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Biology

Career opportunities for those who major in biology are numerous. Besides being one of the traditional preparatory fields for those pursuing careers as health care professionals, Biology is an excellent choice of major for those interested in secondary education, ecology, or the burgeoning genetic engineering industry. And, of course, the areas of academic and industrial research are open to those who pursue a Ph.D. in the discipline.

These course requirements should be considered a minimum program in biology. Students wishing to continue their education in biology-related graduate or professional school programs will need to supplement this basic curriculum with additional course work in the natural sciences. Suggested programs are available, and Keck Science faculty should be consulted for advice at the earliest possible opportunity.

Major Requirements

Claremont McKenna College

Pitzer College

Scripps College

Keck Science Common Learning Outcomes

Students completing a major in the Keck Science Department should demonstrate the ability to:

  1. Use foundational principles to analyze problems in nature.
  2. Develop hypotheses and test them using quantitative techniques.
  3. Articulate applications of science in the modern world.
  4. Effectively communicate scientific concepts both verbally and in writing.

Student Learning Outcomes

The biology major aims to provide students with skills and knowledge to effectively engage and evaluate biological issues and innovations in the wider world, and to prepare them as leaders in research, biotechnology, and health-related career fields.

A Biology major should be able to:

  • Understand foundational scientific principles and findings in the student’s major field of biology.
  • Develop critical thinking and analytical skills by developing specific hypotheses and designing controlled experiments to test those hypotheses.
  • Read, understand and critique original research articles.