The overall mission of the department is to provide students with a solid and rigorous foundation in biology, emphasizing a balance between the molecular/cellular and organisms/population areas of the field. While attempting to find order in life through comparisons and classifications, the biologist looks at the underlying principles involved in energy transformation, evolutionary mechanisms and regulatory forces. How is each individual unique and how does it function as part of a larger population in a community of different species? In the broadest sense, biologists take a worldview of living organisms and their roles in the global ecosystem.
Towards this end, it is imperative that students be subjected to scientific diversity and realizes the far-reaching implications of this field of study. It is equally critical for students to develop strong communication and presentation skills if they are to succeed. Therefore, the Biology program provides students exposure to many specific areas of study that can subsequently enable them to pursue an unlimited number of vocational directions. Moreover, the Biology curriculum is designed to cultivate effective communication and presentation skills.
Goals:
1) Acquire a knowledge of the nature of science in general and Biology in particular to pursue careers in Biology and graduate/professions school.
2) Acquire a knowledge and proficiency in experimental procedures and techniques suitable for careers in industry or graduate school.
3) Acquire an introduction to the theories, methodologies and the philosophy of science and Biology in particular.
4) Develop critical thinking skills which meet or exceed the skills possessed by graduates of comparable academic institutions.
5) Creatively ask biological questions, design and conduct research experiments and communicate clearly these results.
Biology Research Series:
An authentic research experience is a key part of the Biology program’s mission. All Biology majors participate in a research experience with the guidance of faculty mentors. In either the third or fourth year, students enroll in two consecutive courses (Fall and Spring). Biology Inquiry I (BIO 392 ) and Biology Inquiry II (BIO 393 ) are designed to engage students in one of several on-going, cutting edge research projects. Students will work collaboratively to hone skills in experimental design, technical skills in the laboratory and field, and data analysis and interpretation. Additionally, students communicate the results of their research using oral, visual, and written formats to a variety of audiences. Biology students develop a deeper understanding of the scientific process and the confidence and skills to be successful in their future careers paths.
Biology Concentrations:
Students may tailor their curriculum to achieve specific academic goals by declaring a concentration. The Department of Biological Sciences offers three concentrations (see list below) within biology to allow students to develop a greater depth of knowledge in specific areas to prepare them for specific career paths.
Biotechnology: This concentration is designed for students that are interested in developing a greater understanding of the tools and techniques used in biomedical and health based industries. Courses within this concentration provide students “hands-on” and “real-world” experience with these applications and techniques. Students that are interested in careers in pharmaceuticals, biotech industry, and science/technical writing may want to consider this concentration.
Cell and Molecular Biology: This concentration is designed for students who are interested in developing a greater understanding of the cellular and molecular aspect of biology ranging from microbes to animals. Courses within this concentration provide a student with application-based experiences and knowledge of how genetic information works to create and control cellular actions and the interactions with an organism. Students that are interested in careers in biomedical research, forensics, bioinformatics, or graduate or professional programs in molecular biology may want to consider this concentration.
Ecology and Conservation: This concentration is designed for students who are interested in developing a greater understanding of the distribution and abundance of organisms, the relationships among organisms and the abiotic environment, and applying ecological principles to conserve biological diversity and generate solutions for environmental problems. Courses within this concentration provide interdisciplinary knowledge and hands-on experience in techniques and data analysis necessary to tackle contemporary challenges. Students that are interested in careers in ecological research, environmental consulting and planning, natural resource management and restoration, environmental education, or graduate or professional programs in ecological fields may want to consider this concentration.
Requirements for Graduation:
To be eligible for graduation, students majoring in Biology must complete a minimum of 120 credits, achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in all Biology major course requirements, satisfy the College’s residency requirements, and complete the General Education Requirements of the College. A minimum grade of 2.0 is required for First Year Seminar and all courses taken as part of Foundations. Courses used to complete General Education Requirements may not be taken on a pass/fail basis.
The General Education Requirements of the college require students to successfully complete First Year Seminar, Foundations (FCO 103 will be a required co-requisite with FCO 105 for students who have a high school GPA below 3.20), Disciplinary Perspectives, and a Constellation. Students who enter the college with 30 credit hours completed will not take a First Year Seminar course and therefore must take an additional 3 credits for graduation. Transfer students that are awarded 60 or more credits upon acceptance to York College will not be required to complete a Constellation.
Students transferring into Biology must complete at least four Biology courses at York College in order to graduate as a Biology major. Acceptable courses are determined by the major advisor and the Department Chair.
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