Biology
Biology majors investigate the interconnected processes that shape the living world. Since the life sciences are increasingly interdisciplinary, Biology majors choose a wide range of courses in cell and molecular biology; microbiology and virology; anatomy and physiology; neurobiology and developmental biology; and animal behavior and ecology.
Degree Requirements
By the time a student has completed a major in Biology or Marine Biology, s/he is expected to be able to demonstrate the following competencies:
- formulate a scientific question or problem
- design a properly controlled experiment or field study that tests a clearly-stated hypothesis
- evaluate evidence critically and quantitatively, and apply this knowledge to novel situations.
- effectively communicate scientific knowledge orally, graphically, and in writing
- conduct a search of peer-reviewed print and electronic resources relevant to a research project in the life sciences
- understand the role of macromolecules in cellular processes
- understand the relationship between the structure and function of cellular components
- understand the relationship between the structure and function of major organ systems
- understand the mechanisms of physiological homeostasis
- describe cellular and physiological adaptations that have evolved in a variety of phyla
- understand the key discoveries of modern biology (including molecular biology and bioinformatics)
- understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of inheritance
- understand the species concept and the factors affecting biodiversity
- describe the patterns and mechanisms of evolution
- understand how phylogenetic relationships among taxa are determined
- describe the patterns and mechanisms of population distribution, growth and regulation
- understand the flow of matter and energy through natural systems from the molecular to the ecosystem level
- describe interactions among biotic and abiotic factors in natural systems
- understand the life history strategies of organisms
- describe the major global biological communities and biomes
- understand significant interactions and dependencies between human and natural systems
Meaningful Research
Mary Yurkevicius, RWU Class of 2017At RWU, students are given opportunities to translate their education into meaningful research that can benefit the community. Mary Yurkevicius has been researching health benefits of various fish species in the Narragansett Bay for the past four years.
Read full storyResearch Opportunities
Undergraduate research is integrated into the Biology curriculum, with opportunities for students to earn academic credit for doing research, to develop proposals and compete for small grants to fund their projects, and to present their findings at regional, national and international conferences. Current projects in the Biology department address questions of evolutionary biology, molecular biology of aging and the design of antimicrobial drugs.
RISE STEM Scholarship at RWU
RWU offers a scholarship opportunity for students interested in majoring in math, sciences, engineering, computer science or forensic science. Learn about the National Science Foundation RISE Scholars program, which recognizes, supports and empowers a group of academically talented students with financial need as they prepare to enter Research and Industry in Science and Engineering (RISE).
Learn About Health Professions Advising
Are you interested in a career in the health professions and want more information on developing your studies toward professional preparation? Visit Health Professions Advising for resources on how you can explore your options for health professions pathways.