David Benzing, the Robert S. Danforth Professor of Biology, said that science itself has changed. We have seen a major revolution in how science is done and how prominent it is in society, increasingly so, as we grapple with broader, deeper problems. The outcome for Oberlin is revealed in its course catalogue, which outlines more classes in neuroscience, computer science, and biochemistry. Student Ambitions New generations of college students bring to campus new generations of interests-another catalyst for curriculum change. We just authorized a new faculty position in environmental studies to deal with the explosive growth of interest in the subject.
Jewish history is another.
Student demand affected the languages, leading to courses in Chinese and Japanese and an expansion of Spanish offerings. Interest in other languages is declining. Also considered are students' future career plans. Particularly in the sciences, acceptance to the top graduate or medical schools is based in part on the strength of an undergraduate experience. Depending upon the year, anywhere from 5 to 10 percent of students from each graduating class apply to medical school.