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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 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 Medical Biology major is designed to provide a strong foundation in the biological sciences for students who ultimately pursue careers in human medicine, dentistry, other health professions (e.g. physical therapy), biomedical research, or the biotechnology industry. 

The pre-physician assistant track is designed for students who wish to eventually enroll in a physician assistant program. This track provides students with a solid foundation in the biological sciences at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and organismal levels. In addition to the comprehensive introduction to general biology, the courses offered in this track introduce the student to the fields of physiology, biochemistry, cellular biology, and genetics. This track includes those courses that are prerequisite courses for entrance into physician assistant schools. In addition, students in this track have the opportunity to complete off-campus internships for college credit (e.g. in a hospital, clinical, or laboratory setting).