Recognizing the many sub-specialities in biology, the curriculum is also flexible, allowing the student to design an area of emphasis that matches their unique interests and goals. Students are given numerous opportunities to expand their writing and speaking abilities, not only through their laboratory and classroom experiences, but also in selected courses such as Introduction to Scientific Research and Senior Thesis. The Biology program has a strong chemistry and physics component, and many biology majors acquire a minor in chemistry by taking an additional chemistry course such as Instrumental Analysis. This allows graduates to qualify for jobs that require skills in both biology and chemistry. While mastery of subject matter is of prime importance, the curriculum also emphasizes the process of scientific inquiry through laboratory experimentation.
Students design and conduct experiments both within their courses and outside of the classroom.
Students are encouraged either to participate in undergraduate research projects with YCP faculty or to arrange a summer research experience with faculty at other institutions around the country. York College faculty offer a wide range of research opportunities for the student. Students, with their faculty mentors, may present their research findings at state and national scientific meetings. Papers have recently been presented by student-faculty teams in the areas of neurophysiology, exercise physiology, ornamental horticulture, plant development, animal behavior, microbial physiology and environmental microbiology. Additional research opportunities are available for students in molecular and cellular biology, genetics, biochemistry and reproductive physiology.