Biology (BS)

Program Requirements

General Biology Core — 10 Credits

This degree has core requirements and then allows students to focus on the areas that they wish. However, the degree does not have official "emphases." It is up to the student, in discussion with their advisor and professors, to choose the courses that will best serve them as they prepare for a career or for graduate school.

General Chemistry Core — 8 Credits

Biology Foundation Core

Biology Electives

(not previously taken above)

— 20 Credits

Courses in Marine Biology

Courses in Environmental Conservation

Courses in Molecular and Cell Biology

Courses in Organismal Biology

Courses in Chemistry

Courses in Physics

Research

Up to 3 credits can be counted toward the biology degree

Other Courses

Notes:

• 50 credit major
• No class can be repeated more than once.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completing a major in biology, students will:

1. Possess knowledge of the fundamental physical, chemical, and biological principles and laws governing nature and life itself.
2. Perform essential laboratory techniques, and employ scientific principles and laboratory skills to solve scientific problems.
3. Convey scientific ideas and knowledge clearly and professionally, in both written and oral forms.
4. Analyze and evaluate relevant scientific literature.

The Discipline

The biology major provides a rigorous research-based education for students, with a basic foundation in the life sciences. Special emphasis is placed on providing opportunities for students to participate in meaningful research in areas such as anatomy, genetics, physiology, molecular biology, evolution, natural history, and marine biology. This major seeks to prepare students for professional careers in teaching, government service, industry, research, and the medical professions.

Career Opportunities

With further education, career opportunities for biomedical science graduates include medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, chiropractic, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, physician assistant, and other allied health professions. General biology majors can utilize their degree to obtain careers in areas such as wildlife management, forestry conservation, environmental quality consulting, technical work, and park services. Students interested in aquaria, ocean conservation, marine research, and fisheries can use marine biology to prepare them for entrance into these fields. The study of molecular biology major has particular value for students preparing for jobs in genetics, consulting, research, forensics, and bioinformatics. The biology education program, a cooperative program with the Teacher Education Program, is designed to prepare teachers to teach biology in junior high or high school.

All biology major emphases provide opportunities for a variety of post-baccalaureate studies.