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Biology (BS)

Biology (BS)
Requirements
Sample 4-Year Degree Plan General Concentration
Sample 4-Year Degree Plan Human Health Science Concentration

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE MAJOR IN BIOLOGY

Major Credits Required: 66-81 Credits

Biology, the study of life, is currently in its most exciting era. Unique insights of new scientific pioneers fueled by modern research techniques are sparking an explosion of biological information. From these fragments emerge a picture of life revealing fascinating connections between molecules, cells, organisms, ecological systems, and evolution. Biologists explore these fundamental components and their connections to build a unified understanding of life.

The College of Natural and Computational Sciences offers three pathways, or concentrations, for a major program of study leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. The first program of study is Conservation, Ecology and Evolution which gives a strong background in natural systems, quantitative methods and evolutionary and ecological principles to prepare students for careers or graduate work in wildlife biology, conservation, ecosystem restoration and management.  The General Biology concentration provides a broad, yet integrated background across the breadth of fields within the biological sciences. The General Biology curriculum is scientifically rigorous but flexible, offering students choices and opportunities for pursuing their own areas of interest, and providing the preparation for a variety of biological careers or further studies, including molecular biology, physiology, veterinary science, microbiology, zoology, and botany. The third concentration is the Human and Health Sciences program of study. This curriculum focuses on molecular and human biology, with options to study advanced aspects of human health and social sciences, from microbiology to psychology, anthropology and health management. The Human and Health sciences option prepares students for entry into medical school, dental school, pharmacy and health care training programs, and graduate studies in health-related fields. In addition, it provides the scientific background for careers in biotechnology, cell and molecular biology, and biomedicine.  In all curriculum options, the Biology degree program at HPU integrates modern laboratory methods and field experiences with traditional classroom instruction, providing excellent preparation for employment or graduate studies for future researchers, science educators, health professionals, managers, and for many other pursuits.

To complete the bachelor's degree, students must complete a minimum total of 120 credits with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0.

 PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

Students who major in Biology will:

  1. Apply the fundamental knowledge, principles, processes and systems in the natural sciences to solve biological problems.

  2. Integrate advanced concepts across the breadth of biology subject areas, including cellular, molecular, and organismal biology, ecology, evolution, and the diversity of life.

  3. Conduct observational and experimental studies in biology, with appropriate experimental design and application of mathematical, statistical, and computational techniques.

  4. Find, read, and evaluate published biological research from a variety of sources.

  5. Communicate scientific ideas effectively in written and oral formats with effective presentation techniques.

  6. Demonstrate an understanding of biomedical ethics.