Many of the critical problems the world faces, especially those which challenge values and beliefs, can often best be understood with a knowledge of biological principles. Accordingly, the department of Biology strives to give our students an appreciation of the methods, potentials, achievements and limitations of the biological sciences, and to instill in them the intellectual and ethical skills to use this information effectively. To accomplish this, the department provides a combination of required and elective courses in biology consistent with a liberal education, and it maintains a tradition of strong support for independent study and undergraduate research. The faculty members of the department of Biology recognize their responsibility to teach the values that are important to the process of free inquiry — the foundation of our discipline. The department encourages the utilization of research strategies to address scientific questions, the abilities of students to communicate scientific principles and the critical thinking skills of students. Faculty has knowledge of the degree that should prepare students for advanced studies and professional careers. Mission Statement [+] Program Objectives [+] Program Outcomes [+]

Students who study biology are prepared to enter a variety of different career fields. Many students go on to graduate studies, including medical school, veterinary school and physical therapy programs. Some careers of interest for biology majors include: Animal behavior (ethology) Anthropology Bioinformatics Biotechnology Botany Developmental biology Endocrinology Food science Forensic science Immunology Healthcare Marine biology Microbiology Medicine Medical writing Neuroscience Oceanography Ornithology Paleontology Parasitology Pharmaceutical sales Physiology Physical therapy Public health Veterinary medicine Zoology