Biology Major and Minor
The science of biology is a process of inquiry, using experimentation and observation to gain understanding of living systems and their interactions with nature. The purpose of the biology major is to acquire knowledge of the basics in the discipline, and, through a modern curriculum, prepare students for careers in the biological sciences. The biology major provides broad preparation appropriate for health-related careers, professional or graduate schools, government or industry, or teacher preparation. The curriculum is designed to ensure that students learn about animals, plants, and microorganisms at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels of analysis. Courses are taught in a variety of styles including lecture, small group collaboration, and hands-on approaches that often involve a range of resources, including computer software, the World Wide Web, and field experiences.
A strong emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and sound scientific reasoning skills. As part of the student’s capstone experience, he/she will work with a faculty member on an independent project, typically a collaborative research project or an internship. Student interns gain practical work-related experience through affiliations with local laboratories, hospitals, physical therapy and veterinary clinics, industries, and government agencies responsible for natural resources.
It is strongly recommended that the student select MATH 103 (Calculus I) as the General Education math requirement. Most health-related careers require additional courses as prerequisites. Each student will need to meet with his/her advisor on a regular basis to ensure that the appropriate courses are being selected.
|
The objective of the Biology Major is to promote learning of the basics of the discipline and through a modern curriculum, prepare students for a career in the biological sciences. The curriculum is designed to ensure coverage of animals, plants, and microorganisms at the molecular, cellular, organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels of analysis. The Biology major provides broad training for health-related careers, professional or graduate schools, government or industry, and teacher preparation. |
| The science of biology is a process of inquiry using experimentation and observation in the search for an understanding of nature's laws. Numerous opportunities exist for student learning and activities, both here and abroad. Our students also participate in many hands-on endeavors such as internships and research projects. In addition, many of our students are interested in pursuing a career in the health sciences. Our faculty provide academic advising for these students, to best enable them to achieve their goals. |
 |
Degree Requirements Specific Requirements for the Major/Minor (PDF) Biology Major Course Schedule Template Lynchburg College Catalog (follow links for UG courses & BIOL) |
| Facilities The Biology Program is located on the main floor of Hobbs Hall. This state of the art building houses cell/molecular biology instrumentation, a human cadaver lab, anatomical and physiological software, and research quality microscopes. Computer Lab |
 |
 |
The Claytor Nature Study Center consists of a 470-acre property located near the Peaks of Otter. Recently donated to the College, the center allows students to gain field experience and to study the application of classroom theories. On site is the Husted Pavilion for research use, and the Environmental Education Center building is currently under construction. When completed, it will house a conference facility and state-of-the-art research labs. |
Herbarium and GreenhouseThe Ramsey-Freer Herbarium is a facility in the School of Science that is believed to be the longest running research effort on campus. The Herbarium houses the largest private college plant collection in the Commonwealth. A recently renovated greenhouse is also available. |
|
For more information about the Biology Program, contact Dr. Kari Benson, benson@lynchburg.edu