Academic departments and programs
Achieving global impact in the sciences and mathematics
Our seven departments and academic programs across the mathematical, physical and biological sciences are at the forefront of research and learning. OSU’s community of scientists is distinguished by a fearless spirit of innovation, a commitment to social progress and the pursuit of fundamental and applied knowledge. Our students gain a solid understanding of the scope and methods of modern science and mathematics. Oregon State science faculty, students and alumni are finding solutions to some of the world’s most critical issues in the areas of marine ecology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, drug discovery, nuclear decontamination and renewable energy.
Explore our academic departments
Biochemistry and Biophysics
The Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics is home to an internationally recognized group of scientists working on cutting-edge molecular life science research. We are known for innovative classroom pedagogies, research and teaching excellence, dedicated faculty advisors and extraordinary laboratories to facilitate hands-on student learning.
Chemistry
The Department of Chemistry is at the forefront of fundamental and applied research. Highly ranked in many research areas, the department is a national leader in discovering new chemical approaches to improve the environment, cure disease and build innovative, sustainable, clean energy applications.
Integrative Biology
The nationally ranked Department of Integrative Biology combines exceptional research and teaching across a wide range of life science fields, from ecology to human and animal health. Faculty engage in innovative research, teaching and training to address some of the world's most pressing challenges.
Mathematics
Oregon State University's Department of Mathematics is a vibrant center for undergraduate and graduate level studies. Tenured and tenure-track faculty engage in interdisciplinary, fundamental research that has impacts in geosciences, biology, numerical analysis, mathematics education and more.
Microbiology
The Department of Microbiology originated as a single course in 1899. It's since evolved into a world-class center for cutting-edge research on microbial communities in humans and animals. Faculty expertise includes environments encompassing coral reefs and the deep ocean, with a longstanding tradition of teaching excellence across the breadth of modern microbiology.
Physics
The Department of Physics is deeply committed to excellence in research, teaching and outreach, an important part of its mission. Our faculty are engaged in highly innovative and state-of-the-art research programs. Physicists at Oregon State have made path-breaking contributions to the development of leading technologies.
Statistics
Our research program in statistics is the only one of its kind in Oregon. The Department of Statistics is a vibrant community engaged in high quality research and education in statistics and statistical consulting. Faculty have made significant contributions to the development of theoretical statistics, data analytic methods and computational tools.
