B.A. in Biology
Overview
The B.A. degree program is designed for majors who are seeking employment in the field immediately after college or as a second major for education majors who aim to become primary or secondary school biology teachers.
Students must complete Principles of Biology for Science Majors I and II (BIO 107 and BIO 109L, BIO 108 and BIO 110L) with a grade of C or better before declaring a major in biology.
Summary of Requirements
| |
2024-2025 |
| Core Curriculum |
43 |
| Pre-Major Courses |
8 |
| Major and Related Courses |
51 |
| Free Elective Courses |
18 |
| TOTAL: |
120 |
A biology major must complete at least one internship in the field.
Required pre-major courses 8 credits
| BIO 107 | Principles of Biology for Science Majors I | 3 |
| BIO 108 | Principles of Biology for Science Majors II | 3 |
| BIO 109L | Principles of Biology for Science Majors I - Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 110L | Principles of Biology for Science Majors II - Laboratory | 1 |
Required biology courses 11 credits
Required chemistry courses 16 credits
| 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 mathematics course 6 credits
MAT 130: Three hours count toward the general education math requirement.
Elective biology courses 18 credits
You may choose to build your own tracks from the following electives:
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.