The term "science" commonly refers to a set of methods of investigation leading to knowledge of the natural world. These methods include systematic observation, the formation of hypotheses and theories, and the construction of experiments to test these theories and hypotheses.
Washington and Lee offers curriculum and majors from all three areas of scientific study: Formal Sciences, Life Sciences and Physical Science.
A "formal science" is an area of study that uses formal systems to generate knowledge such as in Mathematics and Computer Science. Formal sciences are important subjects because all of quantitative science depends on them.
Life Sciences are sciences concerned with the study of living organisms and their organization, life processes, and relationships to each other and their environment.
Physical Sciences are the areas of sciences concerned with the study of inanimate natural objects. It is the study of the physical properties of the world around you. Studies in the physical sciences advances knowledge of the forces and principles that give order to the natural world and are the foundation for engineering, technology, medicine, and all other sciences.
Within the Sciences at W&L, there are three interdisciplinary programs, two curriculum-based programs and one grant initiative. Environmental Studies and Neuroscience involve complementary, cross-departmental studies to provide the appropriate context and research experiences to develop disciplinary expertise in these fields of study. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute Initiative provides funds for facilities and courses which increase accessibility of science studies to a broader academic audience as well as retain more students in STEM areas.