Biology Department

I: Knowledge Goals

Upon completion of a major in Biology, students will demonstrate an understanding of the following conceptual strands in Biology and related disciplines:

1. Matter and energy in organisms
   1. Structure of biological molecules
   2. Catalysis and metabolic pathways
   3. Energy conversions in organisms
2. Structure-function relationships in cells and organisms
   1. Cell structure and function
   2. Physiology of multicellular organisms
   3. Adaptations to the environment
3. Transmission of genetic information in organisms and populations
   1. Transmission genetics
   2. Molecular mechanisms of information coding, use, and transfer
   3. Population genetics
4. Evolution and the origin of organismal diversity
   1. Evidence for evolution
   2. Processes of Evolution
   3. Patterns of Evolution
   4. Diversity and classification of organisms
5. Structure and function of ecosystems
   1. Intra- and interspecific interactions
   2. Population growth
   3. Energy flow in ecosystems
   4. Matter cycling in ecosystems
6. Nature and history of scientific thought

Understanding entails the ability to explain, to apply, and to critique scientific models of biological phenomena.

II: Skill Goals

Upon completion of a major in Biology, students will demonstrate mastery of the following skills:

1. Formulation of scientific models based on observation of biological phenomena
2. Evaluation of scientific models
3. Application of quantitative methods to biological problems
4. Written, and oral, and multimedia scientific communication
5. Retrieval and evaluation of information from the scientific literature, electronic databases, and online resources
6. Use of scientific instrumentation and information technology
7. Use of basic laboratory techniques
8. Self-assessment of knowledge and learning skills

III: Dispositional Goals

Upon completion of a major in Biology, students will demonstrate that they have reflected upon:

1. Their motivation for studying biology
2. The impact of biological studies on the environment and human societies

These Learning Goals and additional useful information is also available in the Student Handbook