Biology (BS)

Program Requirements

General Biology Core — 11 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 — 4 or 7 Credits

The CHEM 105/106/107L sequence is recommended for students wishing to go on to advanced degrees in marine science, biochemistry, or medical fields. The CHEM 101/101L sequence is recommended for students intending to go into environmental science fields. However, graduate programs vary. Students should get advice from their academic advisors and faculty members if they have questions about which sequence to take.

OR

Biology Electives

The combined credit total of the biology core, chemistry core, and electives should equal a minimum of 56 credits.

Courses in Marine Biology

Courses in Environmental Conservation

Courses in Molecular and Cell Biology

Courses in Organismal Biology

Courses in Chemistry and Physics

Research

Up to 3 credits can be counted toward the biology degree

Policy Courses

Up to 6 credits can be counted towards the biology degree

Notes:

• No class can be repeated more than once.
• No more than 9 credits of D grade.
• Students must complete 24 credits of upper-level (300 level or above) courses.
• At least 18 credits of electives must be designated as BIOL.

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.