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Department of Natural and Health Sciences

Department of Natural and Health Sciences

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Faculty and Departments

  • Earth and Chemical Sciences Resources

Contact

Daniel Druckenbrod

Professor; Department Chair

Mike and Patti Hennessy Science and Technology Center

ddruckenbrod [at] rider.edu

609-895-5422

Academic Focus: Environmental Sciences

Explore life, health and the world around us

Rider University’s Department of Natural & Health Sciences brings together a broad range of scientific disciplines focused on understanding the natural world and improving human health. Through research-oriented and practice-based learning, students investigate living systems, human health, the physical world, and the environmental, marine, and public health challenges facing our communities.

Students learn in small classrooms, laboratories, and field settings where they receive direct, hands-on instruction and personalized support from faculty. Rigorous coursework, research, clinical and professional experiences, internships and fieldwork prepare graduates to enter scientific and health-related careers or continue to medical, professional or graduate school.

Our programs

  • Behavioral Neuroscience, B.S.
  • Biochemistry, B.S.
  • Biology, B.S./B.A.
  • Chemistry, B.A./B.S.
  • Earth Sciences, B.A.
  • Environmental Sciences, B.S.
  • Environmental Studies, B.A.
  • Exercise Science, B.S.
  • Health Sciences, B.S.
    • 4+2 M.S. in Athletic Training option with Thomas Jefferson University
  • RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)

  • Biology (minor)
  • Chemistry (minor)
  • Environmental Sciences (minor)
  • Marine Sciences (minor)
  • Movement Sciences (minor)
  • Sustainability Studies (minor)

  • Public Health Certificate

  • Pre-Medical, Pre-Veterinary and Pre-Dental Program
Student and faculty on a boat on Centennial Lake doing research

Our faculty

Our dedicated faculty are accomplished scholars, scientists and field professionals who bring advanced academic training, professional credentials and specialized research experience into the classroom. They serve as instructors, advisors and research mentors, supporting students’ development both inside and outside the classroom.

Each student receives personalized academic advising and career guidance tailored to their individual interests and professional goals.

Meet our faculty

A rigorous, hands-on scientific education

Students gain experience in classrooms, natural environments and other real-world settings. These opportunities help them connect scientific concepts across disciplines, strengthen their technical and analytical abilities, and develop the skills required for today’s scientific and health-related careers.
From studying biological processes to patient care, students receive a diverse and well-rounded education grounded in scientific inquiry and professional practice.

Why choose Rider?

We believe students learn best by applying what they study. Internships, fieldwork and faculty-guided research allow students to connect classroom knowledge with real-world challenges, gain professional experience and build valuable relationships.

Students are encouraged to become involved in independent research early in their college careers. Each year, many students work alongside faculty as researchers in laboratories and field settings. These close collaborations help students develop confidence, explore their interests and prepare for employment or advanced study.

Students in health and exercise-related programs also benefit from access to Rider’s 19 NCAA Division I athletic teams. Opportunities to work with student-athletes allow them to apply techniques and wellness strategies while developing their professional expertise. Previous students have completed on-campus internships with Rider’s Strength and Conditioning and Athletic Training programs, as well as off-campus internships aligned with their interests and career goals.

Explore field experiences

Rider’s laboratories, simulation spaces and teaching facilities give students practical experience with the tools, techniques and environments used by scientists and health professionals. The Human Performance Laboratory has state of the art equipment that students can use beginning in their freshman year. 

Students can explore scientific questions through laboratory and field research, practice responding to clinical scenarios, and deepen their understanding of concepts introduced in the classroom. Rider’s campus woods, streams, and Centennial Lake are used in Biology and Environmental Sciences courses for teaching and research.

Network with professionals, connect with faculty advisors and meet students who share your interests through scientific, health-related and professional student organizations.

Opportunities include:

  • Health Studies Institute
  • Pre-Health Society
  • Rider Dance Team
  • Rider University Emergency Medical Services
  • Earth, environmental and chemical sciences student organizations:
    • Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society (SAACS)
      Advisor: Dr. Jamie Ludwig
    • Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honor Society (GSE) 
      Advisor: Dr. Alexander Grushow
    • Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society
    • The Rider Green Team
Plants next to Science and Technology Center

Sustainability at Rider

Scientific knowledge plays a vital role in addressing the environmental challenges facing our communities and planet. Rider’s interdisciplinary Sustainability Studies minor examines the scientific, social and economic dimensions of sustainability.

The program complements Rider’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility and its pledge to become carbon neutral by 2050.

Learn about Sustainability at Rider

Take your passion further

Students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree may complete the undergraduate science prerequisites needed to apply to medical, dental, veterinary or graduate school.

View eligibility and admission requirements

A natural or health sciences degree from Rider can prepare students for careers in health care, scientific research, education, environmental protection, government, industry and the nonprofit sector.

Potential career paths include:

  • Athletic training
  • Chemistry and biochemistry
  • Dentistry
  • Diagnostic imaging
  • Environmental consulting and conservation
  • Exercise physiology and strength and conditioning
  • Genetic counseling
  • Health and wellness
  • Laboratory and field research
  • Medicine and veterinary medicine
  • Nursing
  • Occupational therapy
  • Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
  • Physical therapy
  • Physician assistant studies
  • Public and community health
  • Sustainability and environmental policy
  • Science and health education

Graduates also pursue advanced study in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, nursing, allied health, scientific research, and other scientific disciplines. Rider alumni contribute to private companies, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, academic institutions, health care organizations and research facilities.

Hear their stories

Our alumni use their scientific knowledge, clinical preparation and hands-on experience to improve human health, advance research and address environmental challenges.

View Rider alumni stories

Explore earth and chemical sciences alumni success stories

Faculty and Departments

  • Earth and Chemical Sciences Resources

Contact

Daniel Druckenbrod

Professor; Department Chair

Mike and Patti Hennessy Science and Technology Center

ddruckenbrod [at] rider.edu

609-895-5422

Academic Focus: Environmental Sciences

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Rider University
2083 Lawrenceville Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Main: 609-896-5000
Admissions: 800-257-9026

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