Life Sciences

General Information

Biology is the study of life, and the study of biology aids students in gaining a deeper understanding of the living world around them. Humans are living organisms and interact with millions of other living organisms as well as non-living things. An understanding and appreciation of biology helps one to develop informed positions related to human health, the environment, and some political issues. To understand biology is to better understand ourselves.

The Department of Life Sciences conducts teaching, research, and service related to biological disciplines, serving students both within the department and various health-related disciplines and offering general education courses to students in all disciplines. Expertise in the department includes the fields of cell biology, microbiology, molecular biology, neuroscience, physiology, and other related fields.

Programs in the Department of Life Sciences prepare students for careers in the biological sciences, graduate school, and professional school. Careers in biological and biotechnological fields include research and laboratory technicians and supervisors, pharmacy technicians, biology teachers, research and development, and quality control. Opportunities in graduate school include master’s and doctoral degrees, and opportunities in professional school include medical school, pharmacy school, dental school, and physical therapy school.

Vision

The Department of Life Sciences will be a leader in discovery and dissemination of knowledge at Winston-Salem State University, preparing scientifically literate graduates enabled to pursue terminal degrees in bioscience professions, employment in the workplace, and leadership roles in a global community. Students will receive exceptional instructional support, mentoring, and advisement by working with faculty and staff that offer excellent teaching, scholarly activities, and student development services that enhance both student learning and benefit the communities the university serves.

Mission

The Department of Life Sciences’ primary mission is to execute the following functions:

to provide specialized academic instruction to students majoring in biology and biotechnology and non-majors seeking a minor degree in biological sciences;
to fulfill the university’s general education requirements in selected areas of the biological sciences;
to provide support courses that help students fulfill their degree requirements in other programs;
to pursue the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge through scholarly research in the disciplines of the department; and
to serve the community in which the university resides.

Departmental Goals

To provide courses to increase students’ understanding of the process of science, of the living world, and of the concepts and vocabulary needed for scientific literacy in biology.
To provide basic science courses for students seeking admission to allied health programs.
To provide major programs to prepare graduates in biology and biotechnology for entry into graduate schools, health related professional schools, and positions in technological and industrial firms.
To provide excellent advising and mentoring.
To provide an atmosphere and infrastructure conducive to scholarly and creative activities.
To improve teaching effectiveness.
To provide service to the University and the community.

Undergraduate Programs Offered

Major Programs

Biology

Biotechnology

Minor Programs

Biology

Biotechnology

Neuroscience (through joint agreement with Wake Forest University)