In Biology at Pitt State, you may study from in variety of areas including health and laboratory sciences, field biology and environment, plant sciences, and secondary education.
The Department offers four bachelors-level degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Biology
- Bachelor of Arts in Biology
- Bachelor of Science in Education in Biology
- for a description of Biology course offerings and a detailed listing of required courses for each emphasis Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology
For a description of Biology course offerings and a detailed listing of required courses for each emphasis, see the University Catalog.
SUPPOSE YOU'RE NOT SURE ABOUT A SPECIFIC FIELD OF STUDY?
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Some students do not select particular emphasis areas during their program of study or can not decide as freshmen.
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One advantage of an undergraduate biology education here at Pittsburg State University is the flexibility that the curriculum provides to the student. Students without a specific subject matter emphasis can move into graduate schools or employment with business or industry.
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Your interests will probably be one of several areas including: allied health, ecology, genetics, microbiology, and so on. Our programs are briefly described below. Perhaps a more intensive search of career options will help refine your career goals. Visit the Biology Career web page for more information.
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Look for a faculty member with the kinds of interests you may share to serve as an advisor. If one area doesn't work out, try another.
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See the University 2007-2009 Catalog for a description of Biology course offerings and a detailed listing of required courses for each emphasis. Always consult with your academic advisor and always be sure you are using the correct catalog year. The PSU Registrar maintains copies of catalogs here.
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Want to visit? Make arrangements with the Biology Office or visit the PSU Office of Admissions web site for more information.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF AREAS OF STUDY
Health and Laboratory Sciences
You can pursue interests in:
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pre-medicine: preparation for entry into to medical schools (medical, osteopathic medicine, and dental schools), or graduate medical research programs
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Note: The department also offers pre-professional work in optometry and veterinary medicine. Consult the department chairperson for details on these programs.
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pre-physical therapy: preparation for entry into further specialization in physical and occupational therapy
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cell and molecular biology: prepare for graduate school or entry-level employment in biotechnology
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medical technology: prepare for employment in hospitals or private labs
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plant physiology/plant molecular biology: prepare for careers in industry or for graduate research
The Biology Department has excellent facilities and faculty for the preparation of students interested in professional health and laboratory science careers. Competition for entry into health-related professional schools is keen. A student must expect to have an outstanding academic record to gain admission to a professional school. PSU students have been successful at gaining entrance to professional schools and excel in the programs.
Emphasis programs are available for students desiring to meet the requirements for entrance into medical, dental, optometry, veterinary, physical therapy, and cell and molecular biology. There is also a separate degree program in medical technology.
Students in any area of pre-med, health, and laboratory science options can earn the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. Students emphasizing medical technology can earn the Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology which includes a 4th clinical year or earn the Bachelor of Science in Biology and do a clinical experience post-graduate.
The PSU Health Professions Handbook is also available for further information on health professions, including general information, application information, and a premed overview.
Field Biology and Ecology
You can pursue interests in:
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field biology and environment: prepare for entry-level positions in industry or government or graduate school
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pre-fisheries and wildlife: prepare for graduate school or employment in fisheries and wildlife
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natural history: prepare for careers in nature interpretation in parks
Many universities seem to be downsizing the field components of their biology programs these days, even in the face of increasing ecological stresses and the real need for well-trained naturalists, taxonomists, ecologists, and environmental managers. PSU is proud of its continued and enhanced field-oriented programs.
The Biology Department has excellent facilities and faculty for the preparation of students interested in field biology and environment. The field biology and environment program is a broad program designed to meet the needs of a variety of students. Specific emphasis areas are available for students desiring to study pre-fisheries & wildlife, natural history, and environmental management. But for the student who does not want to specialize, our courses provide a wide range of opportunities to develop general skills and knowledge in the overall area of ecology, field biology, or botany and to specialize in areas of interest.
Secondary Education
The teaching of biology at the high school (secondary) level continues to attract and place many students. Our program in secondary education is among the best - if not the best - in Kansas and the region. Graduates of this program now teach in many area high schools, providing the best in biological education to the high schools they serve. The curriculum - and the job - is demanding but the rewards are very great.