|
THE MAJOR
The Biology
major is a department within the College
of Science & Mathematics.
JMU Concentrations:
Ecology & Environmental Biology and Forestry (Dual Degree Program)
Admission and Progression Standards for this major:
Click on the link to learn more about the admission and progression standards of this major: http://www.jmu.edu/advising/snapshots/SSBIO.shtml
Description of Major:
Biology is offered as a major and minor at JMU. The
Department of Biology prepares our majors in attaining their post-graduate goals by developing subject matter competency within
the context of a liberal arts education. Specifically,
the department seeks to: 1) provide a broad conceptual background
in all areas of biological science, followed by individualized specialization in areas of career and academic interest; 2) reveal biology as a dynamic science involving divergent
concepts, imagining, and explorations based on the
scientific method; 3) develop an integrated understanding of the discipline and its relationship to technology and society; 4) develop within students an appreciation of life including the formation of a bond between themselves and their environment; and 5) emphasize the development skills necessary for long term success, including problem solving/critical thinking, writing, and oral communication. In addition to the concentrations mentioned
above, the Biology Department also offers minors in
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Human Science.
Tell me more about this field
of study.
Training in Biology prepares an individual for a very
large number of occupations. Consider the following,
which represent less than 10% of the identified occupational
categories related to life science: agronomy, biophysics,
developmental biology, environmental law, forensic entomology,
forestry, genetic counseling, immunology, medical practice,
molecular biology, neurobiology, secondary school teaching,
and veterinary medicine. Some of these deal exclusively
with molecules and cells, others concern entire ecosystems;
some involve daily interaction with dozens or hundreds
of people, others can be done in complete isolation;
some are narrowly specific, others require knowledge
far beyond science. Studies in the Biology program,
develop a broad conceptual background in the basic
principles governing living systems and develops in
one, an appreciation of life in its myriad forms. There
are many opportunities to engage in critical thinking
about biological problems using both descriptive and
quantitative methods. The knowledge gained will enhance
decision-making skills essential today and for the future
in solving societal problems. Students learn to master
scientific principles and theories, and improve their
observational abilities.
Tell me more about specializations
in this major.
A major in Biology is much more than a single scientific
area of study. This program includes a variety of areas in which to specialize. Examples of activities performed
within these areas include: the use of recombinant
DNA and monoclonal antibody techniques, somatic cell
genetics and plant tissue culture, plant floristics
of mid-Appalachian regions, ecology and environmental biology, laboratory testing of blood
and other bodily fluids for various diseases, community
and ecosystems studies, studies of fungi, plant molecular
biology, muscle development, molecular evolution and
environmental toxicology. Opportunities include working
at the bench in a laboratory or working outdoors in
field biology, or a combination of these. JMU also partners with Virginia Tech to
offer a dual degree program making it possible for a
student to earn a BS degree in Biology from JMU and
a Master of Forestry degree from Virginia Tech in five
years. Requirements for a B.A. degree can be met by
adding the completion of an intermediate level foreign
language and three credit hours in philosophy.
What common major or minor
combinations from other departments complement this
major?
The most common is perhaps a minor in Chemistry or Biochemistry. Other
combinations could include: Anthropology, Art, Environmental
Management, Geology, Geographic Sciences, Health Sciences,
Historical Archaeology, Integrated Science and Technology,
Justice Studies, Kinesiology, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Statistics, or Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication. Many students also participate in Pre-Professional Health Preparations including Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Medicine, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Optometry, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Physician Assistant, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Veterinary Medicine.
CHARACTERISTICS OF SUCCESSFUL
STUDENTS
Those students who show good motivation to learn in
regular classes, who talk with their advisor and choose
appropriate course work to develop a meaningful program
of study, those who show ability in doing precision
work, who work well under pressure, who are naturally
curious, and those who devote a portion of their curriculum
to serious research. In addition, flexibility appears
to be a key trait for anyone entering the job market
in the future. While the educational requirements for
most fields of biology and medicine tend toward specialization,
the actual jobs developing for the 21st century place
a premium on adapting to change, moving into new settings,
and combining diverse areas. For instance, a typical
research project in the pharmaceutical industry lasts
only a few years, after which a scientist might be asked
to tackle an entirely different project. Or consider
the biotechnology industry, where many research scientists
find themselves moving into management positions and
working with such topics as patent law and marketing.
CAREERS
Many graduates choose typical career paths associated
with this major. However, some graduates choose nontraditional career fields that utilize skills and experiences developed
during their years in college. Keep in mind, that some
fields will require graduate study or further training.
The listing below offers examples of possible career
paths and is not meant to be comprehensive.
|
