Why Biology at SBU

 BIOLOGY  

The objectives of the Department of Biology are to provide the  student with opportunity to obtain a broad foundation of biological knowledge and to pursue the study of a particular area of biology. The curriculum is based strongly in the sciences of biology, chemistry and physics, within the context of the critical and analytical skills derived from the liberal arts core. The specific aims of the Department of Biology are

1. to provide an intensive course of study in the biological sciences;
2. to develop in the majors an appreciation for critical scientific work;
3. to present a program of study which reflects current thinking in the rapidly expanding field of biology.

After successful completion of the program a student may enter any of several career paths. The biology curriculum prepares a student for graduate school, laboratory work and teaching. It also provides all the requirements for application to medical, dental, veterinary and other health-related programs.

 BIOCHEMISTRY  

The Department of Biology offers a program leading to the Bachelor of Science with a major in biochemistry. The biochemistry program provides students with a basic understanding of living systems which emphasizes the molecular and cellular aspects of biology. A new biotechnology lab equipped

with HPLC, ultracentrifuge, and electrophoresis equipment provides the technical component for the program and affords research opportunities for the students during their junior and senior years. The final year of study features independent laboratory research. Advances in the area of molecular biology have led to the expansion of job opportunities in the general field of biotechnology. The biochemistry program will be of special interest to students with a strong science and mathematics background who are preparing for graduate school, medical or dental school as well as law school.