Biology

Overview & Highlights: 

Biology at Fresno Pacific University ranges from the biochemical analysis of cells to the study of global ecosystems. It happens on campus in the teaching and research laboratories of AIMS Hall, it extends to the local community as part of internships in agriculture and medicine and it journeys to the mountains, coasts and deserts of California during field studies.

The biology program prepares students for the rigorous intellectual challenges of careers as diverse as medicine, teaching and scientific research. At Fresno Pacific, we also challenge the hearts of our students to live lives of service in a world of tremendous needs.

What can I do with this degree? (Our Graduates): 

Recent biology graduates have been accepted into medical schools, veterinary medical schools and physician assistant programs. Others have entered into doctoral studies in cell biology and microbiology. Recent graduates are currently employed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Department of Fish & Game, working in national parks and teaching environmental education. The demand for secondary science teachers continues to be very strong.

Degrees & Emphases - What are the options with this major?: 

The biology program offers both the bachelor of arts (B.A.) and bachelor of science (B.S.) degrees.

The B.A. degree program requires a minimum of 60 units of science and mathematics. The flexible nature of the B.A. program allows students to tailor their study toward specific interests in biology, incorporate a minor in a different field or include a semester abroad into their undergraduate experience. B.A. students may emphasize:

The B.S. degree program encompasses 70 units of biology, mathematics, chemistry and physics. A senior research project provides a capstone to the major. B.S. students may emphasize:

Unique Features - What makes this major different?: 

AIMS Hall houses excellent laboratory, computer and lecture spaces. Recent grants provide undergraduate students opportunities to work with DNA sequencing and analysis technology. Local medical, agricultural and environmental organizations provide our students with hands-on experience related to diverse career paths. Fresno’s unique location in Central California allows access to a great variety of natural habitats for study.

Understanding the interaction of science, ethics and religious faith is central to our program. Two of our faculty have been awarded Templeton Foundation awards for courses integrating science and religion. Courses in the philosophy of science and bio-ethics challenge our students to be more than competent scientists, but to exemplify the FPU values of wisdom, faithfulness and service.
About Our Faculty: 

All permanent biology faculty members hold Ph.D. degrees in a field of biological science. Their alma maters include UCLA, UC Davis, Harvard University, Cornell University and Bryn Mawr College.

In addition to strong academic training, biology faculty have the experiences needed to bring rich insights into the learning environment. They have taught and researched overseas and engaged in graduate theological studies.

Each faculty member has chosen to teach at Fresno Pacific University because it provides a unique opportunity to challenge undergraduate students academically, encourage them spiritually and guide them in their career and life journeys.

preparation: 

High school preparation should include courses in chemistry, biology and advanced mathematics. Community college transfer students should have completed college coursework in (1) pre-calculus or calculus, (2) a year of general chemistry and (3) a year of general biology or two semesters of other biology courses.

 
 
 
 
Tuition & Fees