Undergraduate Programs
Biology encompasses the study of all organisms, and our curriculum provides students a sound knowledge base in:
- cellular and molecular biology;
- organismal biology; and
- evolutionary biology, ecology, and diversity.
Through coursework and mentored student research, the faculty emphasize the importance of evolution in biological phenomena, the role of the environment in biological interactions, and ethical behavior in scientific endeavors. These experiences:
- promote strong critical thinking and analytical skills;
- develop strong writing skills;
- provide hands-on experience in biological techniques; and
- promote creative scientific thought.
The academic programs in Biology prepare students for graduate and professional school, as well as careers in the public and private sectors. Mentoring through academic advising, research, and internship opportunities prepare our students for future scholarship and social and civic involvement.
Major courses of study:
The department is excited to offer three majors: Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, and Environmental Science. These majors share a common first year of course work. In addition, a number of interdisciplinary concentrations are available in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, Environmental Studies, and Neuroscience. Follow the links below to learn more about the majors and concentrations and their associated courses. Students must achieve a minimum 2.5 GPA in BL 155-160 to be considered for formal acceptance into the Biology or Environmental Science majors, or a 2.5 GPA in BL 155-158 and BL 213 for formal acceptance into the Cell and Molecular Biology major.
 Biology
The Biology major is broad in focus, providing students with a strong knowledge base in all three core areas of biology: (1) cellular and molecular biology; (2) organismal biology; and (3) evolutionary biology, ecology, and diversity.
Contact: Dr. Jeff Johansen (johansen@jcu.edu)
Requirements for B.S. in Biology
 Cell and Molecular Biology
The Cell and Molecule Biology major builds upon current strengths in both the Biology and Chemistry Departments, with emphases in genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and mathematics. Additionally, there is a strong focus on helping students develop laboratory skills required for basic and applied research.
Contacts: Dr. Jim Lissemore (jlissemore@jcu.edu) and Dr. Mike Martin (mmartin@jcu.edu)
Requirements for B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology
 Environmental Science
Through the Biology Department's new major in Environmental Science, students will gain a solid foundation in the science and theory behind how pressing environmental issues affect natural systems. The program encourages students to be advocates for environmental issues and enter values-based careers, working towards improving environmental conditions world-wide and respecting life through biodiversity preservation.
The Environmental Science major builds upon current strengths in the Biology Department, with emphases in field biology and ecology and organismal biology, as well as chemistry, earth science, mathematics, and social science.
Contacts: Dr. Carl Anthony (canthony@jcu.edu) and Dr. Rebecca Drenovsky (rdrenovsky@jcu.edu)
Requirements for B.S. in Environmental Science
Grade Policy for Students in All Biology Majors
A grade of C- or higher must be earned in courses required for each major. A grade lower than C- requires that the course be repeated. In the case of an elective course for a major in which a grade below C- was earned, the student may petition to take an alternative course. (Effective with the Fall 2011 semester, this policy applies to all students in biology major courses, whether they have declared or not yet declared a biology major. Courses in which a grade lower than C- was earned prior to Fall 2011 do not have to be retaken.)
A GPA of at least 2.0 must be earned in courses required for each major.
A GPA of at least 2.0 must be earned in support courses required for each major. (This policy applies to first-year and transfer students matriculating to John Carroll University in Fall 2011 or later.)
Interdisciplinary Minors and Concentrations
Biology majors may elect interdisciplinary concentrations or minors in areas such as neuroscience, environmental studies, or population and public health.
Undergraduate Course Descriptions
Biology majors can choose from over 50 lecture and laboratory courses in areas including cellular and molecular biology; organismal biology; and evolutionary biology, ecology, and diversity. |
