CMC professor teaching in front of a periodic table display.
CMC student in a snow vehicle maintenance class
A CMC Student using a microscope in a Biological Sciences classroom setting.
CMC Skilled Trades concurrent enrollment student welding.
School of Natural & Applied Sciences at Colorado Mountain College
CMC’s School of Natural & Applied Sciences serves around 700 students annually with two bachelor’s degrees, ten associate degrees and nineteen certificates across four academic departments and one program. Since nearly all students will take courses offered by the School of Natural & Applied Science, our goal is for CMC students to develop career and communication skills by augmenting their critical thinking, applied skills, independent thought, and scientific inquiry.
Studying the Natural & Applied Sciences at CMC
The school offers a variety of programs and courses.
Do you excel at solving problems, care deeply about the environment, or have a passion for understanding life itself? Our Math and Science Pathway prepares you for transfer into mathematics or engineering programs, careers in sustainable ecosystem management, or future professional and graduate studies.
Do you enjoy working with your hands, operating equipment, or building the world around you? Our Skilled Trades and Ski Area Operations Pathway provides hands-on training for high-demand careers with ski industry leaders like Vail Resorts and Alterra, and teaches skills in welding, plasma cutting, automotive technology, and more.
Do you stay calm under pressure and feel called to serve your community in times of need? Our Public Safety Pathway prepares you to become an EMT, police officer, or firefighter – professionals who make a difference when it matters most.
Select an academic pathway below to learn more
News from the School of Natural & Applied Sciences
Jim Jones Leads CMC’s Effort to Grow Colorado’s Trades Workforce
A new statewide report outlines a pressing challenge: Colorado needs far more skilled-trade workers to meet its energy and infrastructure goals, especially in rural and mountain regions. As buildings undergo efficiency upgrades, renewable systems expand, and older trades professionals retire, communities face widening workforce gaps. Jim Jones, Program Director of Skilled Crafts & Trades at Colorado Mountain College, has been working on the front lines of this issue. He told CPR News that employers across… Read more: Jim Jones Leads CMC’s Effort to Grow Colorado’s Trades Workforce
CMC is Building a Climate-Ready Trades Workforce in Rural Colorado
A recent report from KUNC highlights an innovative partnership between Colorado Mountain College and skilled-trade employers aimed at developing a climate-focused workforce in rural mountain communities. Read more: CMC is Building a Climate-Ready Trades Workforce in Rural Colorado
Highlighting Audrey Walker’s Work in Colorado’s Sacred Hot Springs
Rocky Mountain PBS’s Colorado Experience: Sacred Hot Springs explores the history, geology, and cultural significance of Colorado’s mineral springs — and prominently features the expertise of Audrey Walker, Adjunct Faculty of Physical Sciences at Colorado Mountain College’s Steamboat Springs campus, where she teaches courses in geology. Read more: Highlighting Audrey Walker’s Work in Colorado’s Sacred Hot Springs
Steamboat Radio: A climate monitoring station has been installed at CMC Steamboat
A climate monitoring station has been installed at CMC Steamboat Read more: Steamboat Radio: A climate monitoring station has been installed at CMC Steamboat
Colorado Mountain College and CU Boulder launch guaranteed admission agreement for engineering students
Colorado Mountain College students are now eligible for guaranteed admission to the University of Colorado Boulder’s College of Engineering and Applied Science if they complete four specific courses at Colorado Mountain College, thanks to a new partnership between the two institutions. Read more: Colorado Mountain College and CU Boulder launch guaranteed admission agreement for engineering students
MEET THE DEAN
The Dean of Natural & Applied Sciences welcomes students to CMC.
ACCREDITATION
All academic programs in the School of Natural & Applied Sciences are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Mission Statement
The School of Natural & Applied Sciences inspires curiosity, discovery, and innovation through hands-on learning in the sciences, mathematics, public safety, and skilled trades. We provide flexible academic pathways that prepare students for careers, transfer opportunities, and lifelong learning. Rooted in inclusive and equity-minded teaching, we meet students where they are, foster a sense of belonging, and empower them to achieve their goals while contributing to their communities and a sustainable future.