B.S. in Biology
Overview
The Bachelor of Science degree in biology is designed for students who want a more intensive background in the sciences. It is especially tailored for students who aspire for graduate studies in biology or a related field, or who wish to enter medical, dental, or veterinary school. The Bachelor of Science degree in biology differs from the Bachelor of Arts degree in biology in that it requires additional courses in physics, mathematics, research methods in biology, and a senior capstone.
Students must complete Principles of Biology for Science Majors I and II (BIO 107, 108) with a grade of C or better before declaring a major in biology.
Summary of Requirements
|
2022-2023 |
| Core Curriculum |
43 |
| Pre-Major Courses |
8 |
| Major and Related Courses |
63 |
| Free Elective Courses |
6 |
| TOTAL: |
120 |
A biology major must complete at least one internship in the field.
Required pre-major courses 8 hours
| BIO 107 | Principles of Biology for Science Majors I | 4 |
| BIO 108 | Principles of Biology for Science Majors II | 4 |
Required biology courses 7 hours
BIO 201: Four hours count toward the general studies requirement, replacing GSR 230
Required chemistry courses 16 hours
| CHE 107 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHE 108 | General Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHE 109 | General Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 |
| CHE 110 | General Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 |
| CHE 211 | Organic Chemistry Lecture I | 3 |
| CHE 212 | Organic Chemistry Lecture II | 3 |
| CHE 213 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 |
| CHE 214 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 |
Required physics courses 8 hours
Required mathematics course 8 hours
MAT 130: Three hours count toward the general studies requirement, replacing GSR 104
Elective biology courses 24 hours
Take at least one course from each of these four areas, for a total of 24 credits.
Ecology
Genetics
Microbiology, Molecular and Cell Biology
Organismal Biology
Other Electives
These courses count as biology electives but do not count toward the requirement for any one area.
Program Outcomes
1. Demonstrate knowledge of current theories of biology and concepts basic to biology, including: Levels of complexity (molecular/cellular through population/communities/ecosystems); biological principles and processes; connections among concepts across disciplines (physical sciences, mathematics, social sciences).
2. Demonstrate critical thinking skills through: Identifying appropriate questions, issues or problems to be explored; analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating evidence; constructing well-supported, clearly articulated arguments and conclusions.
3. Demonstrate information literacy and research skills through effective use of: Sources of information in biology including published literature and scientific databases; computer applications to acquire and analyze experimental data and develop graphic models.
4. Demonstrate experimental research methods including: Scientific methods and instrumentation; safe and appropriate use of laboratory equipment; experimental design; data analysis; familiarity with professional standards in science.
5. Demonstrate effective communication with varied audiences and media by: Providing clear structure and transitions; demonstrating substantial understanding via research, credible sources, and supporting evidence; demonstrating audience-appropriate purpose, agenda, language, and style.
6. Demonstrate preparation for future career and educational goals by: awareness of personal competencies (strengths and weaknesses); ability to work in a team to accomplish a goal; understanding of professional and ethical behavior.