Biology, B.S.

Kate Cooper, Ph.D., Chair

The biology program exists within the framework of a liberal arts college, in the fulfillment of its mission, and as such is dedicated to (1) providing access to fundamental concepts of biology for all students and (2) providing access to specialized biological knowledge for majors who rely on this knowledge for their particular career goals. The program also serves as a source of expertise, both research and instructional, for the local community, State of Iowa and beyond, and provides students the opportunity to learn through participation in this service experience. In both instances, this access and service is afforded in a Catholic atmosphere where moral and ethical implications of biological knowledge and earth’s stewardship are raised to the students and various public entities.

The biology program offers majors in biology and biological research. The biology major is designed for those students wishing a broad background in biology, but who do not wish to pursue a research orientation; the biological research major is designed for those students wishing research experience. Successful completion of a comprehensive examination given during the senior year is required of all majors.

Student Learning Outcomes - Biology

1. Articulate scientific results and interpretation effectively in an oral presentation.
2. Write effectively to communicate scientific information.
3. Design valid and appropriate experiments to answer biological questions.
4. Accurately interpret and analyze biological data and statistics.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the botany of plants.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of rules of genetic inheritance.
7. Describe important molecules and pathways that allow cells to function in tissues.
8. Apply ecological and evolutionary theory to current ecological problems.
9. Compare normal physiological body functions with diseased body functions.