Biotechnology Major, BS

Degree requirements: BIO 1401  (Principles of Biology) and BIO 2410  Zoology are the prerequisites to all biology courses above the freshman level. Potential majors must have earned a C or better in both BIO 1401 and BIO 2410. They should submit the required formal application to the department during the second semester of their sophomore year. Students accepted into the major program must complete a minimum of 25 semester hours in biology and then they are to submit the required formal application to the Department. To satisfy the major requirement, a grade of C or better must be earned in each biology and chemistry course taken. A minimum overall grade point average of 2.5 is required to earn an undergraduate degree in biology, biotechnology, and molecular biology. Non-biology requirements for the three major options are one year of the following: general chemistry, organic chemistry, general physics, and calculus (MAT 1313  and MAT 2317 ). There is a foreign language requirement that can be met by successfully completing the Spanish or French language courses at the intermediate level (SPA 2311  and SPA 2312  or FRE 2311  and FRE 2312  ) or Yoruba (FLS 3401  or FLS 3402 ). Majors must complete a minor program in a discipline that differs from biology.

The B. S. in Biotechnology will provide detailed training in recombinant gene expression, proteomics, receptor-based assays, bio- analysis, molecular modeling, and federal regulations. The biotechnology degree program is built upon the success of WSSU in establishing one of the first B. S. degree programs in molecular biology in North Carolina.

Outcomes

Students should be able to demonstrate:

1. Understanding of basic biological principles and the diversity of life.
2. Knowledge of specialized areas of biology.
3. Knowledge of technical skills needed to conduct biological research.
4. Ability to read scientific texts and literature with comprehension.
5. Critical thinking skills.
6. Basic computer literacy.