Department of Biological Sciences

The department of biological sciences offers general education curriculum courses in the biological sciences and appropriate undergraduate-level training for students planning careers in biological science and health-related science. Students majoring in biological science will acquire a broad knowledge of the general principles of biological science including the interrelationships of living organisms within the biosphere and the ways human populations impact these relationships. In the laboratories, students develop skills in the use of the techniques and instrumentation used in modern biological science. These experiences provide optimum preparation for graduate study or careers as a professional biologist.

The Bachelor of Science in Biology is offered with concentrations in environmental biology and microbiology. The department also provides academic advising and training for students seeking admission to a graduate program or to health-related programs such as medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, and pharmacy. Students interested in pursuing a ‘pre-professional’ course of study within the biology degree should contact the department for details.

Gulf Coast Research Laboratory Program

William Carey University is affiliated with the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. The GCRL is a component of The University of Southern Mississippi Institute of Marine Sciences. The 50-acre site in Ocean Springs is adjacent to the Mississippi Sound and is surrounded by bayous and salt marshes that provide a natural laboratory for researchers and students. The GCRL focuses on marine research in the disciplinary areas of biology, chemistry, geology, and physics of coastal and continental shelf waters. Research emphasis areas include marine aquaculture, aquatic animal health, aquatic biodiversity and systematics, coastal ecology, fate and effects of environmental pollutants, and fisheries sciences.

The GCRL offers undergraduate summer courses in two 5-week terms, which may be taken by William Carey University students for academic credit. Students may enroll in only one course each term but may earn up to twelve credit hours during the summer. Interested students can obtain more information and application forms from their academic advisor or from the GCRL website at http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program of study, graduates will be able to demonstrate:

proficiency in giving scientific presentations and performing laboratory experiments;
knowledge and mastery of fundamental biological concepts;
the use of proper techniques and instrumentation used in modern biological science; and
mastery in understanding the interrelationships of living organisms within the biosphere and the ways human populations impact these relationships.

Programs

Major

Minor

Biology Minor (18 hrs)