Natural science programs teach people biology, chemistry, earth sciences, physics, and math. Students may specialize in one or more of the physical or biological sciences. They learn science from a broad perspective.

Have you ever gone to an "all you can eat" buffet? You get to put a little bit of everything on your plate. It's a good way to try new things. A program in natural sciences is much the same experience. The program includes a wide variety of sciences including biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, and mathematics. For "second helpings," you usually get to choose one science as a concentration.

This broad-based program is a good foundation for a multitude of career possibilities. It is useful for students who plan to go on to graduate school or veterinary school, or to study medicine or dentistry. It is also prepares you for elementary or secondary teacher certification in science. In addition, some students take this undergraduate program before going into law, politics, or environmental science.

Several community colleges offer an associate degree in natural sciences, which takes two years beyond high school to complete. These programs are a good introduction to all the sciences, and may prepare you for an entry-level position such as lab technician.

Many colleges offer a bachelor's degree, which usually takes four years beyond high school to complete. You may become certified to teach science if you also complete the required courses in education.

Only a few universities offer a master's degree in natural sciences, and these are typically designed for elementary, middle school, and general science teachers. A master's degree program usually takes six years beyond high school to complete.

Students can choose a concentration in biology, chemistry, earth science, or physics.