Biology Department Home page

Department Chair: Dr. Andy Gannon

Biology, the study of life, from molecules to ecosystems, is one of the most interesting and important areas of modern scientific inquiry, with profound implications for society. Breakthroughs in basic research in biology are leading to practical applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental management. The Biology faculty of Birmingham Southern College offers its students the opportunity to participate in the excitement of biology as part of a learning community of faculty and students, through investigative study in the classroom, laboratory, field, and library; through collaborative undergraduate research projects; and, through formal and informal consultation, advising, and discussions. By participating in these activities, students actively learn both the process and content of modern biological science.

The introductory three-course sequence of the biology major introduces students to some of the major concepts and approaches of biology: genetics, evolution, ecology; biological organization and diversity, comparative structure-function relationships; cell structure and function, energetics and metabolism, gene structure, and expression. An upper level genetics course is required and emphasizes the centrality of this area to all of biology. Other upper level elective courses allow students to investigate more thoroughly what interests them most among the many facets of biological science. The biology major culminates in a capstone experience, which involves two terms of directed research and the presentation of this research at a Senior Conference. Our goal is to allow biology students to become biological scientists while attending BSC.

In addition to preparation for medical and dental schools, a biology major at Birmingham-Southern College also provides pre-professional training for students interested in various paramedical fields (e.g. physical therapy, and medical or surgical assistant's programs). A biology major will also prepare students for additional coursework and research in graduate school in areas as diverse as molecular biology, physiology, environmental studies, and conservation biology. Biology majors may enter public school teaching with the appropriate courses in education for certification. Immediate employment opportunities are available in academic and industrial laboratories.

An interdisciplinary major in biology and psychology is available as are pre-professional programs in biology/environmental studies, biology/pre-nursing, and biology-psychology/pre-nursing. Courses in biology can be combined with courses in other disciplines for an interdisciplinary or individualized major to meet special career goals.

For more information, including a course listing, please visit the Disciplinary Major/Minor section of the most recent issue of the Birmingham-Southern College Catalog.