DECEMBER 2010
Biology
Biology is the science of life. We may study biology for its practical applications in fields that
include medicine, agriculture, and manufacturing, or simply because of what E.O. Wilson terms
"biophilia", our innate fascination with living things. B.A. and B.S. programs build upon
fundamental concepts to give an understanding of major areas of modern biology, including
molecular biology, neurobiology, and structural biology. Courses for non-majors introduce
aspects of the biology of our everyday lives. They provide background for students to make
choices in areas such as diet and immunization, and to be informed participants in broader debate
of issues such as stem cell research and human impact on the environment.
Knowledge
Living things work in ways that reflect principles of mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
Biology majors will demonstrate an appropriate understanding of these subjects. All biology
majors will demonstrate basic knowledge of cell biology. This includes knowledge of the
molecular building blocks of cells, structure-function relationships of molecules and cells, and
the flow of energy, materials, and information within and between cells. All biology majors will
demonstrate basic knowledge of molecular biology and genetics. This includes knowledge of the
flow of genetic information from genes to proteins, and from generation to generation of cells
and organisms. All biology majors will demonstrate knowledge of techniques and equipment
commonly used in modern biology and genetics laboratories. These include the use of
recombinant DNA techniques and the genetic manipulation of model organisms. Additionally,
students will demonstrate knowledge of subjects chosen, depending upon their interests and
career goals, from a broad range of elective courses.
Skills
Students who major in biology will develop skills in three core areas. Firstly, they will develop
skills in collecting and analyzing quantitative data, including the creation of visual
representations of data, and statistical analysis. Secondly, students will develop critical thinking
skills by interpreting biological data and scientific reports. Thirdly, they will develop skills in
written and oral communication of scientific observations, ideas, data, and opinions.
Upon graduation
The flexible bachelor's degree program educates biology graduates for a variety of careers, which
may depend upon the elective courses taken. Some will enter the workforce in technical
positions in biological research in academic, medical or industrial laboratories. Others will go on
to graduate study in dentistry, medicine, veterinary medicine, and allied health professions such
as genetic counseling, physical therapy, physician assistant, or public health. Some students will
enter master's or doctoral programs in the life sciences. Still others will bring their scientific
backgrounds to other professions, including business, secondary and post-secondary education,
and law.