Bachelor of Arts Major in Biological Sciences

Bachelor of Arts Major in Biological Sciences Students must complete a minimum of 124 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 2.0 in order to earn the bachelor of arts degree with a major in biological sciences. Knowledge 1. Demonstrate mastery of general content knowledge from several sub-disciplines, including evolution, ecology, genetics, and molecular biology. Critical Thinking 2. Describe science as a way of knowing, including the role of the scientific method and hypothesis-driven research and discovery in the development of scientific knowledge. Critical Analysis 3. Critically evaluate new knowledge, information, and claims in the discipline. Experimental Design and Application 4. Demonstrate laboratory skills and integrate knowledge and skills to formulate relevant questions and design appropriate experiments to advance knowledge in the discipline. Society and Ethics 5. Integrate knowledge of the discipline with broader knowledge gained through a liberal arts education to analyze the potential societal implications of new knowledge in the discipline. Professionalism 6. Demonstrate oral and written communication skills necessary for entry into the profession or further study. Career Opportunities The program of studies is sufficiently flexible to prepare students to pursue careers in cell and molecular biology, botany, microbiology, physiology or zoology as graduate students. Programs in the department also prepare students for professional fields such as dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, medical technology, nursing or physical therapy. No matter what career objective, the student is exposed to the major areas of the biological sciences, and thus may make an intelligent choice of specialization in post-baccalaureate study. Preparation for admission to the undergraduate program should include high school work in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, biology, chemistry and physics. Experiential Learning Opportunities Many students participate in undergraduate research (BIOL 197). Over a period of one or more semesters these students closely interact with faculty on research projects and get hands-on experience with modern research instruments. Stipends are available to selected undergraduates for summer research. Awardees are given the title of Hornage Undergraduate Research Fellow. Students also are encouraged to participate in Co-op/Internship experiences at dental offices, medical clinics, Micke Grove Zoo and other work areas.