Breaking into the fields of science and mathematics continues to be a challenge for women today. The Women in Science and Mathematics Program (WISMP) at Salem College was developed to address that very issue through the offering of comprehensive support resources and rich academic opportunities that distinguish our students and graduates as they enter the professional world.

The Women in Science and Mathematics Program is an initiative designed to bolster the efforts of motivated, intelligent women not just to enter mathematical and scientific fields, but to impact them. The program includes seminars, guest lecturers, trips to professional conferences, research internships, and independent lab work.

Rather than being an academic major, this umbrella program encompasses many majors that offer students life-changing preparation. Graduates commonly are accepted into some of the finest medical schools and graduate programs in the nation. Recent graduates have entered such fields as medicine, physical therapy, chemistry, pharmacology, public health, and nursing, among others.

“The Women in Science and Mathematics (WISM) Program effectively prepares our students for careers in science and mathematics or related fields, including graduate and professional schools. Through internships and research, students use creativity, improve communication skills and learn new scientific techniques. WISM-sponsored seminars and conferences introduce our students to new discoveries and foster networking. Our mission is to mentor our students in all four disciplines to achieve excellence. Watching the transformation of our students is most rewarding!” 

Professor Rebecca Dunn, PhD, Director of the Women in Science and Mathematics Program