Science Math and Research Training (SMART) Course
The Science Math and Research Training (SMART) course provides students the opportunity to learn introductory concepts and techniques from biology, chemistry and mathematics in two coupled courses associated with an integrated, discovery-based laboratory component. The SMART program is comprised of an integrated Biology-Chemistry course taught alongside a loosely coupled Calculus I and Calculus II course. The Biology-Chemistry course spans the fall and spring semesters and introduces topics from Introductory Biology and Introductory Chemistry in a thematic fashion; focusing on antibiotic resistance in the fall and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the spring. The Mathematics component of the program focuses on Calculus I and II, with applications to the sciences, in the fall and spring semesters, respectively. Upon completion of the program, students will receive credit for Bio 192, Chem 192, Math 211 and Math 212.
This program will help you discover the many ways that a degree in science or math will set you on the path to future discoveries and exciting careers. All students interested in science, math and related areas are welcome. The broad-based exposure to ideas and techniques from a variety of areas is excellent preparation for graduate and pre-professional work in any of the sciences.
In collaboration with the faculty, students will coordinate undergraduate research projects to be conducted during the summer following their first year at Richmond.
A follow-up research training seminar and Integrated Science Minor will be available to students who have completed the program. The seminar will feature speakers from the University's faculty and employees from external labs who will describe their work and the importance of multidisciplinary approaches that tackle important, cutting-edge research problems in areas such as drug design, stem cell research and nanoscience.
Apply to SMART
The application deadline is Wednesday, June 1, 2022. To complete the SMART application, you will need your Spider Portal login information. If you need assistance with accessing your portal, please contact the Office of Admission at (804) 289-8640.
