Both degree programs prepare students for admission to graduate or professional schools, leading either to a variety of professional health careers or further study in basic and applied areas of biology. The Bachelor of Arts program is also appropriate for students interested in teaching biology at the secondary school level and for careers that bear on the ecological problems that require the development of public policy. The cell biology major is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the cell, the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. The major emphasizes the principles that govern how biomolecules interact with one another to organize themselves into higher order structures that comprise cells and how cellular organization and function contributes to the development, maintenance and reproduction of adult organisms. The major integrates principles derived from the physical sciences, genetics, biochemistry, and physiology to facilitate understanding the biology of living cells.
Academic work emphasizes the experimental nature of cell biology.
The major in evolution and ecology offers the student a broad background in the theoretical and empirical basis of our understanding of the evolution and ecology of living organisms. The program of study for the evolution and ecology major begins with a core of introductory courses in mathematics, physical sciences, and biology. These are followed by survey courses in evolution and ecology, and more specialized courses that allow the student to focus his or her studies. Evolution and ecology majors may earn either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree. A degree in evolution and ecology prepares the student for career opportunities in research, teaching, health professions, veterinary medicine, agriculture, environmental management, and industry.