Aug 22, 2025  
2025-2026 Undergraduate Academic Catalog 
    
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2025-2026 Undergraduate Academic Catalog

Biology

The Biology Department offers a full range of courses designed to introduce undergraduate students to the major areas of modern biological science. The primary goals of the department are to prepare students for advanced study and research in biology and related sciences; for postgraduate study in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and the other health professions; and for careers in education, industry, agriculture, and government service. 

Faculty

James Pesavanto, PhD, Associate Professor Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chair

Vidya Chandrasekaran, PhD, Professor Developmental Genetics, Biochemistry, Physiology

Jessica Coyle, PhD, Assistant Professor, Ecology

Keith E. Garrison, PhD, Professor Immunology, Genetics, Molecular Biology

Rebecca Jabbour, PhD, Professor Evolution, Anatomy

Khameeka Kitt-Hopper, PhD, Associate Professor Cell and Molecular Biology, Anatomy and Physiology

Michael P. Marchetti, PhD, Fletcher Jones Professor of Biology, Ecology, Conservation Biology, Invasive Species

Sonya Schuh, PhD, Associate Professor, Developmental and Reproductive Biology, Physiology, Toxicology

Gregory R. Smith, MS, Professor Anatomy, Physiology

Learning Outcomes

Students who graduate with a major in biology will be able to:

  • DEMONSTRATE a core knowledge in all three major areas of biology: molecular and cellular, organismal, and ecology and evolution.
  • ANALYZE scientific information logically and critically.
  • APPLY biological knowledge to a different context and/or exploration of new areas of inquiry.
  • COMMUNICATE biological research and/or concepts effectively in both written and oral formats.
  • USE biological techniques competently for research.
  • DISCUSS the ethical, societal, or environmental consequences of biological practices or the role of biology in addressing current ethical, societal, and environmental challenges.

Suggested Biology Major Program

A suggested four-year program of study for a major in biology is available from department faculty. Faculty advisors should be consulted on a regular basis to assist in selecting courses and arranging specific curricula relating to fulfillment of major and core curriculum requirements, as well as particular career goals and personal interests. Students may select courses of their choice for remaining electives. It is important to note that some upper-division courses are not offered every year.

Prerequisite Grade

Any course listed in this department with a prerequisite assumes a grade of C- or better in the prerequisite course.

 

Biology SSTE Credential Pathway


This major has an integrated Single Subject Teacher Education (SSTE) pathway to prepare future middle and high school classroom teachers. The integrated program of study enables students to graduate with their BAs and a CA teaching credential in 4 years. See Teacher Education: Single Subject Teacher Education Pathways   for detailed information on credential courses.

Programs

    Bachelor of ScienceBachelor of ArtsMinor

    Courses

      Biology - Lower DivisionBiology - Upper Division