3243Advanced Tap Dance

Body Science Technique Courses (2 credits)

COURSEcreditsNAME
DANC 1012Introduction to Pilates
Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Related Program

Dance

Undergraduate
College

Dance is in the Department of Humanities in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education.

Dance

Dance

dance student in the studio
Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

About

The value of a dance degree is as vast as our current society. A Dance major provides a valuable set of skills in the performing arts and humanities. Learn how to make moves—and make those moves work for you—across communities, cultures, disciplines, and professional industries. 

Introduction

Dance is so many different things. Not only an art, dance can also be a language or means of expression, a mode of inquiry, and a tool for healing. It can be an act of protest or celebration. It can be a method to honor, recognize, engage, and transform cultural traditions. Dance in an interdisciplinary medium that offers opportunities to learn skills that translate into other fields and industries.  

Embodied skills that so many employers look for can be found in the study of dance. Dancers are skilled at body awareness which can translate to strong communication and interpersonal skills. Dance is a multilayered field where artists dance, write, make films, dance in specific sites, collaborate with others, and engage their communities. Choreographers must think critically and creatively about the interplay of dancers’ bodies, music, and movements that come together to make something beautiful or thought-provoking.  Dance artists are also scholars who work between social praxis and their communities to promote and engage new work. Dance artists are important innovators of new modes of making dance performance through collaboration.

The dance program at Coppin provides dancers with a culturally diverse training program that celebrates and promotes contributions of marginalized artists of color to mainstream arts communities. We maintain an important focus on African, African American, and Caribbean forms, as well as choreographic practices, production, dance studies, and somatics. Our balanced program, asks students to contemplate and reflect on their experiences and praxis in the context of professional global contemporary dance work. 

You can choose to major or minor in Dance

Dance to a Different Beat

Approved as a program in 2009 by the University System of Maryland (USM), the Dance major focuses on technical, cultural and performance education. Our students look at the art form through a critical and creative lens in ways that prepare them for real life dance experiences. We also focus on expanding our students' understanding of dance as an art form, engaged practices, mode of healing, and as areas of interdisciplinary research and creation.

Faculty support students academically and professionally, and encourage conversation around professional opportunities in dance education, performance, and choreography. We also encourage our students to pave their own paths and study a complementary field like English, History, Drama, Urban Arts, Black Studies, Film, Global Studies, Political Science, Marketing, Arts Administration, Education, or Technology. The possibilities for interdisciplinary work are encouraged in our Liberal Arts Dance Program. 

The Program organizes masterclasses, workshops and performance opportunities, both on and off campus.

Students studying

750+ Course Options

The Coppin State University Academic Catalog has a wide variety of skill-building courses designed to inspire and prepare you to be in-demand professionals and transformational leaders.

Incoming Dance Major Requirements

Welcome to Coppin Dance! We are excited to welcome you into a program committed to preparing you for a career in dance. Here’s what every hopeful student must know before officially declaring as a dance major:

  • Incoming dance majors and minors should contact the Dance Coordinator immediately upon entering the University for a movement placement audition. This audition is required prior to registering for courses.
  • Dance majors must register for dance technique courses immediately after declaring as a dance major.
  • All dance majors must complete all major courses with a grade of C or higher.
  • Dance majors with prior movement training (i.e. dance, gymnastics, etc.) may register for 200+ level movement technique courses. Upper-level movement technique courses require a registration permission code. Contact the Dance Coordinator for more information.
  • Dance majors must also complete DANC 226 Introduction to Choreography with a grade of C or higher.

Undergraduate Courses and Program Requirements

The Dance program offers a Bachelor of Science degree requiring 120 credits for graduation. We structure classes to be relatively small so dance faculty can work closely with each student. Our broad range of movement courses include African Dance, Caribbean Dance, ballet, jazz, hip hop, yoga, somatic, and contemporary dance. Our well-rounded program engages students in dance studies, improvisation, choreographic practices, production, and opportunities to present dance work.

To graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Dance, you must complete 120 credit hours. These credit hours split among:

  • General Education Requirements, or GERs

  • Required Theory courses

  • Core Movement Technique courses

  • Dance Performance courses

  • Professional Development and Internship courses

Required Theory Courses (12 credits)

All dance majors must complete DANC 325 and an additional 9 credits from the following courses:

CoursecreditsName
DANC 1303Dance Education
DANC 2003Dance as Art and Culture
DANC 3253Dance History-Dance Studies
DANC 3273Movement Analysis
DANC 3283Creative Process: Theory and Practice

Core Movement Techniques Courses (33 credits)

Dance majors must complete 33 dance technique credits. At least 15 credits of these credits must be completed at the 300 or 400 level. Students can petition for faculty approval to register for courses aligned with prior training or level of proficiency. Students may repeat these courses for credits toward graduation up to a maximum.

CoursecreditsName
DANC 1012Pilates I
DANC 1023Vinyasa Yoga
DANC 1162Cultural Rhythms I
DANC 1182Improvisation
DANC 1192Urban Contemporary Dance
DANC 1202Ballet Fundamentals I
DANC 1212Modern Dance Fundamentals 
DANC 1312Authentic Movement
DANC 2202Ballet Fundamentals II
DANC 2212Modern Fundamentals II
DANC 2273Sacred Modern Dance I
DANC 2283Musical Theater and Jazz Dance
DANC 2353African Dance I
DANC 2363African Dance II
DANC 3203Intermediate Ballet I
DANC 3213Intermediate Modern Dance I
DANC 3243Tap Dance
DANC 4403Advance Ballet I
DANC 4413Advanced Modern Dance I

Dance Performance Courses (9 credits)

Any student, including majors and non-majors, taking a dance performance course must also register to take at least one dance technique course at the same time.   

All dance majors must complete the following courses to satisfy dance performance course requirements: 

  • DANC 425 (Professional Outreach Workshop) or DANC 426 (Dance Production)

        and 

  • 4 credits of 300-400 Dance Company courses from this list or through substitution as determined with your advisor:

CoursecreditsName
DANC 1221Dance Company I
DANC 1231Dance Company II
DANC 2221Dance Company III
DANC 2231Dance Company IV
DANC 3221Dance Company V
DANC 3231Dance Company VI
DANC 4221Dance Company VII
DANC 4231Dance Company VIII

Students may repeat Dance Company courses for credits toward graduation up to a maximum.

Professional Development and Internship Courses (6 credits)

All dance majors must complete these courses: 

CoursecreditsName
DANC 3293Professional Outreach 
DANC 4273Dance Internship

Remember! You must complete all major and prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher.

Repeat Course Policy for Dance Majors

As a dance major, you may repeat movement technique and dance company courses. You may be able to apply repeated major coursework toward graduation in accordance with our departmental policy:

  • 1 credit courses may be repeated for up to 3 credits towards graduation
  • 2 credit courses may be repeated for up to 6 credits toward graduation
  • 3 credit courses may be repeated for up to 9 credits toward graduation

Dance majors can meet upper level course requirements by repeating the following courses in accordance with departmental policy:

  • DANC 320
  • DANC 321
  • DANC 322
  • DANC 323
  • DANC 325
  • DANC 328
  • DANC 329
  • DANC 420
  • DANC 421
  • DANC 422
  • DANC 423
  • DANC 427
  • DANC 440
  • DNC 441
  • DANC 499
  • All core movement technique classes
  • All performance courses
  • All theory courses

Sample Degree Plan

Be sure to connect with your academic advisor to plan your semester courses. The plan below is just an example—your journey may have different requirements.

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
ENGL 101 3 English Composition I
BIOL 101 4 Biological Sciences
FRSEM 101 1 Freshman Seminar
DANC 226 3 Introduction to Choreography
DANC 100-200 2 Movement Technique
DANC 100-200 1 Dance Company
DANC 499 1 Special Topics

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course credits name
ENGL 102 3 English Composition II
PHSC 103 3 Physical Science
MATH 3 Math Requirement
DANC 100-200 2 Movement Technique
DANC 1 Dance Company
MISY 150  3 Tech Fluency

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
ECON 103 3 Intro to Business/Entrepreneurial
ART 103 3 Basic Design
DANC 205 3  
DANC 499 1 Special Topics
DANC 200-300 2 Movement Technique
DANC 200-300 2 Movement Technique
DANC 1 Dance Company

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
WLIT 207 3 World Literature
THEA 211 3 Acting for Non-Majors 
DANC 200 3 Dance as Art and Culture
DANC 200-300 2 Movement Technique
DANC 200-300 3 Movement Technique
DANC 1 Dance Company

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
ANTH 207 3 Cultural Anthropology
DANC 325 3 Dance History
DANC 300-400 2 Movement Technique
DANC 300-400 3 Movement Technique
DANC 1 Dance Company
DANC 3 University Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

course credits name
DANC 327 3 Movement Analysis
DANC 328 3 Creative Process
DANC 300-400 3 Movement Technique
DANC 300-400 3 Movement Technique
DANC 1 Dance Company
DANC 2 Dance Elective

Fall Semester (15 credits)

Course credits name
DANC 329 3 Professional Outreach
DANC 300-400 3 Movement Technique
DANC 300-400 3 Movement Technique
DANC 300-400 1 Dance Company
DANC xxx 2 Dance Elective
XXXX xxx 3 University Elective

Spring Semester (15 credits)

Course credits Name
DANC 426 3 Dance Production
DANC 427 3 Internship
DANC 3 University Elective
XXXX xxx 3 University Elective
XXXX xxx 3 University Elective

Related Humanities Programs

Dance

Undergraduate

Urban Arts

Undergraduate

African American Studies

Undergraduate

Global Studies

Undergraduate

History

Undergraduate

English

Undergraduate
College

Dance lives in the Department of Humanities in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education.

Dance Program

Dance at Coppin State University—Where Creativity, Culture, and Community Move Together!

Department of Humanities

dancers on stage leap with arms raised

Welcome to Coppin State University’s Dance Program! A space where movement meets meaning. Our program nurtures versatile, visionary artists through rigorous training in performance, choreography, technology, and cultural studies. Grounded in the rich traditions of the African diaspora and committed to innovation, our students learn to lead, collaborate, and advocate through dance.

Whether you're aspiring to perform, teach, create, or lead in the arts, Coppin Dance prepares you to make an impact on stage, in your community, and the world.

Mission

Our mission is to cultivate a dynamic and inclusive dance education that empowers students through rigorous training in dance performance, technology, and production. We center the cultural and historical significance of dance, especially within the African diaspora, to broaden perspectives through scholarship and creative inquiry.

We are committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive community where diversity is celebrated, and dance serves as a catalyst for civic engagement, social change, and economic growth.

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Master Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate skill in traditional and contemporary dance forms.
  • Understand Culture and History: Examine the cultural, historical, and political roots of dance with an emphasis on African diasporic forms.
  • Think Critically and Research Deeply: Analyze performances, texts, and traditions through scholarly inquiry and embodied practice.
  • Choreograph with Purpose: Create innovative work that reflects personal voice, cultural knowledge, and artistic expression.
  • Prepare for Professional Careers: Navigate the professional world of dance through training in entrepreneurship, education, and leadership.
  • Collaborate Across Disciplines: Integrate dance with technology and other art forms to produce collaborative, interdisciplinary projects.
  • Lead with Integrity: Commit to ethical practice, equity, and lifelong learning as artists and advocates in the global dance community.

Program Offerings

Dance

Undergraduate

Combine this with your Dance Major

Explore African American Studies
African American Studies Minor
Explore Non-Profit Management
Non-Profit Management Minor
Explore Psychology
Psychology Minor
Explore Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Certificate

Why Choose Coppin Dance?

  • Small class sizes with personalized mentorship
  • Training in studio and site-specific performance
  • Cultural immersion in African and African American dance traditions
  • Opportunities to choreograph, produce, and perform in concerts and community events
  • Access to masterclasses, internships, and interdisciplinary collaborations

Meet Our Faculty

At Coppin State University, our dance faculty are more than educators—they are practicing artists, scholars, choreographers, and community leaders who bring real-world experience and cultural depth into every classroom.

Our team is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of dancers through personalized instruction, creative collaboration, and a commitment to excellence rooted in Contemporary and Traditional forms.

Our Faculty Expertise Includes:

  • Modern, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Ballet Techniques
  • African and African American Dance Forms
  • Dance Pedagogy and Curriculum Design
  • Choreography and Creative Research
  • Community Arts and Civic Engagement
  • Dance Technology and Production
  • Arts Administration and Leadership

Contact Us

We are a faculty of artists, educators, and scholars committed to providing our students with comprehensive and diverse core training in dance technique and research.

Adjunct faculty members: Frances James, & Christina Pierangeli

Dance Coordinator & Assistant Professor

faculty

Can Help With
Information About the Dance Program and Degree Requirements
Advising on Dance Course Selection and Registration
Opportunities for Performances, Residencies, Community Partnerships, and Internships
Associate Professor

faculty

Faculty

faculty

Guest Artists & Mentors

We regularly invite guest choreographers, alums, and industry professionals to lead masterclasses, workshops, and projects, offering our students access to a wide range of voices and perspectives in the field.

Performances & Events

Coppin dancer performance two dancers in blue jumpsuits align on stage with one leg and arms raised

Coppin’s dance program centers performance as a core part of the learning experience. Through studio-based work, mainstage concerts, and off-campus opportunities, students engage in continuous practice that refines technique and expands artistic vision.

On-campus performances include:

  • Fall Dance Concert - A showcase of course projects and original choreography
  • Spring Dance Concert - A culminating performance featuring faculty, student, and guest choreographed works
  • Studio Night Informal Showings - Informal, student-led performance labs
  • Coppin Community Events and Performances

Off-campus opportunities may include:

  • CELEBRATION: Black History Month Showcase at the Gordon Center
  • American College Dance Festival Adjudication Concert
  • Local school residencies, community festivals, and events

Apply to the Dance Program

Discover everything you need to complete your Coppin State University and Dance Program applications with ease.

Learn How to Apply

Coppin dancer in the dance studio

Dance Scholarship Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Have questions about our Dance Program? Someone has probably already asked us! Check out what prospective students are most curious about, and if you still have questions after reviewing, reach out to us!  

No audition is required to join the Coppin Dance Program. If accepted into Coppin State University, you must declare Dance as your major or minor. 

However, to ensure proper placement in our technique classes, all incoming students must submit a Dance Placement Video before the start of their first semester.

While you do have to be admitted before you can register for courses, you don’t have to wait until you’re admitted to chat with the Dance Program Coordinator! You are welcome to schedule a conversation anytime during your application or admission process to chat about your career goals, program criteria, or other related topics.

At the beginning of the semester, each instructor communicates with students about any required attire for courses.

Our dance studio can accommodate 15-20 students in a movement class.

While we do not currently have a dedicated drummer on staff, when possible, we work to incorporate live drumming into classes to enhance the learning experience.

Yes! We are the proud home of the Coppin State University Dance Ensemble. Auditions are open at the start of every semester. To be eligible to join, be sure you’re registered for at least 1 dance technique course.

The Dance Ensemble sponsors masterclasses and workshops throughout the year, and an artists-in-residence program for visiting artists working in dance and technology. 

Coppin State University Recognized for Top Adult Programs for 2021

Writing Center

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Math Center

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College

The Dance Program lives in the Department of Humanities in the School of Arts & Sciences within the College of Arts & Sciences, and Education.