2008-2009 Catalog 
    
    Dec 05, 2024  
2008-2009 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biology, BS


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Outcomes

  • Apply the scientific method to the study of life and other biological principles and core concepts, including the ability to create a hypothesis given a specific scenario
  • Acquire proficiency in lab techniques and computer based analysis specific to the biological field and adequately describe the principles and core concepts behind these techniques
  • Read and analyze scientific papers, demonstrate critical thinking, and be able to effectively communicate through both oral and written means the principles and core concepts of biology to members of the scientific and non-scientific community
  • Apply the logic of energy flow to any biological principle or core concept
  • Articulate concepts regarding the connections between molecules, cell organisms, the ecosystem within the framework of evolution and the impact of evolution on ethical issues

Major General Requirements


Credit hours:


 The biology major must complete at least 30 hours of course work in biology including a minimum of 16 hours in upper division (300-400 level) courses.

Grades:


A grade of C- or above must be attained in all required courses.

Chemistry:


All Biology students are required to complete these sequences in chemistry:

Note:

If you take CHEM 331/333 then you are required to take CHEM 332/334 to finish the sequence. The department will not substitute 331/333 or 332/334 for 330/340.

And, depending on the option (see advisor):


Note:

Some Biology options require additional chemistry courses. Please check with your advisor about those courses.

Mathematics:


All Biology majors are required to complete the following math courses:

Note:


Some Biology options require additional math courses.

Independent Study/Externships:


A maximum of 8 hours of credit taken in BIOL 940-949 (Independent Studies) and BIOL 471-474 (Externships) count toward the major.

Biology Major Study Options and Course Requirements


Note: Students must see their advisor to declare a biology option from the choices below; options should be declared no later than the end of the sophomore year

Note: All 300-level courses and above presume the student having General Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and General Physics. FAILURE TO TAKE COURSES IN THE RECOMMENDED SEQUENCE WILL RESULT IN FUTURE CONFLICTS

Options for Biology Major


  • Human Biology Option: offered for students who are interested in pre-professional programs such as medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy and others or those wanting knowledge about human biology.
  • Exercise Science Option: offers a unique experience and the opportunity to gain knowledge from faculty whose specialties are in exercise physiology, biomechanics and sports nutrition. The program is grounded in science and the application of science to exercise. Graduates of this program may pursue careers in sports medicine or physical therapy, or continue their education with graduate degrees in exercise physiology.
  • Molecular, Cellular and Biotech Option: offered for students who want to understand biology at the molecular level, where it is governed by the laws of Physics and Chemistry. Graduates of this program may pursue careers in medicine, research, biotechnology and bioinformatics that exist in academic, government and private industry settings.
  • Organismic/Environmental Option: offered for students interested in organisms, ecology, and evolution. This option gives students the opportunity to study the structure and functions of cells in animals and plants. Graduates of this program may pursue careers in wildlife management, ecology and natural resources.
  • Biology Education Option: A degree option is available for elementary, secondary and special education teachers.

Please contact the Student Success Center or the College of Education for further information.

Curricular Requirements for Biology Options


Course Requirements for Human Biology Option


Math Requirements for Human Biology Option

  • or a score of 10 or above on the calculus readiness exam. A score of >15 is preferred

Course Requirements for Exercise Science Option


Chemistry Requirements for Exercise Science Option

Math Requirements for Exercise Science Option

  • (or a score of 10 or above on the calculus readiness exam. A score of >15 is preferred)

Course Requirements for Molecular, Cellular and Biotech Option


Complete one Biology Elective Metabolism/physiology course from the following list:

Math Requirements for Molecular, Cellular and Biotech Option

Course Requirements for Organismic/Environmental Option


Math Requirements for Organismic/Environmental Option

  • or a score of 10 or above on the calculus readiness exam. A score of >15 is preferred.

Honors Program


The department of Biology offers a program for honors in biology to outstanding junior and senior students at UCCS. Individuals wishing to take advantage of this program should contact the department chair at the beginning of their junior year.

Qualifications for admissions to the honors program consist of a minimum grade point average of 3.5 overall. The honors applicant must complete BIOL 949 to be eligible for the honors program. Through the recommendation of the faculty of the Department of Biology, the successful honor student’s degree diploma will bear the citation “with distinction, or high distinction or highest distinction in Biology.” Honors students are required to form a faculty committee, complete a research project and present the research findings to the Biology Department at a seminar. Consult with a faculty advisor for more information regarding the Honors Program.

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