Biology is concerned with living matter in all its forms, responses, and interactions. It deals with studying anything that is or has been alive: microbes, fungi, plants, "protists," and all animals, including humans. The science of biology includes a large number of highly integrated sub-disciplines, such as microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, physiology, systematics, and behavior. Biologists must draw upon various academic disciplines to make observations and form conclusions. Well-trained biologists have solid backgrounds in chemistry, mathematics, computer science, statistics, physics, and the humanities, as required by graduate programs and professional schools, to meet the demands of professions in the life sciences.
The Department of Biological Sciences offers a B.S. or B.A. in biology. Students who wish to become professional biologists or to go into health careers, higher education, or graduate schools usually obtain a B.S. Those planning on using their biology degree in lower education or as a vocation may be interested in the B.A.
Biotechnologist • Health Professional such as Medical Doctor, Dentist, Opthamologist, Veterinarian, and Pharmacist • Environmental Scientist • Biology Researcher • Environmental Toxicologist • Forensic Scientist • Clinical Lab Scientist • Biology Teacher/Science Educator • Marine Biologist • Physical Therapist • Food Scientist • Radiation Therapy Technologist • Dietician • Science Editor • Medical Illustrator • Horticulturalist • Emergency Medical Technician • Mortician • Medical Technologist • Drug Inspector
Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics to learn more about the outlook for your future career.
Department of Biological Sciences
University CatalogAn introduction to molecular and cellular biology with emphasis on the integration of structure and function in the living cell as a biological system. Students learn about the cellular aspects of inheritance and basic principles of evolution.
An integrated approach to essential concepts of human physiology and anatomy. Analysis of tissues, and of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems.
A comprehensive analysis of gene structure, function, and inheritance incorporating classical and molecular-based approaches. Emphasis on the experimental evidence that has led to our current understanding of the nature of the gene, drawing on examples from bacteria to humans.
Learn core principles and concepts in animal physiology with emphasis on the regulation and integration of vertebrate systems, from the molecular/cellular level to the whole organism.
An introduction to the general biology of parasites and the host immune responses to and methods of evasion by parasites. Ecology and evolutionary biology of parasitic infections and modern methods for their control as well as their impact on human civilizations.
A dive into innate and adaptive immune systems, emphasizing key experiments in immunology, TLR signaling, NK cells, antimicrobial peptides, genetics, structure and function of immune molecules, hypersensitivity reactions and regulation of immune responses.