Biology
Tracks
The program content consists of three study tracks or options in the area of Biology: Life Sciences, Bioinformatics, and Biotechnology.
Life Science Track
This track is for those students who have an interest in Biology on an organismal or physiological level and wish to study the roles and interdependence that organisms have within an ecological system. Students will be prepared for careers that may involve but are not limited to the assessment of environmental impact as a result of human enterprise, the control of animal and biological pests in a safe ecological manner, the impact of genetically altered plants and animals on the environment, the biological effects of global warming, etc.
Bioinformatics Track
This track is for those students who have an interest in statistics and computer science and would like to apply those interests to the biological sciences. This new field deals with the extraction of information from biological research data, such as information about the function of complex biological molecules or the role that genes play in the production of human characteristics and illnesses.
In addition, bioinformatics will provide information on the design of new drugs that utilize genetic and molecular characteristics to enhance their efficacy. Normally, the Bachelor’s Degree forms the foundation for further graduate study in this new and exciting field.
Biotechnology Track (anticipated 2015)
This track is designed for those who are mainly interested in Biology on a molecular or chemical level and encompasses such areas as biochemistry and molecular biology as well as the analytical aspects of biological research. This track will help prepare students for a career that may involve work in molecular or cellular research, pharmaceutical development or genetic engineering.