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At the heart of our mission lies a dedication to nurturing a vibrant learning environment where students are active participants and collaborators. We believe in the transformative power of experiential learning, in guiding students through hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice, and in preparing them to navigate real-world challenges with confidence and insight. We strive to create welcoming spaces where every voice is heard and valued. Grounded in academic rigor and scientific integrity, we equip students with the tools and knowledge to critically engage with complex biological concepts and global issues. As stewards of both knowledge and the environment, we inspire a sense of responsibility, and encourage innovation for a healthier planet.

Our Core Values

Student Centeredness

Every decision we make is predicated by the question, “What is best for our students?”

Experiential Learning

Students learn best by doing. We value hands-on experiences and reflection so that students can connect theories and knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Information Literacy

We strive to instill students with knowledge and skills needed to develop a data-driven understanding of biological processes and their global implications.
 

Academic Rigor

We embrace uncompromising standards of academic rigor and strive for excellence in all facets of teaching and research.

Scientific Integrity

We adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards when teaching, conducting, and reporting research.

Environmental Stewards

We promote environmental stewardship by fostering an understanding of biological systems and their susceptibility to human impacts, and by recognizing our shared responsibility for planetary health.

Collaboration

Scientific progress thrives when minds come together. We strive to create a collaborative environment where students and instructors come together to engage in teamwork through shared learning experiences and joint research projects.

The department also offers a graduate degree in Biological Sciences (master’s level), which is detailed in the graduate portion of this catalog. Visit our graduate programs catalog page for details.

A Biological Sciences minor requires six (6) biology courses, including the Introductory Biology series. Regardless of their major, students who wish to fulfill a Biological Sciences minor must select four (4) additional courses beyond those required for their major. No biology courses can satisfy both the major and minor requirements except for the introductory 100-level courses.

Topic Area Courses

Please note: While some courses can fulfill both core and program requirements, the credits earned do not count twice towards the minimum total required credits for the degree.

BIO 290 may fulfill biology area requirements depending on the subject matter and advisor permission.