Biology Department
Programs & Degrees
The study of biology at Georgia Southwestern State University is
intended to provide the student with a broad base in biological
science rather than specialized expertise in one narrow discipline.
It is possible to direct one's study toward an interest in some area
such as botany, zoology, environment, or physiology. Study of
biology not only provides the student with basic knowledge but also
teaches scientific methodology that aids the thinking process of any
professional activity. The insights developed through this study
successfully prepare the student to enter many fields of employment
in addition to traditional biology. The appreciation of the life
sciences in general and the application of the usefulness of such
study are the main objectives of this Department.
The biology major prepares the student for advanced study, as well
as for employment in a biology related field, upon graduation. The
student wishing to conclude formal education with the bachelor's
degree in biology may find a career with State or Federal governments
in health, natural resources and environment, agriculture, or
education. Opportunities in the private sector exist in the food and
beverage industry, health and pharmaceutical industry, environmental
firms, nuclear power plants, and agricultural industry.
The student who wishes to continue study beyond the undergraduate
degree may do so in graduate schools or in health professional schools
such as medicine, dentistry, or related areas. The biology major is an
ideal path for the pre-veterinary medicine student. Many opportunities
exist for qualified graduates to undertake graduate level study in the
biological sciences.
To earn a minor in biology, the student should complete 18 hours of
upper division biology. Biology 2108 is prerequisite to upper division
biology courses; however, in the case of a minor, Biology 2030 and
2040 (Anatomy and Physiology I & II) may be used as prerequisites.
Biochemistry (CHEM 4410 plus CHEM 4410L) may be substituted for one of
the biology courses.
It is important that students wishing to be admitted to
professional programs know that these programs may include courses in
addition to those required for graduation with BS degree. It is most
important that these students confer with their advisor.
Examples of course sequences
Professional and Allied Health Care Programs
Students wishing to enter one of the various health care
professions, other than nursing or pharmacy, may meet the entrance
requirements through the Department of Biology. Pre-Medical,
Pre-Dentistry, and Pre-Veterinary Medicine students often follow the
B.S. in biology program selecting courses to meet entrance
requirements. Students interested in allied health programs may choose
to meet entrance requirements by proper course selection under
guidance from a departmental advisor. Students must meet the
competitive requirements determined by the professional institutions
for admission to the programs.
Allied health programs include, but are not limited to, the
following: physical therapy, medical technology, physician assistant,
and occupational therapy. Students desiring to enter one of these
professions should become aware of necessary program admissions
requirements through discussions with the allied health advisor on
campus and by contacting the professional schools offering the
programs. The student must gain admission to the professional program.
Therefore, the student needs to work to be competitive and meet
admissions requirements. University System of Georgia units offering
programs in the allied health sciences include the Medical College of
Georgia, Georgia State University, Armstrong Atlantic State
University, Columbus State University, and North Georgia College and
State University.
Contact us at: Georgia Southwestern State
University 229-931-2135 Fax: 229:931:2734
Department Email
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