Program Overview

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

The Biology, Bachelor of Science (BS) program with a concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology and an additional concentration in Bioinformatics is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of biological principles and practices, particularly in the areas of cellular and molecular biology, as well as the application of bioinformatics tools and techniques.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Competence in Laboratory and Research Skills: To conduct, assess, and communicate research investigations using established scientific practices.
• Core Concepts for Biological Literacy:
  • Knowledge/Content: Evolution, structure and function across all levels of biological organization, diversity and interactions of life, information flow, exchange, and storage in biological systems.
  • Critical Thinking/Problem Solving: Connect information from cognate science courses and liberal arts courses to biological concepts, apply scientific information to current and future societal problems.
• Participation in Diverse, Enriching Scientific Activities: Apply technical and professional skills in hands-on laboratory, clinical, or field experiences.
• Professional Attitude: Graduates demonstrate a professional attitude, behavior, and the ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Curriculum Guide

GPA Requirement

• Major GPA: 2.0 or higher
• Overall GPA: 2.0 or higher
• Core GPA: 2.0 or higher

Summary

The program requires a minimum of 120 credits, including:

• Rock Studies 2 Requirements: 45 credits
• Other Basic Requirements: 0-3 credits
• Major Requirements/Concentration: 76 credits
• Natural Science and Math College-Wide Requirements: 12 credits
• Electives: 15 credits

Rock Studies 2 Requirements

Includes courses such as University Seminar, Critical Writing, Critical Reading, Precalculus or Calculus I, and others that fulfill the integrated inquiry, creative and aesthetic inquiry, humanities inquiry, social science inquiry, natural sciences inquiry, and thematic thread requirements.

Major Requirements/Concentration

• Biology Core Requirements: Biology I and II with labs, 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: Select 6 credits from a list of upper-level biology courses.
• Related Sciences Chemistry: General Chemistry II, Organic Chemistry I and II with labs, Biochemistry I with lab.
• Related Sciences Physics: Elements of Physics II with lab or University Physics 2 with lab.
• Independent Study/Internship Options: Independent Study or Biology Internship.

Concentration in Bioinformatics Requirements

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

Co-curricular and Experiential Learning

Students are encouraged to participate in student-faculty research, internships, volunteering, and job shadowing to enhance their learning experience and career prospects.

Important Curriculum Guide Notes

The curriculum guide is subject to change, and students should consult their faculty advisers and the My Rock Audit Report for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their degree requirements.

Recommended Four-Year Plan

A detailed plan outlining the suggested course sequence for each semester to help students stay on track and complete their degree requirements within four years.

Conclusion

The Biology, Bachelor of Science (BS) program with concentrations in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics at Slippery Rock University is a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for careers in biological sciences, research, and related fields. With its strong emphasis on laboratory and research skills, core concepts for biological literacy, participation in diverse scientific activities, and professional attitude, this program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to succeed in their chosen paths.