The biology degree provides students with current, practical knowledge of plants and animals, emphasizing whole organism biology in both ecological and evolutionary contexts. Broad, synthetic training, from molecular to community levels of organization, equips students to address critical issues and contemporary biological problems associated with the long-term preservation of earth's biodiversity. Elective flexibility allows students to emphasize the botanical or zoological fields, or create a combined program of study. Undergraduate research opportunities may include internships, museum collections curation, bioinventory and data-basing activities, applied molecular genetics, and field and laboratory research in ecology, conservation biology, or evolutionary biology. VIEW MAP
One objective of this program is to provide solid preparation for post graduate studies. For that reason students should take advantage of research opportunities. Department faculty conduct field and laboratory research on diverse topics (including conservation biology, molecular systematics, evolution of life history strategies, biogeographical ecology, bioinventories, aquatic ecology, and bioassessment). Undergraduates have studied black bears in Utah, mouse systematics in Mexico, stonefly and trout biogeography in the western U.S., turtles in Amazonia, insects in Borneo, and fish predation in the Provo River. The mentoring option allows up to 4 hours of Bio 399R, 494R, and 559R research credit to substitute elective hours in the Organismal Biology and Biological Processes lists (as approved by a faculty mentor).
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING, INTERNSHIPS, COOP EDUCATION, AND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE:
Undergraduates can seek paid positions in research laboratories. Cooperative programs with the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service may be available, as is summer employment with state and federal agencies. This can lead to permanent employment. Completing Bio 430, PWS 330 and 355 can increase summer employment options with government agencies.
Post-graduate study in a wide-variety of sub disciplines in biology (molecular biology, genetics, ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, etc.), as well as preparation for medical or dental school. Students may also pursue employment as a biologist in state and federal agencies, nongovernment organizations, and research laboratories.
Students in this major may apply for university, college, and departmental scholarships. A number of research or teaching assistant positions for undergraduate students also exist.
Chem 105* General College Chemistry
Chem 106 General College Chemistry
Chem 107 General College Chemistry Lab