Biology is the study of life through understanding the organization and functions of cells and genes, the diversity of living organisms, and the processes and relationships of living organisms with other organisms and their environment. The Biology major provides students with a foundation for understanding these living organisms within a Christian perspective. Each student will encounter a comprehensive coverage of biological concepts while also having the opportunity to explore specific areas in this diverse subject in greater detail. Students who complete a Biology major may be granted a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree, depending on the courses taken, as listed in the major requirements.
Scientific inquiry is incorporated throughout the biology curriculum, from the introductory biology courses with laboratories, through a research methods course, and through additional upper division coursework, many of which include project-based laboratory experiences. In addition, faculty in the Biological and Health Sciences are each involved in scientific research that also includes participation by students, and these experiences occur during the academic year and during the summer. Active participation in these experiences develops the student's understanding of the processes of science, encourages critical thinking skills, and improves one's ability to better evaluate published scientific reports. Students who are interested in participating in research should contact individual faculty members.
Biology graduates will be prepared for participation a wide range of professional, academic, and other types of vocations, such as teaching in secondary education, continued postgraduate education leading to higher degrees for work in academia, industry or health care professions. Our graduates have pursued these careers as well as many others.
The Bachelor of Arts with a major in Biology requires a total of 50 credits including:
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Required Department Core | 14 | |
Organization of Life: Genetics and Cell Biology | ||
Introduction to Biological and Health Science Research | ||
The Integrated Biological and Health Scientist | ||
or BMB 494 | Biochemistry Molecular Biology Capstone | |
or NEUR 494 | Neuroscience Capstone | |
General Chemistry I | ||
Required Major Core | 16 | |
Genetics | ||
Cluster 1: Cellular & Molecular - Choose one course from the following: | ||
Introduction to Pharmacology | ||
Microbiology | ||
Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis | ||
Advanced Cellular and Molecular Biology | ||
Developmental Biology | ||
General Biochemistry | ||
Cluster 2: Organismal & Physiology - Choose one course from the following: | ||
Human Anatomy and Physiology I | ||
Human Anatomy & Physiology II | ||
Parasitology | ||
Invertebrate Zoology | ||
Neurobiology of Health | ||
Economic Botany | ||
Plant Physiology | ||
Cluster 3: Ecology, Environment & Evolution - Choose one course from the following: | ||
Environmental Ethics | ||
Introduction to Bioinformatics | ||
Plant Taxonomy | ||
Conservation Biology | ||
Disease Ecology | ||
Ecosystem Health | ||
Evolutionary Biology | ||
Marine Biology | ||
Animal Behavior | ||
Ecology and Evolution | ||
Field Natural History | ||
Electives | 20 | |
Students may take any 300 or 400 level BHS, BIOL, BMB, HS, or NEUR course as elective credit (excluding any courses taken to fulfill their Major Core), and a max of 4 credits are allowed from courses ranging 495-499. | ||
Total Credits | 50 |