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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?�

Community and Belonging:  We celebrate the many backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences within our community. By promoting a culture of belonging and mutual respect, we strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment where all individuals can thrive and contribute.

Experiential Learning: Students learn best by doing. We value hands-on experiences and reflection so 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 Biological Sciences major provides a broad background for students interested in biology. The core program is flexible, thereby permitting the student latitude in the area of emphasis. However, students who wish to narrow their focus can elect a concentration in either Cellular and Molecular Biology or Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. A goal of the major is to provide students with the necessary background for entry-level career positions and graduate study.

The department also offers Biological Sciences majors the opportunity to select all of the EDU secondary education certification courses (listed below) as their electives to become middle or high school teachers (grades 7–12) in life science.