May 21, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Catalog

Biological Sciences, Organismal and Ecological Studies Track, B.S.


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Graduates will demonstrate foundational biological knowledge, technical and analytical competence, and professional skills that prepare them for employment in laboratory, field, education, biotechnology, and environmental sectors, as well as for graduate and healthcare professional study.  

 

Program Learning Outcomes 

1. Core Biological Knowledge 

Explain and integrate major concepts in evolution, ecology, genetics, cellular and molecular biology, microbiology, and physiology to interpret biological structure-function relationships and biological change across molecular, cellular, organismal, and ecological levels of organization. 

2. Laboratory and Field Skills 

Demonstrate correct and safe use of standard laboratory and field equipment as well as techniques to collect, record, and analyze biological data, including locating and following applicable safety protocols and permitting requirements. 

3. Research Design and Ethical Scientific Practice 

Design, conduct, and interpret independent and collaborative biological investigations by developing testable hypotheses, applying ethical research practices, managing data, selecting appropriate analytical methods, and producing professional research products (e.g., reports, posters, presentations). 

4. Quantitative Reasoning and Bioinformatics 

Apply quantitative reasoning, statistical methods, and (when appropriate) bioinformatics or computational tools to evaluate evidence, and analyze biological datasets.

5. Scientific Communication and Information Literacy 

Locate, evaluate, and synthesize primary scientific literature and communicate scientific information clearly in written, oral, and visual forms for technical and non-technical audiences using appropriate data visualization and disciplinary conventions. 

6. Environmental and Societal Responsibility 

Demonstrate the ability to identify and describe the impact of biological sciences on the environment and  society.

Freshman


Sophomore


Junior


Senior


Fall Semester


Total: 16


Spring Semester


Total: 16


Minimum credits for a B.S. degree in Biological Sciences: 120


Biology Electives


Courses required for one curricular track can serve as biology electives for the other track.

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