120 Credits Required
The Bachelor of Science in Biology degree prepares students for cutting-edge careers as well as advanced study in forensic, agricultural, pharmaceutical, governmental, clinical, and academic settings. Small class sizes and hands-on laboratory experiences make the biology program at Neumann University unique. In this major, students can choose from one of the following areas of study, each of which is designed as a preparation for exciting career options in the life sciences that are most compatible with their interests and career goals.
The focus of the B.S. in Biology is on the study of a wide range of topics in Biology, from Microbiology and Immunology to Ecology and Genetics. Students are introduced to a rigorous course of study that prepares them for careers in medical, clinical, and pharmaceutical laboratories, as well as opportunities for graduate study in research, forensics, and medicine. Students are offered challenging biology courses that prepare them intellectually for careers in general biological fields, forensic science, and biotechnology. All students in the Biology Program are required to participate in off-campus research or applied science through the University’s Office of Career and Professional Development.
Mission
In accordance with the Mission Statement of Neumann University and that of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, the purpose of the Biology Program is to provide excellent undergraduate professional education in general biology that is founded on the core values of St. Francis of Assisi. By linking Franciscan values and tradition with a strong liberal arts and professional education, graduates of Neumann University’s Biology Program will have the knowledge and skills that are required for competent professional practice; for lifelong development of that practice; for advanced study in biology, medical lab science (MLS), or education; and for fulfillment of professional and social responsibility.
Accreditation
Neumann University’s B.S. in Biology, Medical Laboratory Science option is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont IL 60018; Telephone: 773-714-8880; Fax: 773-714-8886; or www.naacls.org.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the Biology Program, a graduate will earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and will be proficient in the following entry level competencies to:
- Apply key concepts of biological and natural sciences.
- Perform a range of laboratory procedures that includes various forms of technological.
- Evaluate the processes of science including using the scientific method, conducting literature searches, and writing reviews on scientific topics.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills in both written and oral formats.
- Evaluate scientific problems using critical thinking skills related to the life sciences.
- Synthesize professional and ethical standards required of scientists including exploration of career opportunities.
Admissions Requirements
- For the Bachelor of Science in Biology incoming first year students must have an overall high school GPA of 2.4 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Have a cumulative High School science GPA of 2.5 or higher and completed both Biology and Chemistry in High School with a “C” or better.
- If Chemistry was not taken, then the Math GPA will be used in place of the requirement.
- Have completed Algebra II with a grade of a “C” or better. If Algebra II was not completed, then the student is required to take both MATH103 College Algebra at the same time as CHEM107/117 General Chemistry I w/lab.
Progression in the Biology major leading to a Bachelor of Science in Biology1:
- Complete two semesters of 100-level general biology lecture/lab with a minimum GPA of 2.0, with no more than 3 credits of “C-” for the final course grade.
- Complete two semesters of 100-level general chemistry lecture/lab with a minimum GPA of 2.0, with no more than 3 credits of “C-” for the final course grade.
- Complete two semesters of 100-level physics lecture/lab with a minimum GPA of 2.0, with no more than 3 credits of “C-” for the final course grade.
- Complete all required math courses with a “C,” GPA of 2.0, or better.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 in all required Science courses and an overall GPA of a 2.0.
- Complete all 200-level biology or chemistry courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0 with no more than 4 credits of a “C-.”
- Courses may be repeated only one time, whether the repetition is a consequence of student withdrawal from a course, institutional withdrawal from a course, or those who fail to earn a passing grade lecture or lab (as described above).
- If a course is repeated more than one time, please refer to the “Repeated Courses” policy in the Academic Regulations and Standards section of this catalog for additional information.
- Internship Requirement - Students within the Biology program are required to obtain an internship at an off-campus setting through the Center for Career and Professional Development at Neumann.
Students who do not meet these requirements will be dismissed from the B.S. in Biology degree may still qualify for the B.A. in Biology and will have to meet with the Associate Dean of Sciences before the start of the next semester to discuss options within the major. A student may apply for an exemption to policy and must contact the Associate Dean before the start of the next semester.
Complete a minimum of 120 credits for the B.S. in Biology.
1Please note the required number of credits and courses for the B.S. in Biology and all other options are not the same. Please refer to the University Course Catalog for the requirements for options within the major for more information.