Biology, Bachelor of Science (BS) - Concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology - Concentration in Bioinformatics

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology provides a comprehensive understanding of biology, focusing on cellular and molecular processes. Students gain specialized knowledge in cell structure, gene expression, and protein synthesis, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and other biology-related fields. The program also offers an optional Concentration in Bioinformatics, enhancing students' skills in programming, algorithms, and machine learning.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology and an optional Concentration in Bioinformatics provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of biology, with a focus on cellular and molecular processes. The program prepares students for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and other fields related to biology.

Objectives:

• Develop a strong foundation in the core concepts of biology, including ecology, evolution, genetics, and molecular biology.
• Gain specialized knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, including cell structure and function, gene expression, and protein synthesis.
• Acquire proficiency in laboratory techniques and research methods used in cellular and molecular biology.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for success in the field of biology.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Biology Core Requirements:
• Biology I: Foundations of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity with Lab
• Biology II: Foundations of Molecules, Genes and Cells with Lab
• Genetics with Lab
• Biostatistics and Experimental Design with Lab
• Required Upper-Level Biology:
• Cell Biology
• Evolution
• Molecular Biology
• Cellular and Molecular Analysis Laboratory
• Animal Physiology with Lab
• Biology Seminar
• Upper-Level Biology Electives:
• Students select 6 credits in BIOL or MARS courses from a list of Additional Upper-Level Biology Electives.
• Related Sciences – Chemistry:
• General Chemistry I
• General Chemistry II
• Organic Chemistry I
• Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
• Related Sciences – Chemistry Advanced Elective:
• Students can choose from Organic Chemistry II, Organic Chemistry Laboratory II, or Biochemistry I and Biochemistry Laboratory I.
• Related Sciences – Physics:
• Students select one of Elements of Physics II/ Lab or University Physics 2 with Lab.
• Independent Study/Internship Options:
• Students can choose from an Independent Study Option or a Non-Independent Study Option.

Concentration in Bioinformatics Requirements:

• Programming Principles
• Advanced Programming Principles
• Algorithms and Data Structures
• Topics in Computer Science: Machine Learning
• Calculus II

Structure:

The program consists of approximately 120 credit hours, including coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science. Students typically complete the program in four years of full-time study.

Course Schedule:

A recommended four-year plan of study is provided, outlining the sequence of courses students should take each semester.

Individual Modules with Descriptions:

Biology Core Requirements:

• Biology I: Foundations of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity with Lab: Introduces the fundamental principles of ecology, evolution, and diversity of life.
• Biology II: Foundations of Molecules, Genes and Cells with Lab: Explores the structure and function of cells, the molecular basis of inheritance, and the processes of gene expression.
• Genetics with Lab: Provides an in-depth study of the principles of genetics, including Mendelian inheritance, molecular genetics, and genetic engineering.
• Biostatistics and Experimental Design with Lab: Develops students' skills in statistical analysis and experimental design, essential for conducting biological research.

Required Upper-Level Biology:

• Cellular and Molecular Analysis Laboratory: Provides hands-on experience in cellular and molecular biology techniques, such as microscopy, cell culture, and molecular cloning.
• Animal Physiology with Lab: Studies the physiological processes of animals, including circulation, respiration, digestion, and reproduction.
• Biology Seminar: Develops students' research and communication skills through the presentation of scientific literature and research findings.

Upper-Level Biology Electives:

Students can choose from a wide range of upper-level biology electives to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.

Related Sciences – Chemistry:

• General Chemistry I: Introduces the fundamental principles of chemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, and chemical reactions.
• General Chemistry II: Continues the study of chemistry, focusing on thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.
• Organic Chemistry I: Explores the structure, properties, and reactions of organic compounds.
• Organic Chemistry Laboratory I: Provides hands-on experience in organic chemistry techniques.

Related Sciences – Chemistry Advanced Elective:

Students can choose from Organic Chemistry II, Organic Chemistry Laboratory II, or Biochemistry I and Biochemistry Laboratory I to further their knowledge in chemistry.

Related Sciences – Physics:

• Elements of Physics II/ Lab: Introduces the fundamental principles of electricity, magnetism, and optics.
• University Physics 2 with Lab: Provides a more in-depth study of physics, including thermodynamics, waves, and quantum mechanics.

Independent Study/Internship Options:

• Independent Study Option: Allows students to pursue independent research projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
• Non-Independent Study Option: Provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a biology-related field through an internship.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams (midterms, finals)
• Quizzes
• Homework assignments
• Laboratory reports
• Research projects
• Presentations
• Participation in class discussions

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and scholarship. Teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Laboratory experiments
• Field trips
• Guest speakers
• Independent study

Careers:

Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of careers in biology, including:

• Research scientist
• Laboratory technician
• Healthcare professional
• Biotechnology specialist
• Science educator
• Environmental consultant