BIO.AS - Biology

The Biology option of the Liberal Arts and Sciences program primarily prepares graduates for transfer into the junior year of programs such as ecology, conservation, biology, microbiology, pharmacy, forestry, entomology, genetics, biotechnology, and preprofessional fields of medicine and dentistry. Biology graduates have transferred to colleges throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the northeast, including Rider University, Temple University, Cornell University, Rutgers University, Stockton College, The College of New Jersey, and Rowan University.

Graduates earning a four-year degree have been employed by various research institutes and industries. Others have successfully completed medical, dental, chiropractic, pharmaceutical, physical/occupational therapy, physician’s assistant, veterinary medicine, and other graduate programs.

The biology facilities include specially equipped laboratories for microbiology, genetics/molecular biology, and anatomy/physiology. Students learn a wide variety of investigative techniques, including microscopy, spectrophotometry, and gel electrophoresis. Real-life systems are studied through field trips to sites in the New Jersey Pinelands and elsewhere. A special honors sequence affords eligible students the opportunity to participate in a research project under the supervision of faculty at nearby Rider University, Monmouth University, or Princeton University as well as other research institutions.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

• Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles, concepts, and terminology of biology;

• Explain the structures and fundamental processes of life at molecular, cellular, and organismal levels;

• View the living world with greater understanding, insight, and appreciation as it relates to the field of biology and contemporary problems and issues;

• Demonstrate the ability to apply the scientific method of inquiry to gather and use information for the purposes of critical thinking, information analysis, and problem solving;

• Exhibit proficiency in the laboratory and in the field by using standard equipment and measurement and observation techniques that allow one to gather, analyze, and interpret qualitative data.

Most courses may be completed through part-time study in the evening. Course selection and program of study must be approved by an academic advisor.

Admission to the Biology option requires a high school diploma or equivalent with at least one year of science (biology, chemistry, or physics) and two years of academic mathematics. Successful completion of the Biology option results in the award of the Associate in Science degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences.