DEPARTMENT of BIOLOGY

Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Biology is to offer a challenging and comprehensive curriculum that provides all students with the opportunity to learn both the core content of the biological sciences and the processes of scientific inquiry. For biology majors, the department prepares students for careers in scientific and related fields, as well as for admission to professional and graduate schools.

Program Goals & Student Learning Outcomes

To fulfill this mission, the department ensures that students in the biology program:

  • Demonstrate factual and conceptual understanding of the fundamental principles of biology and acquire detailed knowledge of the discipline.
  • Recognize and discuss the interconnected nature of the world, relating biological concepts to current societal and environmental issues.
  • Understand and apply ethical practices within the field of biology.
  • Complete an independent research project involving critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific analysis.
  • Communicate scientific findings effectively, both orally and in writing.

Academic Flexibility

The biology major emphasizes a student’s capacity to understand and conduct research. The program allows individuals to tailor their academic experience to match their interests, which may include:

  • Botany
  • Zoology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Environmental and Conservation Biology
  • Teacher Certification
  • Other specialized areas