Biology, Bachelor of Science

The curriculum in biology provides thorough and intensive coursework in both theoretical and applied aspects of biological science. Active participation by the students in laboratory and field courses is required and direct experience with living organisms and scientific instrumentation is a central focus of the program. The science of biology is taught within the larger context of a liberal arts education and every effort is made to encourage interdisciplinary connections with the social sciences and the humanities. Courses strongly emphasize writing and speaking skills and avoid reducing science to the accumulation of factual knowledge. Majors are encouraged to pursue summer internships in field and laboratory settings.

An undergraduate degree in biology offers a variety of career options, including technical positions in business and medicine. Many graduates earn advanced degrees in medical and veterinary schools or complete graduate research in fields such as biochemistry and ecology. Students with expertise in genetics, physiology and environmental science are increasingly in demand in business and government. Undergraduate work in the sciences provides the student with skills in research and the clarity of thought and communication skills essential for success in the contemporary world.

Note: A secondary education certification in biology is available – see the education curriculum.

Degree Requirements

Required Courses

BIO 101	General Biology I	4
BIO 102	General Biology II	4
CHM 101	General Chemistry I	4
	AND
CHM 102	General Chemistry II	4
	OR
CHM 103	Fundamentals of General Chemistry	4
CHM 201	Organic Chemistry I	4
	AND
CHM 202	Organic Chemistry II	4
	OR
CHM 104	Fund. of Organic Chem. in Biological Sys	4
MAT 130	Calc & Analytic Geometry I	4
	AND
MAT 115	Introductory Statistics	3
	OR
MAT 140	Calculus & Analytic Geometry II	4
BIO 398	Design & Methods of Scientific Research	2
BIO 400	Senior Research Seminar I	3
BIO 402	Senior Research Seminar II	2
	OR
EDU 433	Secondary Science Practicum	12
	AND

Six courses equaling a minimum of 18 semester hours at the 200 or 300 level, at least two courses of which are at the 300 level.