Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Science - Pathobiology Concentration

The biological sciences encompass many fields. Biologists study the structure and functions of living organisms, from the individual cell to the whole organism and communities. In the past three decades, advances in molecular biology and genetics have been rapid, opening many new, exciting career opportunities in the fields of biotechnology and genetic engineering. Biology graduates can pursue a variety of options including graduate and professional school in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine and other health-related areas, as well as careers in research or commercial laboratories, private and government agencies, and in teaching. The Pathobiology concentration focuses on the underlying mechanisms of disease and provides students with the unique option to gain in-depth training in pathogenesis. The four required courses provide students with a foundation in immunology and microbiology, as well as an understanding of how microorganisms contribute to disease and how the body works to prevent disease and infection. Required courses in the concentration include: BIO 221 Microbiology BIO 223 Parasitology or BIO 420 Virology BIO 320 Microbial Pathogenesis BIO 426 Immunology Selection of two additional pathobiology electives, two lab electives and two selections from the cell/molecular/genetics/biochemistry (CMGB) and ecology/evolution/genomics (EEG) focus areas allows students to apply core knowledge in cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry in order to understand pathogenic diseases and the host response. This concentration will prepare students for careers in public health, medicine, and industry, and for further research in immunology and the mechanisms underlying infectious diseases. CAREERS Our alums go on to have careers in medicine, veterinary sciences, dentistry and other allied health professions, including careers as physician assistants, physical and occupational therapists. Many hold research positions in the private sector; become technicians in government and academic labs; or work as research scientists and professors in diverse fields such as cancer biology, cell and molecular biology, neuroscience, immunology and forensic biology. Other career paths include genetic counseling, clinical trials coordination, bioinformatics, genomics, clinical lab medicine, public health, policy, science journalism, teaching and law. Biologists may also be employed in “green” jobs in biotechnology, field research, evolutionary biology, biodiversity and conservation. The opportunities are numerous and varied.