Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Biology is two-fold: first, we are committed to educate students in the principle tenets of biology through structured inquiry and opportunities for individualized experiential learning. Second, we are committed to teaching ethical behavior in experimental design and practice to all of our students. The department strives to provide the best educational opportunities possible for students to attain their academic goals and to facilitate faculty in scholarship in an atmosphere that encourages free exchange of ideas.

Our Philosophy and Values

The Department of Biology believes that students and faculty have a shared responsibility to obtain knowledge. Faculty should maintain their expertise by ongoing investigation, presentation, and pursuit of scholarly activities. In addition to the pursuit of scholarly information in biology, students should develop skills in communication, analysis, and critical thinking relevant to biology and other disciplines.

Goals

The Department of Biology recognizes excellent student education as its first priority. In addition to formal programs of study, we offer opportunities for research, service, field and laboratory activities, and secondary education training.

The UVU Biology program offers a variety of courses that investigate the living world, including courses in biology, botany, ecology, genetics, human physiology, microbiology, and zoology. A course of study may be designed to provide breadth in the life sciences or emphasize field or laboratory oriented biology.

Career Opportunities

Majors in Biology prepare for a wide variety of occupations in education, government, medicine, and research. Students majoring in a UVU Bachelor’s program should meet with the Biology Department advisor early in their program.

Job Outlook

Graduates with degrees in Biology are especially in demand in the secondary education, health, natural resource management, and biotechnology areas.

Programs

Eight degree options are available: Associate in Science or Associate in Arts with a pre-major in Biology; Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies (IS) with a Biology emphasis, Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, Bachelor of Science in Biology Education, and Bachelor of Science in Botany. A minor in biology is available for those in other baccalaureate programs.

All AS/AA and BS Biology, Botany, and IS majors must consult with the Biology Department advisor prior to their first semester of enrollment at UVU or immediately upon changing to one of these majors to formulate a plan of study. BS in Biotechnology majors consult with the Biotechnology advisor. BS in Biology Education majors consult with Biology Secondary Education advisor. BS in Integrated Studies must also consult with the Integrated Studies advisor.

Students interested in a career in biology or related field are encouraged to earn at least a baccalaureate degree (BS). Many professions (e.g., pharmacy, medicine) require additional post-baccalaureate education. The UVU AS/AA degree is intended for students who plan to use it as a first step toward a baccalaureate degree. The AS/AA degree may be granted to those who do not continue in a bachelor’s program and meet the minimum requirements. The Departmental Bachelor of Science Degrees may be used for entry into a career or in preparation for post-baccalaureate (for masters and doctoral degrees) or professional education (e.g., medical, dental) education. A Bachelor of Science Degree in Integrated Studies, Biology emphasis is available. Please see Biology advisors for more information.