Biology Major
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The biology major is designed to offer students a science-intensive course of study necessary for graduate studies in medicine and other health related fields. The curriculum offers students a solid grounding in biological and physical sciences, as well as opportunities for research and independent study. Students have the opportunity to work one-on-one with professors specializing in the fields of: biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, anatomy and physiology, endocrinology, cell biology, genetics, physics, and astronomy.
The mission of the Nova Southeastern University biology major is to provide students with a solid educational background in the sciences and humanities. This strong foundation in biological and physical sciences is designed to prepare the student for graduate work in health professions and natural sciences.
Description
The biology major, with a premedical emphasis, provides a strong curriculum in biology with significant study
in the physical sciences. This major can provide the basis for graduate study in specialized fields of biology,
for professional training in medical fields, and for teaching. Professional careers in the medical fields
and in biology involve graduate study beyond the baccalaureate degree; therefore, both the core and the
major have been designed to meet the admission requirements of many medical, dental, pharmacy, optometry,
allied health, and veterinary schools, and of schools for graduate study in the biological sciences. Dual
admission and combined programs with the Nova Southeastern University Health Professions Division are available
for select, qualified students. Information on these programs can be obtained from the Office of Admissions.
Biology Specializations
Biology specializations are for students who require specific prerequisites for professional schools
in the health professions. To earn a specialization, a student must achieve a C or higher in all coursework
in that specialization. Requirements may vary and specific graduate programs may require additional courses
in writing, math, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities. Students should consult with specific
graduate schools to be sure that they meet the requirements.
The biology (premedical) major is offered during the day on NSU’s main campus.
Learning Outcomes
A successful biology graduate is expected to:
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of the scientific method;
- Demonstrate essential knowledge of biological sciences;
- Demonstrate essential knowledge of physical sciences as they relate to the biological sciences;
- Use mathematics to solve scientific problems and evaluate research data;
- Demonstrate the ability to use standard laboratory and research techniques to collect and assess data;
- Demonstrate an ability to synthesize and integrate biological principles with contemporary issues.
Dual Admissions Option
Please refer to the Dual Admissions Web site for additional information.
- Audiology
- Dental Medicine
- Occupational Therapy
- Optometry
- Osteopathic Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Physical Therapy
- Physician Assistant
Career Opportunities
While many students enter the biology major focused on pursuing one of many possible health professions, career options for biology majors are available in a wide variety of industries and professions. In addition to the health professions, biology majors may find their future goals fulfilled by other opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. The addition of a minor course of study may dramatically expand career choices available to graduates. Some possible career opportunities are, but are not limited to:
- Secondary Schools
Public and private secondary schools are suffering from a critical shortage of science teachers. Alternative certification is available for graduates in the sciences. Nova Southeastern University offers an education minor (18 credits) for those students interested in teaching at the secondary school level. - Colleges and Universities
Students interested in teaching at a college level are well prepared for graduate work in science and education. Graduates will be prepared for work in university research laboratories. - Professions
Graduates in biology have chosen:
- to pursue careers in the medical professions.
- to attend law school where they specialize in medical and environmental law.
- to pursue graduate studies in psychology, business, marketing, and computer sciences.
- Industry
Many biotechnology firms, pharmaceutical firms, and environmental consulting firms seek management, sales, and field personnel trained in scientific methodology and scientific writing. - Research
Nova Southeastern University graduates have gone into research careers with the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health, National Marine Fisheries Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
