Faculty
Degrees
To earn a degree, students must complete the curriculum and meet other requirements for a degree listed in the academic policy section of this catalog.
Programs
Introduction
The Department of Natural Sciences includes biological, ecological, and agricultural sciences. The scientific study of the diversity of organisms, including microbes, plants, animals, and humans and the interrelationships among these provide abundant opportunities for scientific careers in research, human health, animal health and production, environmental health and management, and science education. The department bases its approach to the study of science on the biblical view that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe. Students taking courses in the department are introduced to major concepts of biology, ecology, and agriculture such that they can discover and interpret the characteristics of nature as part of the creation of God. Students learn that science is not merely a collection of facts to be memorized, but a process by which to understand the world. Students are equipped to be successful with the skills of careful observation, critical thinking, careful investigation, and effective communication. Major emphases include:
Animal Science and Pre-Veterinary Medicine
The pre-veterinary science degree equips students for a career in veterinary medicine with specialized training in animal physiology and reproduction, as well as research procedures and techniques.
Health Professions
The department offers information-intensive, research-supplemented, and service-oriented programs to prepare students for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant, veterinary medicine, and the allied health sciences such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, optometry, and chiropractic science. Students majoring in pre-medicine and pre-dentistry will seek the Bachelor of Science in Biology, while students majoring in pre-pharmacy, pre-PA, or any of the allied health sciences will pursue the Bachelor of Arts in Biology.
Natural Resource Ecology and Conservation
The degree in Natural Resources Ecology and Conservation provides students with a broad background in natural resources management and conservation with specific emphasis in ecology, wildlife and fisheries management, conservation biology, and environmental science. Students completing this program will be prepared for graduate education or for employment with governmental and private agencies that are directly involved in managing our natural resources. Examples of employment include Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and private environmental consulting.
Science Education
Science content courses are taken by students preparing to teach biological sciences at the primary and secondary levels. Students seeking a degree in science education through the school of education must complete a designated block of science courses and demonstrate competency in science pedagogy.
Undergraduate Research
Field research projects and research in the biotechnology and microbiology labs prepare graduates of the department to enter graduate research programs. Research projects within the department and the biochemistry research lab provide opportunities for student involvement in research and to gain experience in multiple laboratory techniques and procedures.
Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with Pre-Veterinary Emphasis
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Ecology and Conservation
Bachelor of Arts in Biology
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Pre-Health Professions
Enroll in Bachelor of Arts in Biology curriculum.
Pre-Dental
Enroll in Bachelor of Science in Biology curriculum.
Pre-Medical
Enroll in Bachelor of Science in Biology or Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry curriculum.
Minor in Agriculture Business
Minor available in Agriculture Business. See advisor for details.
Minor in Biology
(19-20 hours)