Biology, Minor
Program Overview
The Biology Minor provides students with a strong foundation in the biological sciences through classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experience. The program emphasizes scientific methods, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility while complementing a wide range of majors and preparing students for graduate study or careers in biology-related fields.
Students complete coursework in biology and related sciences, exploring topics such as cellular and molecular biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. The minor also includes advanced biology electives, providing students with a broader understanding of the biological sciences and strengthening their preparation for professional and academic opportunities.
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PLO 1: Design and perform experiments that demonstrate the scientific method, incorporate vocabulary and college, and analyze data, and write a cogent lab report.
PLO 2: Make oral presentations that demonstrate the scientific method.
PLO 3: Demonstrate connections among population biology, ecology and evolution, molecular and cellular biology and organismal biology, and among biology, chemistry and physics.
PLO 4: Make qualitative and quantitative assessments of their own data as well as that in scientific literature.
PLO 5: Create and explain illustrations of biological phenomena.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Code | Title | Credits |
BIO-1201 | General Biology I | 3 |
BIO-1201L | General Biology I Laboratory | 2 |
BIO-1202 | General Biology II | 3 |
BIO-1202L | General Biology II Laboratory | 2 |
BIO-2250 | Introduction to Cell Biology | 3 |
BIO-2250L | Introduction to Cell Biology Laboratory | 1 |
CHE-1201 | General Chemistry I | 4 |
CHE-1201L | General Chemistry I Laboratory | 1 |
CHE-1202 | General Chemistry II | 4 |
CHE-1202L | General Chemistry II Lab | 1 |
| Total Credits | 24 |
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
Strong Foundation in Biological Sciences – Explore core concepts in cellular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and organismal biology through introductory courses such as General Biology I and II.
• Hands-On Laboratory Experience – Develop practical scientific skills through laboratory work that emphasizes observation, experimentation, and data analysis.
• Advanced Elective Options – Choose upper-level biology courses to explore specialized topics such as cell biology, genetics, ecology, physiology, or molecular biology.
• Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking – Learn how to apply the scientific method, analyze research findings, and interpret biological data.
• Interdisciplinary Learning – Complement majors in areas such as health sciences, psychology, environmental studies, or education with a strong background in biological science.
• Preparation for Future Study – Build a solid foundation for graduate study or professional programs in health, environmental science, research, and related fields.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
🧬 Healthcare & Medical Fields
• Build a strong science foundation for careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and other health professions.
🧪 Laboratory or Research Assistant
• Work in research labs conducting experiments, analyzing samples, and supporting scientific discoveries.
🌿 Environmental & Conservation Careers
• Contribute to protecting ecosystems and biodiversity with environmental organizations or government agencies.
💊 Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Industry
• Support research, product development, and laboratory analysis in biotech and pharmaceutical companies.
🌎 Science Education & Outreach
• Help inspire future scientists through programs in schools, museums, and science centers.
🎓 Graduate & Professional Studies
• Strengthen preparation for advanced degrees in biology, health sciences, environmental science, and related fields.