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University of Lynchburg

/ Academics / Majors and Minors / Biology Major / Program Goals

Program Goals

Biology Major

Lynchburg’s Biology Program exposes students to a broad range of biological knowledge, stressing an inquiry-based approach that fosters student-centered, active learning. We provide an environment in which students can develop a strong foundation in biology enabling them to think critically, learn technical skills for solving biological problems, and communicate biological information in oral and written formats.

Students master the basic principles of biology, gain an appreciation for the diversity of life, recognize evolution as the fundamental underpinning of biological understanding, and identify and value elegant science through traditional classroom training, experiential learning, and close interactions between students and faculty.

Our goal is to prepare students for careers in field biology, laboratory biology, education and the health sciences, as well as provide the requisite structure for graduates to pursue advanced degrees. The program’s curriculum prepares all students for a lifetime of learning and to take an active leadership role in society by making informed decisions on issues that impact our lives.

Goals of the Biology Major

Goal 1: Undergraduate students in Biology will be able to demonstrate basic knowledge in the field of biology.
Objective 1.2 – Molecular and cellular biology of organisms
Undergraduate students in Biology will describe the basic biology of organisms at the molecular and cellular level.

Objective 1.3 – Ecological & historical constraints
Undergraduate students in Biology will describe how ecological and historical constraints dictate the basic structures and functions of organisms.

Objective 1.4 – How organisms interact
Undergraduate students in Biology will explain how organisms interact with one another and their environment.

Objective 1.5 – Integrate concepts among biological sub-disciplines
Undergraduate students in Biology will integrate concepts among biological sub-disciplines to understand complex biological phenomena.

Goal 2: Undergraduate students in Biology will develop a conceptual framework to understand the use and application of biological principles.

Objective 2.1 – Major achievements, historical contexts, current issues
Undergraduate students in Biology will describe major achievements, historical contexts, and current issues in Biology.

Objective 2.2 – Effectively ask empirical questions
Undergraduate students in biology will effectively ask empirical questions.

Objective 2.3 – Utilize scientific methods and evaluate design
Undergraduate students in Biology will utilize scientific methods of investigation and evaluate benefits and limitations of different research designs.

Objective 2.4 – Review and analyze existing knowledge
Undergraduate students in Biology will thoroughly review background literature, and critically analyze existing knowledge.

Objective 2.5 – Derive sound conclusions from experimental data
Undergraduate students in Biology will derive sound conclusions from experimental data.

Goal 3: Undergraduate students in Biology will develop the technical skills of the discipline.

Objective 3.1.1 – Modern technological equipment to explore concepts
Use modern technological equipment to explore biological concepts.

Objective 3.2 – Quantitatively analyze and compare data
Quantitatively analyze and compare original data to data published in the scientific literature.

Objective 3.2.1 – Tests and technology to analyze data
Use appropriate tests and technology to analyze data.

Objective 3.2.2 – Graph data in appropriate forms
Graph data in appropriate forms using current technology.

Objective 3.3 – Communicate written/oral-scientific community
Communicate effectively in written and oral formats with lay and scientific communities.

Objective 3.4 – Independent research or Internship
Perform independent experiential study in the form of research with faculty members and/or internships in the community.

Objective 3.5 – Work effectively in teams
Work effectively in teams to address biological questions.