Concentration - Biology
Biology is the study of life forms. A concentration designated as Biology is based on theoretical concepts rather than application of theory as in health sciences. This concentration requires a minimum of 39 credits.
Concentration Requirements:
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
| Introductory Biology | 8 credits (1 year) |
| Genetics* | 3 credits |
| One course from the following list: Biochemistry*, Physiology*, or Cell Biology* | 3 credits |
| Organic Chemistry | 3 credits |
| Biology electives beyond the introductory level, in any one or combination of the subject areas such as Botany, Embryology, Comparative Anatomy, Evolution, Ecology, or Microbiology | 15-21 credits |
| Capstone - BIO 499 Culminating course in concentration) | 3 credits |
| TOTAL | 39 minimum |
| Co-requisites: one semester of Calculus ro Statistics. If planning to go to graduate school - 1 year of Calculus. | 3-6 credits |
*Taken within the past ten (10) years.
Notes: Only grades of C of higher may be included in the concentration. A second option for completing the requirements of this concentration - The GRE Subject Test in Biology, evaluated at 24 credits (15 lower, 9 upper), and at least 12 additional credits that must include two upper level laboratory courses and the 3 credit capstone.
Recommended Courses:
A second semester of Organic Chemistry
Computer literacy, including spreadsheets
Student Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with a concentration in Biology will be able to:- apply knowledge of subject matter from across the full range of biology curricula,
including:
- core biological concepts; and
- skills necessary for lifelong professional learning in biological sciences;
- apply problem solving and critical thinking skills in the biological sciences, including:
- generating hypotheses, designing approaches to test the hypotheses, and interpreting the data from those tests to reach valid conclusions; and
- demonstrate ethical demeanor when conducting scientific experiments;
- apply appropriate quantitative skills for the study of biology;
- use information literacy skills to find, read, and critically evaluate original scientific literature in biological sciences;
- use appropriate communication skills to present scientific information; and demonstrate basic laboratory skills.