Department Mission

The Department of Biological Sciences provides a rigorous and applied learning experience that integrates the fundamental sciences of biology, chemistry and physics. We serve a highly diverse student population coming from a range of ethnic and educational backgrounds. As a department, we focus on a personalized approach to education, tailoring each experience to meet the academic and career goals of the individual student. By maintaining small class sizes and emphasizing group activities, our students interact directly with the faculty and with each other on a regular basis.

The degrees offered in the biological sciences are designed to prepare students for rewarding careers as scientists, educators, professionals, and global citizens. The department currently offers four baccalaureate programs (a BA in biology and a BS in biological sciences, each with associated emphases, a BS in chemistry and a BS in exercise science) and four minor programs (biology, chemistry, exercise science and general science). We also offer individual courses satisfying the requirements for general education and special interest courses in environmental studies, education and health science.

Given the importance of independent research and experimentation in science, the department faculty are committed to providing hands-on research opportunities to all majors in the biological sciences. Our curriculum includes extensive laboratory experience, ensuring that each student will develop proficiency in a wide range of lab techniques, as well as in the analysis, interpretation and presentation of scientific data.