Biology

The Biology Department offers a selection of courses that exposes students to the diversity and complexity of life at the molecular, cellular, organismal, population and community levels. Through our program, students learn the principles of a variety of subdisciplines in biology and acquire scientific problem solving skills through lectures, laboratory exercises and research. The program is aimed at preparing students for a broad range of biology-oriented careers, such as those in medicine, research, biotechnology, and teaching. The Bachelor of Science degree is designed for students preparing for a career in biology, or for continued training in the health sciences or graduate school. The Bachelor of Arts degree, in coordination with the Teacher Certification Program in the School of Education, prepares students to teach biology at the secondary level. Students interested in biochemistry should consider a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and a minor in chemistry, which can provide the equivalent of the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-recommended biochemistry degree. A minor in biology is also offered by the department.

The biology department has developed a two-year "core" biology sequence. In the first semester (BIOL 101) we focus on the diversity of living organisms followed by a semester of ecology (BIOL 102). At the same time these students take general and organic chemistry. In their second year, students take cell biology (BIOL 201) followed by genetics and evolution in BIOL 202. We have developed a corresponding laboratory sequence that allows and encourages students to function independently. Labs associated with BIOL 101 introduce the scientific process and encourage the beginnings of experimental design. The mechanics of researching primary scientific literature are also introduced. This emphasis on independent laboratory activity with students working in small groups of 3-4 continues throughout the biology core sequence. In Ecology, students are doing field studies and collecting data on whether a portion of a local state park should receive "Old Growth" status.

The Biology Department curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong yet broad background in biology. During the first two years, students receive a solid foundation in diverse areas of biology including organismal biology, cellular and molecular biology, ecology, genetics, evolution, and physiology. At the same time students learn the fundamental principles of chemistry that are essential for understanding the structure and function of biological molecules and how these molecules interact in living systems. Once the core series is completed, students can choose electives from a variety of other departmental courses. In addition, students are required to complete an Advanced Topics course. In this course students read, analyze, and discuss primary research literature on selected biological topics. Laboratory work is an important component of the biology curriculum and complements the classroom learning. Beginning with the introductory courses, laboratories provide students with the opportunity to apply the scientific method of inquiry to experimental models while learning techniques and critical thinking skills that are vital to a successful career in science. Moreover, the Biology Department encourages students to participate in faculty research programs in genetics, cell biology, vertebrate biology, evolutionary biology, invertebrate physiology, plant physiology, ecology, animal behavior, and biochemistry. Interested students should contact specific faculty members concerning the availability of research opportunities during the school year and in the summer.