B.S. in Biology

Program Chair: Edward Moczydlowski

Biology is the study of life in all of its unique forms and complexity. Modern biology spans numerous research areas that explore the diversity of life at multiple levels of organization:  molecules, cells, organ systems, species, ecosystems, and biosphere. The foundation of the Biology Program is a core curriculum of interactive classroom and laboratory experiences covering fundamental knowledge in biodiversity, cellular and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, anatomy, physiology, and ecology. Biology majors typically pursue career paths in biotechnology, ecology and environmental science, or health-related professions.

The course curriculum for the Biology Major is designed to realize the following learning outcomes:

• Achieve proficiency in biology by mastering the core knowledge of the discipline and specializing in one or more subfields of the life sciences.
• Acquire scientific skills through inquiry-based laboratories and practical learning experiences that include the opportunity for directed study and thesis research guided by a professor.
• Develop the ability to think critically and solve problems though exposure to quantitative laboratory- and field-based research, primary research literature, and the history of biological science.
• Learn how to use appropriate technology, methodology and informational tools that accelerate progress in the workplace such as computer software, bioinformatics, genetic engineering, cell culture, microscopy, etc.
• Master oral and written communication skills essential for work in all fields of biology and the health professions.
• Develop social skills of interpersonal interaction including an awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity that enhances progress and enriches the pursuit of scientific endeavors.
• Gain strong appreciation of the importance of professional ethical behavior in society and the workplace.
• Obtain insight to current issues of bioethical concern ranging from preservation of global biodiversity to the improvement of human health through modern advances in biotechnology.
• Learn about career opportunities in the life sciences in preparation for seeking professional employment after graduation.

Upper-level Biology majors choose from a variety of elective courses that build upon fundamental principles and allow students to explore areas of personal interest. We encourage students to complement a program of bioscience courses drawn from research and teaching strengths of the department with relevant courses in other basic sciences, mathematics, engineering, business, and humanities. Students may also take advantage of courses offered through the Associated Colleges Program to broaden their educational experience. The large array of choices in biological sciences can be used to tailor a customized career plan leading to graduate school or a professional degree program. Students interested in a more specialized background may consider interdisciplinary studies in chemistry, biomolecular engineering, mathematics, physics, psychology, environmental engineering, environmental science and policy, and environmental and occupational health.

Specific course requirements of the Biology Major are listed below, along with a suggested schedule. Students are guided throughout the year with personal advising and mentoring by Biology faculty members. Undergraduate participation in basic or applied research is highly encouraged and available through work in faculty laboratories, the senior thesis, summer research programs, and internships.

Biology Sample Curriculum
FIRST YEAR
First Semester				Second Semester
Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.		Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.
BY140	Biology I	3		BY160	Biology II	3
BY142	Biology I Lab	2		BY162	Biology II Lab	2
CM103	Structure & Bonding	3		CM104	Equilibrium & Dynamics	3
CM105	Chemistry Lab I	2		CM106	Chemistry Lab II	2
MA131	Calculus I (or MA180			MA132	Calculus II (or MA181
	Intro. College Math.)	3			Basic Calculus)	3
UNIV190	Clarkson Seminar	3			KA Elective	3
FY100	First-Year Seminar	1
						16
		17
SOPHOMORE YEAR
First Semester				Second Semester
Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.		Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.
BY350	Comparative Anatomy			BY214	Genetics	3
	(or BY222 Ecology)	3		CM242	Organic Chemistry II	3
BY352	Comparative Anatomy Lab			CM244	Organic Chemistry Lab II	3
	(or BY224 Ecology Lab)	2		STAT318	Biostatistics	4
CM241	Organic Chemistry I	3		PH132	Physics II (or PH142
PH131	Physics I (or PH141				Physics for Life Science II)	4
	Physics for Life Science I)	4
	KA/UC Elective	3				17
		15
JUNIOR YEAR
First Semester				Second Semester
Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.		Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.
	Biology Electives	6		BY320	Microbiology	3
	KA/UC Elective	3		BY322	Microbiology Lab	2
	Free Electives	6			Biology Elective	3
BY422	Undergrad Bio. Seminar	1			Technology Elective	3
					Free Elective	3
		16
						14
SENIOR YEAR
First Semester				Second Semester
Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.		Course	Title	Cr. Hrs.
	Biology Elective	3			Biology Electives	6
	KA/UC Elective	3			KA/UC Elective	3
	Free Electives	6			Free Electives	6
	Prof. Exp. in Biology	1
						15
		13