Natural Sciences

Meet Yuta Shimazu, PLU’s first data science graduate.

"The data science program definitely helped me stand out, and I believe it played a big role in helping me get a job at Sony."

Mason Taylor-Wells in front of Tacoma General Hospital

“I’ve had patients cry tears of joy because they’re able to stand (with some help) again. I can’t think of a better way to spend my summer.”

Biology major and pre-med student Mason Taylor-Wells ’27 discusses how the PLU Internship Fund brought an internship at Tacoma General within reach.

PJ Morales' '25 time at PLU is preparing her to be a role model and a counselor for high school students.

“I’m ready to be a mentor and a resource for high school students. I’m ready to be that person who shows care and empathy with no strings attached."

Ashley Akamine performs in Ho’olaule’a 2025: The Cultures of Hawai’i, an event to celebrate the different cultures Hawai’i represents, Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Olson Gymnasium at PLU.

Student-athlete Ashley Akamine ’25 makes data part of the game

“Whether it’s through research, engineering, or problem-solving, I hope to contribute to meaningful innovations that push the boundaries of what technology can do."

Justinpal Singh pondering chemistry notes on a whiteboard.

Justinpal Singh '25 will leave PLU centered in service, science, and creating community.

“I really wanted a university that was not necessarily competitive, but more so encouraging and fostered individual growth,” Justinpal shared. “I saw that at PLU.”

College of Natural Sciences

The College of Natural Sciences houses the Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Data Science, Earth Science, Environmental Studies, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology STEM Ed programs. It also offers dual-degree engineering and pre-health sciences advising.

The College of Natural Sciences prepares its majors for careers as science professionals and also provides all students the grounding in the scientific awareness vital for being a citizen in the modern world and participating in a democracy. Opportunities for close interactions abound, and the development of the whole person is a central concern. The College offers B.S. and B.A. degrees and minors in most programs, and it also provides supporting courses for other programs.