Biology

Learning Goals & Mission

Mission

In support of the University Mission, the Department of Biology provides individual attention and grounding in the Life Sciences while fostering the education of a diverse community of learners. The Department of Biology, committed to academic excellence, provides a broad-based, challenging education that encourages students to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately, and uphold justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment.

Learning Goals

Goal #1: To understand the fundamental biological principles

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. to have knowledge of basic facts in the biological sciences
  2. to have knowledge of the terminology in the biological sciences
  3. to have knowledge of the basic concepts and theories in biology
  4. to understand the diversity and complexity of the living world.
  5. to have knowledge of the continuous research and advancements being made in various areas of the biological sciences

Goal #2: To develop critical thinking and analytical abilities, and using the scientific method

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. to critically evaluate scientific literature
  2. to design and implement experiments with predictive hypotheses
  3. to analyze and interpret findings of experiments

Goal #3: To apply their knowledge of science to make informed, ethical decisions

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. to understand the ethical codes of conduct in scientific research, including academic and social ethics
  2. to acknowledge, understand, and appreciate the ethical and moral implications of biological research.

Goal #4: To effectively communicate scientific information with an ever- changing society

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. to develop effective writing skills in the form of a scientific paper
  2. to develop oral communication skills

Goal #5: To develop familiarity and utilization of a variety of laboratory techniques, working with organisms ranging from microbes to mammals

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. to demonstrate familiarity in the use of standard laboratory equipment
  2. to demonstrate familiarity in the use of techniques both in the laboratory and in the field