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Biology

The Biology program seeks to provide students with a broad foundation in the fundamentals of the biological sciences and affords the opportunity for all students to grow in scientific literacy and apply methods of scientific reasoning to aspects of modern life.

The course offerings of the department are designed to contribute to the general education of all students; give the necessary background to those who plan to do graduate work in the life sciences or who plan to do basic or applied research in the field; and prepare students who will enter professional fields, such as medicine, medical laboratory science, allied health, and secondary or elementary education.

Program Outcomes

Throughout their program the students demonstrate the accomplishment of the following outcomes:

  1. Recall and apply basic terminology, facts, concepts, theories, and principles included in a broad overview of the field of biological sciences.
  2. Demonstrate skill and competence in using laboratory equipment and standard protocols.
  3. Write laboratory reports based on standard formats found in professional journals in the biological sciences.
  4. Develop habits of analytical thinking with a scientific approach to problem solving.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to present, interpret, and discuss laboratory findings in a manner appropriate to a professional scientist.
  6. Explain biological phenomena in ways that show understanding of evolutionary and ecological interrelationships.
  7. Apply knowledge of mathematics, chemistry, and physics in explaining biological phenomena and problem solving.

Biology courses older than 10 years will generally not be accepted in transfer toward a Biology major or minor.

Teacher Licensure

Students who plan to become biology teachers should consult the Teacher Education advisor for biology early in the program. Teacher licensure requires specific major and/or supporting courses not required for all biology majors. Those requirements are:

One of the following sequences:

BI 258 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (5 crs)

BI 259 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (5 crs)

OR

BI 256 Human Anatomy (4 crs)

BI 358 Human Physiology (5 crs)

BI 265 Basic Microbiology (4 crs)

BICH 588 Practical Applications in Teaching Science (1-3 crs)

Additionally, PY 320 Human Sexuality is strongly recommended.

Traditional four-year students generally apply to the teacher education program during their sophomore year. Transfer students may apply after one semester at the University of Saint Mary but should contact the education department soon after transfer for guidance on appropriate coursework. See the Education program section for further information.

30 credit hours in Biology (“BI” prefixed classes only, excluding BI 109 and BI 110) of which 10 credits of course work must be completed at the University of Saint Mary which must include BI 595, BI 596, and BICH 597.