Mission Statement
The program in Biology is centered in the study of life within the context of a distinctly Seventh-day Adventist Christian world view. Perception of the Creator through His creation, the ethical use of individual gifts in caring for creation and personal balance through self understanding are encouraged.
Accordingly, students in Biology are challenged through thoughtful, inquisitive study
- to understand life's basic processes through scholarship and research
- to understand their place in the scheme of creation
- to grow in analytical and creative abilities
- to prepare for skilled, productive service in biological, medical and related disciplines
- to find through Spirit-centered study and service, greater personal integrity and a strengthened faith commitment.
Profile of Graduates
The goals stated above in our departmental mission lead to the following desired profile of our graduating seniors. They will:
- understand life's basic processes
- understand their place in the scheme of creation
- have analytical and creative abilities
- be successful in entering and serving in biological, medical and related disciplines
- have found greater personal integrity and a strengthened faith commitment
Steps toward accomplishing the Biology Department's mission
- Develop the highest quality teaching that fosters creative, problem-based learning.
- Feature "hands on", individualized (as far as possible), creative learning experiences in the laboratories associated with all Biology classes.
- Use modern technologies that encourage collection, analysis and presentation of quantitative data as part of the laboratory and classroom experiences of each major.
- Provide as many majors as possible (within the limits of faculty time and budgetary restraints) with opportunities to collaborate with faculty mentors on research projects that will lead to publication in the professional literature and/or presentations at appropriate professional meetings.
- Strengthen the Biology major's understanding of and faith in the Creator's roles in the natural world and in their day-to-day practice of ethical, service-based, Christianity.