An investigative approach with a heavy emphasis on laboratory work drives the Science Department at Saint Viator. Its 11 faculty members strive to enable students to interpret real world issues as well as apply scientific problem solving to impact a global community.

Students are immersed in state-of-the-art facilities. Eight new labs with interactive SMART boards in every room, as well as classroom computers and some wireless laptops heighten interest.

Students are able to intergrate their scientific investigation with their computers, using sophisticated Vernier sensors and Pasco connectors. They are able to take such readings as pH, temperature, velocity, acceleration, and dissolved oxygen, before using their data for graphing and interpretation.

In all, students are required to take three years of science --- traditionally biology, chemistry, and physics --- however most students take four. Courses are designed to meet students at their own level, from introductory biology freshman year, which helps students firm up reading and math skills, up to honors level biology for the accelerated student.

Different levels of science classes continue with sophomores able to choose between an integrated science lab that provides a background in the fundamentals of physical science, an Earth Science Lab, or Chemistry Lab, both the traditional or honors track. Juniors may pursue physics or honors physics. Students also have a wide variety of electives to study, including Environmental Science Lab, Anatomy/Physiology, and Astronomy.

College level science courses include AP Chemistry, AP Biology and AP Physics, and Saint Viator students traditionally score high on the AP exam in these subjects.

While Saint Viator remains committed to providing its students with up-to-date laboratories and technology, a variety of learning experiences take place outside the classroom. Students in Environmental Science Lab take part in field studies at the Volo Bog and the Chicago River. Physics students gather data to solve a variety of kinematics problems at Great America.

AP Biology students and those taking Anatomy also visit Loyola Medical School for a hands-on experience in their lab, including cadavers.

An active Science Club also brings students together with an interest in the subject, to design projects and take part in service-learning opportunities.

In summary:

• Science classes are driven by an inquiry approach with an emphasis on lab work.
• Students work in state-of-the-art facilities, including all new labs with interactive SMART boards.
• All science rooms are equipped with computers, enabling students to interface their scientific investigation on their computers for interpretation.
• After the traditional Biology, Chemistry, Chemisty II and Physics, students may continue with Anatomy/Physiology, Astronomy, Environmental Science Lab.
• AP courses are offered in Chemistry, Biology and Physics.