Biology Major

Kickstart your career with biology

Your future is bright with a biology degree from Bridgewater College. Whether you want to become a researcher, environmental expert or educator, you’ll benefit from our smaller class sizes, hands-on experience and close faculty mentorship designed to help you succeed.

What to Expect from the Biology Degree Program

• 43 credit hours of courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics that can be flexible and tailored to your career goals.
• Gain real-world experience through faculty-mentored research, summer fieldwork and internships.
• Thanks to tight-knit class structure, students get a high degree of interaction with knowledgeable faculty.

Biology Major Courses

You’ll start with a foundation of core biology courses covering organismal biology, genetics, molecular biology, physiology, ecology and evolution. As you progress, you’ll have the flexibility to specialize through upper-level courses and faculty-mentored research, allowing you to shape your biology degree around your career goals.

Principles of Biology I

BIOL-110

Introduction to the biological sciences, covering biological chemistry, cell/tissue structure and function, genetics and microevolution.

Genetics

BIOL-309

Introduction to both classical, Mendelian inheritance and molecular genetics with one lab per week.

Evolution

BIOL-430

Examination of the mechanisms of biological evolution including mutation, natural selection, genetic drift, and the genetic structure of species populations.

Interested in teaching biology?

You can also earn a teaching endorsement in biology in conjunction with the teacher education program.

Program Highlight

CONDUCT CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH

Perform independent research projects during the semester or the summer to apply what you’ve learned hands-on, with guidance from faculty mentors. Start almost immediately.

Careers You Can Pursue with a Biology Degree

A biology degree from Bridgewater College opens the door to a wide range of career paths in healthcare, research, education and industry. Our alumni have landed careers at the FBI, US Department of Energy, Novant Health and Merck pharmaceuticals among others. Their career paths include:

• Medicine and Healthcare
• Nursing and Clinical Lab Sciences
• Veterinary Medicine
• Pharmacy and Pharmacology
• Genetics and Genomics
• Laboratory Research
• Marine Biology
• Quality Assurance in Biotech
• Teaching and Education
• Hospital Administration

Get Involved: Biology and Science Clubs

Get involved in clubs that build professional knowledge, communication and leadership skills such as the Pre-Health Society and TriBeta, the national biological honor society. Be active in club administration, fundraising and event planning.

Pre-Health Society

As a Pre-Health Society member, you’ll have access to information and opportunities to explore a variety of careers in healthcare. Pursue your interest in fields such as medicine, nursing, dentistry, optometry, veterinary medicine, clinical lab sciences, dental hygiene, and physical and occupational therapy.

Tri-Beta National Biological Honor Society

Beta Beta Beta (Tri-Beta) National Biological Honor Society

TriBeta (Beta Beta Beta) is a national biological honor society represented at Bridgewater by the Nu Upsilon chapter. It emphasizes scholarship and service through research and education. Potential members must be biology majors with a 3.0 GPA in their major coursework.

Biology Facilities

The biology department is located on the first floor of the McKinney Center, which is Bridgewater’s comprehensive teaching center for science and mathematics.

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Biology Major at Bridgewater College: A Comprehensive Analysis

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Degree Overview:

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The Biology Major at Bridgewater College equips you with a solid foundation in the life sciences and prepares you for a variety of exciting careers in health, research, and environmental fields.

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The program emphasizes hands-on learning and research opportunities, allowing you to

apply your knowledge in real-world settings

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Key Objectives:

• comprehensive understanding of biological principles
• strong research and analytical skills
• Prepare for diverse career opportunities in healthcare, research, education, and environmental fields.
• critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Refine communication and collaboration skills through teamwork and presentations.

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Program Highlights:

• 43 credit hours of coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
• Option to add a secondary education endorsement for aspiring educators.
• Extensive research opportunities available throughout the program.
• Cutting-edge facilities and resources.

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Outline:

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Course Structure:

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The Biology Major curriculum is divided into core courses and electives, allowing you to tailor your learning to your specific interests.

• Genetics: Delve deeper into the mechanisms of heredity, exploring classical Mendelian inheritance and modern molecular genetics.
• Evolution: Examine the processes and mechanisms driving the diversity of life on Earth, from mutation to natural selection.
• Ecology: Investigate the interactions between organisms and their environment.
• Additional core courses cover areas like cell biology, molecular biology, and biostatistics.

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Electives:

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Choose from a wide range of electives to pursue your specific interests and career aspirations.

Some popular options include:

• Biotechnology: Learn about the applications of biological principles in various industries.
• Microbiology: Explore the world of microscopic organisms and their impact on health and the environment.
• Neuroscience: Investigate the structure and function of the nervous system.
• Wildlife Biology: Gain insights into the ecology and conservation of wildlife species.
• Pre-Medicine: Prepare for further studies in medical or veterinary schools.

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Assessment:

Your understanding of biological concepts will be assessed through various methods throughout the program, including:

• Laboratory reports: Analyze data, interpret results, and demonstrate your understanding of experimental design and scientific writing.
• Presentations: Communicate your research findings effectively and engage with your peers in a scientific setting.
• Independent research projects: Culminate your learning through independent research, showcasing your ability to design, conduct, and analyze research in a chosen area of biology.

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Teaching:

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The Biology program at Bridgewater College boasts a dedicated faculty of experienced and passionate educators.

• Laboratory sessions: Hands-on laboratory experiences provide opportunities to apply your theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills.
• Seminars and discussions: Engage in active learning through discussions, presentations, and group projects.
• Field trips: Immerse yourself in the natural world and observe biological phenomena firsthand.

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Faculty Expertise:

The program's faculty represents a diverse range of specializations within the biological sciences, including:

• Genetics
• Molecular biology
• Ecology
• Physiology
• Neuroscience
• Wildlife biology
• Environmental science

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Unique Approach:

• Emphasis on research: Bridgewater College provides ample opportunities for undergraduate research, allowing you to contribute to ongoing scientific endeavors and develop valuable research skills.
• Focus on real-world applications: The program emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing you for a successful career in various fields.

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Careers:

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A degree in Biology from Bridgewater College opens doors to a wide range of career paths in various sectors:

• Healthcare: Pursue careers as physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, physical therapists, and more.
• Research: Conduct research in academic institutions, government agencies, or biotechnology companies.
• Environmental fields: Become involved in conservation efforts, environmental policy, or resource management.
These services include:
• Career advising: Meet with career counselors to discuss your interests, skills, and career goals.
• Internship opportunities: Gain valuable work experience and network with professionals in your field.
• The program is designed to prepare students for graduate studies in biology and related fields.

• The College offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to support students' education.

Bridgewater College: A Summarization

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Overview:

Bridgewater College is a private, liberal arts college located in Virginia. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a close-knit community and personalized learning experience. The college prides itself on its affordable tuition, making a college degree accessible to a wider range of students.

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Services Offered:

Academics:

Bridgewater College offers a diverse selection of 60 majors and minors across various disciplines.

Admissions & Aid:

The college provides comprehensive support for prospective students, including application assistance, financial aid options, and a net price calculator to estimate individual costs.

Life at Bridgewater:

The college fosters a strong sense of community, with opportunities for student involvement in clubs, organizations, athletics, and social events.

Visit:

Prospective students can schedule campus tours, meet with current students and faculty, and experience the college environment firsthand.

Other:

Bridgewater College offers additional services such as career counseling, alumni networking, and a campus store.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Bridgewater College emphasizes a close-knit community where students are encouraged to participate in various activities and events. The college provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and socially.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Tuition:

Bridgewater College offers a competitive tuition rate, making a private college education more accessible.

Personalized Learning:

The college prioritizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a personalized learning experience.

Strong Community:

Bridgewater College cultivates a strong sense of community, encouraging student involvement and fostering lasting connections.

Focus on Experiential Learning:

The college offers opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad programs, enhancing their practical skills and knowledge.

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Academic Programs:

Bridgewater College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Undergraduate:

60 majors and minors across various disciplines, including the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

Graduate:

Four graduate programs, focusing on areas such as education, athletic training, and business.

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Other:

Connections Campaign:

The college is currently running a $35 million campaign to raise funds for scholarships, teaching and learning initiatives, and capital projects.

Summer Research Awards:

Bridgewater College provides funding for students to conduct research projects under the guidance of faculty members during the summer.

International Opportunities:

The college offers study abroad programs and opportunities for students to engage in global learning experiences.