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Department of Biology

Department of Biology

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  2. Biology

Department of Biology at Western Kentucky University

Biology is the scientific study of life. The Department of Biology at WKU is dedicated to producing well-informed, scientifically literate graduates capable of applying the knowledge and skills acquired to ensure professional success and lifelong learning. Because of recent advances in technology related to the biological sciences, students interested in Biology are presented with many exciting educational experiences. Modern biology, involving the diverse biological subdisciplines from molecules to ecosystems, provides students with an ever-increasing array of educational and research opportunities.

Undergraduate Programs

Graduate Programs

 

 

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$59,322

Average Salary of Biology Undergraduate Alumni

$89,858

Average Salary of Biology Graduate Alumni

Physician, Dentist, Veterinarian, Pharmacist, Biological Research, Pharmaceutical Sales, Zookeeper, Park Ranger, Biology Teacher

Many careers in Biology require additional education beyond a bachelor's degree, such as a master's degree, Ph.D, or medical school.

Biology, Medical Terminology, Interpersonal Communication, Research, Transfection, DNA Sequencing, Wildlife Biology, Molecular Biology, Ecology

 

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS

Biology, Bachelor of Science (525)

  • Academic LevelUndergraduate
  • DegreeBachelor of Science
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Overview

The major in biology (525) provides students the opportunity to undertake an in-depth study of biology. A minor, second major, or certificate is not required. In addition to a required core, students complete a range of biology elective courses that can be tailored to their individual interests. In addition to coursework, students have the opportunity to apply up to six semester hours of faculty-guided independent research and/or internship towards their degree. This program is particularly well-suited to students interested in pursuing advanced study in a biology-related field or who require training in specific areas to support their career goals. 

Program Requirements (48 hours)

This option for a major in biology requires a minimum of 48 hours in biology with 24 hours at the 300 or higher level. No minor is required. A range of upper level courses are available in ecology and evolutionary biology, molecular and cellular biology, plant biology, animal biology, and microbiology.

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Course List
Required Courses
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab 1		4
BIOL 122
& BIOL 123		Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology
and Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology Lab 1		4
BIOL 489Professional Aspects of Biology1
Restricted Electives *4
Select one of the following:4
BIOL 222
& BIOL 223
Plant Biology and Diversity
and Plant Biology and Diversity Lab
BIOL 224
& BIOL 225
Animal Biology and Diversity
and Animal Biology and Diversity Lab
BIOL 226
& BIOL 227
Microbial Biology and Diversity
and Microbial Biology and Diversity Lab
Select one of the following:4
BIOL 319
& BIOL 322
Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology
and Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 327
& BIOL 337
Genetics
and Genetics Laboratory
Select one of the following: 3
BIOL 315
Ecology
or BIOL 316
 Evolution: Theory and Process
Laboratory Experience Courses *
Select five of the following:
BIOL 212
Genome Discovery Exploration
BIOL 312
Bioinformatics
BIOL 321
Comparative Anatomy
BIOL 322
Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 325
Insect Biodiversity
BIOL 328
Immunology
BIOL 331
Animal Physiology Laboratory
BIOL 337
Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 348
Plant Taxonomy
BIOL 350
Introduction to Recombinant Genetics
BIOL 355
Ecology Lab
BIOL 356
Ornithology Lab
BIOL 404
Techniques and Theory of Electron Microscopy
BIOL 412
Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 447
Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOL 450
Recombinant Gene Technology
BIOL 456
Ichthyology
BIOL 457
Herpetology
BIOL 458
Fisheries Management
BIOL 470
Pathogenic Microbiology
BIOL 485
Field Biology
BIOL 496
Plant Biotechnology
BIOL 497
Aquatic Field Ecology
Science Process Courses *
Select one of the following:
BIOL 212
Genome Discovery Exploration
BIOL 312
Bioinformatics
BIOL 331
Animal Physiology Laboratory
BIOL 350
Introduction to Recombinant Genetics
BIOL 355
Ecology Lab
BIOL 397
Scientific Process
BIOL 404
Techniques and Theory of Electron Microscopy
BIOL 407
Virology
BIOL 412
Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 456
Ichthyology
BIOL 457
Herpetology
BIOL 470
Pathogenic Microbiology
BIOL 495
Molecular Genetics
BIOL 496
Plant Biotechnology
BIOL 497
Aquatic Field Ecology
HON 404
Honors Thesis / Project II
Elective Course Work 2*
1

Must complete with a grade of “C” or better.

2

 Elective Coursework:

  • In consultation with their advisor, students select majors-level coursework to obtain a minimum of 48 credits total, provided that at least 24 hours total are upper division courses.
  • Students may count up to 6 credit hours of a combination of BIOL 369 and/or BIOL 399, and up to 4 credits of BIOL 485 toward this major.
*

The following BIOL courses will not count towards the BIOL electives nor the Biology major requirements: BIOL 113, BIOL 114, BIOL 131, BIOL 231, BIOL 207, BIOL 208, BIOL 295, BIOL 303, BIOL 390. 

Supporting Courses

Because an understanding of the principles of subjects outside of biology, in particular agriculture, chemistry, geography and geology, mathematics, physics and sociology is essential to the study of biology; majors are required to complete support courses.

Course List
MATH 116College Algebra3
MATH 117Trigonometry3
or MATH 136 Calculus I
CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		College Chemistry I
and College Chemistry I Laboratory		5
Select one of the following:3
Select one of the following:4
PHYS 231
& PHYS 232
Introduction to Physics and Biophysics I
and Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics I
PHYS 255
& PHYS 256
University Physics I
and University Physics I Lab
Select two of the following:6
AGRO 350
Soils
BIOL 382
Introductory Biostatistics
CHEM 222
& CHEM 223
College Chemistry II
and College Chemistry II Laboratory
CHEM 340
& CHEM 341
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
BDAN 305
Data Modeling and Analysis
CS 146
Introduction to Programming
GISC 316
Geographic Information Systems I
GISC 317
Geographic Information Systems II
MATH 136
Calculus I
MATH 137
Calculus II
SOCL 302
Social Research Methods
Total Hours24

Finish in Four Plans

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121 (or BIOL 122, BIOL 123)		4BIOL 120
& BIOL 121 (or BIOL 122, BIOL 123)		4
MATH 116 (or higher)3MATH 117 (or higher)3
ENG 1003Colonnade - Explorations3
HIST 101 or HIST 1023CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		5
 13 15
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 222
& BIOL 223 (or BIOL 224, BIOL 225 or BIOL 226 or BIOL 227)		4BIOL 319
& BIOL 322 (or BIOL 327 and BIOL 337)		4
Biology Science Supporting course (see Biology advisor)4ENG 2003
Colonnade - Explorations3BIOL Science Supporting Course (see Biology advisor)4
Upper-level BIOL elective with lab (see Biology advisor)4Upper-Level BIOL elective with lab4
 15 15
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 315 or BIOL 3163Upper-Level BIOL Elective with Lab4
COMM 1453Upper-Level BIOL Elective 3
Colonnade - Explorations3Upper-Level BIOL Elective with Lab4
Upper-Level BIOL Elective with lab (see Biology advisor)4Colonnade Connections3
Colonnade - Explorations3Writing in the Disciplines3
 16 17
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 4891Upper-Level BIOL Elective 4
Upper-Level BIOL Elective4Upper-Level BIOL Elective 4
Colonnade - Connections3Colonnade - Connections3
World Language 3Upper-Level BIOL Elective 4
BIOL Process Elective3 
 14 15
Total Hours 120

Biology, Bachelor of Science (617)

  • Academic LevelUndergraduate
  • DegreeBachelor of Science
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Overview

The major in biology (617) gives students an opportunity to couple broad-based study in biology with a second major, minor, or certificate. In addition to coursework, students may apply up to three semester hours of faculty-guided independent research and/or internship towards their degree.

Students who wish to be certified to teach high school biology must complete both the major in Biology (reference number 617) with a teacher education certification (TCHR), and the major in Science and Mathematics Education (reference number 774). Interested students should contact the SKyTeach Office, Kelly Thompson Hall 1011A, 270-745-3900 or visit www.wku.edu/skyteach.

Concentrations

  • Teacher Education (TCHR)

Program Requirements (36 hours)

This option for a major in biology requires a minimum of 36 semester hours in biology with 18 hours at the 300 or higher level plus the requirements of a minor area or a second major. The major-minor / second major combination must be at least 54 total hours with 48 unduplicated hours.

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Course List
Required Courses
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab 1		4
BIOL 122
& BIOL 123		Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology
and Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology Lab 1		4
BIOL 489Professional Aspects of Biology1
Restricted Electives *
Select one of the following:4
BIOL 222
& BIOL 223
Plant Biology and Diversity
and Plant Biology and Diversity Lab
BIOL 224
& BIOL 225
Animal Biology and Diversity
and Animal Biology and Diversity Lab
BIOL 226
& BIOL 227
Microbial Biology and Diversity
and Microbial Biology and Diversity Lab
Select one of the following:4
BIOL 319
& BIOL 322
Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology
and Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 327
& BIOL 337
Genetics
and Genetics Laboratory
Select one of the following: 3
BIOL 315
Ecology
or BIOL 316
 Evolution: Theory and Process
Laboratory Experience Courses *
Select three of the following:
BIOL 212
Genome Discovery Exploration
BIOL 312
Bioinformatics
BIOL 321
Comparative Anatomy
BIOL 322
Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 325
Insect Biodiversity
BIOL 328
Immunology
BIOL 331
Animal Physiology Laboratory
BIOL 337
Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 348
Plant Taxonomy
BIOL 350
Introduction to Recombinant Genetics
BIOL 355
Ecology Lab
BIOL 356
Ornithology Lab
BIOL 404
Techniques and Theory of Electron Microscopy
BIOL 412
Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 447
Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOL 450
Recombinant Gene Technology
BIOL 456
Ichthyology
BIOL 457
Herpetology
BIOL 458
Fisheries Management
BIOL 470
Pathogenic Microbiology
BIOL 485
Field Biology
BIOL 496
Plant Biotechnology
BIOL 497
Aquatic Field Ecology
Science Process Courses *
Select one of the following:
BIOL 212
Genome Discovery Exploration
BIOL 312
Bioinformatics
BIOL 331
Animal Physiology Laboratory
BIOL 350
Introduction to Recombinant Genetics
BIOL 355
Ecology Lab
BIOL 397
Scientific Process
BIOL 404
Techniques and Theory of Electron Microscopy
BIOL 407
Virology
BIOL 412
Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 456
Ichthyology
BIOL 457
Herpetology
BIOL 470
Pathogenic Microbiology
BIOL 495
Molecular Genetics
BIOL 496
Plant Biotechnology
BIOL 497
Aquatic Field Ecology
HON 404
Honors Thesis / Project II
Total Hours20
1

Must complete with a grade of “C” or better.

*

The following BIOL courses will not count towards the BIOL electives nor the Biology major requirements: BIOL 113, BIOL 114, BIOL 131, BIOL 231, BIOL 207, BIOL 208, BIOL 295,  BIOL 303, BIOL 390. 

Supporting Courses

Because an understanding of the principles of subjects outside of biology, in particular agriculture, chemistry, geography and geology, mathematics, physics and sociology is essential to the study of biology, majors are required to complete supporting courses.

Course List
MATH 116College Algebra3
MATH 117Trigonometry3
or MATH 136 Calculus I
CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		College Chemistry I
and College Chemistry I Laboratory		5
Select one of the following:4
PHYS 231
& PHYS 232
Introduction to Physics and Biophysics I
and Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics I
PHYS 255
& PHYS 256
University Physics I
and University Physics I Lab
Select two of the following:
AGRO 350
Soils
BIOL 382
Introductory Biostatistics
CHEM 222
& CHEM 223
College Chemistry II
and College Chemistry II Laboratory
CHEM 330
Quantitative Analysis
CHEM 340
& CHEM 341
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
BDAN 305
Data Modeling and Analysis
or CIS 226
 Introduction to Visual Programming
or CS 146
 Introduction to Programming
CS 146
Introduction to Programming
GISC 316
Geographic Information Systems I
GISC 317
Geographic Information Systems II
MATH 136
Calculus I
MATH 137
Calculus II
PHYS 332
& PHYS 233
Introduction to Physics and Biophysics II
and Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics II
or PHYS 265
& PHYS 266
 University Physics II
and University Physics II Laboratory
SOCL 302
Social Research Methods
Total Hours15

In consultation with their advisor, students select majors-level coursework to obtain a minimum of 36 credits total, provided that at least 18 hours total are upper-division courses. Students may count up to 3 credit hours of a combination of BIOL 369 and/or BIOL 399, and up to 4 credit hours of BIOL 485 toward this major.

Finish in Four Plans

Finish in Four Plan 

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121 (or BIOL 122. BIOL 123)		4BIOL 120
& BIOL 121 (or BIOL 122, BIOL 123)		4
MATH 116 (or higher)3MATH 117 (or higher)3
ENG 1003CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		5
HIST 101 or HIST 1023Course in Minor or Certificate3
 13 15
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 222
& BIOL 223 (or BIOL 224/225 or BIOL 226/227)		4BIOL 319
& BIOL 322 (or BIOL 327/337)		4
Course in Minor3ENG 2003
Biology Science Supporting Course with Lab4Biology Science supporting course with lab4
Colonnade - Explorations3Colonnade - Explorations3
Courses in Minor3Course in Minor or Certificate3
 17 17
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 315 or BIOL 3163BIOL upper-division Elective with lab4
COMM 1453Colonnade - Explorations3
Colonnade - Explorations3BIOL upper-division Elective with lab4
BIOL upper-division Elective4Upper-division Course in Minor3
Course in Minor3Colonnade - Writing in the Disciplines3
 16 17
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 4891BIOL upper-division Elective3
Upper-division Course in Minor3Upper-division Course in Minor3
Colonnade - Connections3Colonnade - Connections3
World Language or Elective3Colonnade - Connections3
BIOL Process Elective (see Biology advisor)3 
 13 12
Total Hours 120

Medical Laboratory Science, Bachelor of Science (5004)

  • Academic LevelUndergraduate
  • DegreeBachelor of Science
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Overview

With the aging of our population, it is estimated that health care will be a major service industry in our country. An important part of health care is Medical Laboratory Science, formally known as Medical Technology, a profession that includes well-trained, highly educated individuals who are the fact-finders of the medical world. Medical Laboratory Scientists typically analyze body fluids, examine tissues, and identify specific microorganisms to find evidence for and the cause of specific diseases such as AIDS, Diabetes, and Cancer. Some of the exciting new demands of the profession include tissue typing for organ transplantation, chromosomal studies as a basis for genetic counseling, identification of environmental pollutants, and screening tests for accidental poisoning and drug abuse. The demand for graduates in this field is very high. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics continues to project a need for new Medical Laboratory Scientists to meet medical demands of an aging population.

Although two-thirds of Medical Laboratory Scientists work in hospital laboratories, new sources of employment include laboratories in physician’s offices, research facilities in universities and industries, public health centers, and veterinary clinics.

The Medical Laboratory Science program combines a minimum of three years (96 semester hours) of college courses at Western Kentucky University with a minimum of 12 calendar months (36 semester hours) of satisfactory clinical training in a school of Medical Laboratory Science (Medical Technology). This school must be approved by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation of the American Medical Association and by the medical technology coordinator at Western Kentucky University.

Coursework for this major requires a minimum of 83 hours (36 of which are completed at a Medical Laboratory Science school and transferred back to the Department of Biology) and leads to a B.S. degree in Medical Laboratory Science. No minor, second major, or certificate is required. A student must meet all of the Colonnade Requirements for the bachelor’s degree at Western Kentucky University before admission to the clinical year at the affiliated school of Medical Laboratory Science (Medical Technology). Upon satisfactory completion of the course requirements in medical laboratory science, the Bachelor of Science degree will be awarded by Western Kentucky University. Graduates of the medical laboratory science program are eligible to take national credentialing examinations for medical technologists which result in membership in the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (A.S.C.P.). The program is affiliated with the following schools of medical technology: Bellarmine University, Louisville, KY; Owensboro Medical Health System, Owensboro, KY; Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, TN; and St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Covington, KY.

Program Requirements (83 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Course List
Required Courses:
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab		4
BIOL 122
& BIOL 123		Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology
and Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology Lab		4
BIOL 224
& BIOL 225		Animal Biology and Diversity
and Animal Biology and Diversity Lab		4
BIOL 226
& BIOL 227		Microbial Biology and Diversity
and Microbial Biology and Diversity Lab		4
Select one of the following:4
BIOL 319
& BIOL 322
Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology
and Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 327
& BIOL 337
Genetics
and Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 328Immunology4
CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		College Chemistry I
and College Chemistry I Laboratory		5
CHEM 222
& CHEM 223		College Chemistry II
and College Chemistry II Laboratory		5
BIOL/CHEM 446Biochemistry I3
CHEM 340
& CHEM 341		Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry Laboratory I		5
MATH 118College Algebra and Trigonometry5
or MATH 116
& MATH 117		 College Algebra
and Trigonometry
Clinical training at a Medical Laboratory School36
Total Hours83

More detailed information including Colonnade (general education) requirements can be obtained from the coordinator. Students must consult the coordinator regarding applying for admission to the medical technology schools. Application is made 9 to 12 months in advance of the beginning date for the medical technology school. Admission to these schools is on a competitive basis, and maintenance of a good academic standing is required. Students are required to have liability insurance for their clinical years.

Finish in Four Plans

Finish in Four Plan

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours 
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		4BIOL 122
& BIOL 123		4 
MATH 116 (or higher)3MATH 117 (or higher)3 
ENG 1003Colonnade - Explorations3 
Colonnade - Explorations3 
Colonnade - Explorations3CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		5 
 16 15 
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours 
BIOL 224
& BIOL 225		4BIOL 3284 
ENG 2003BIOL 226
& BIOL 227		4 
BIOL 327
& BIOL 337 (or BIOL 319/322)		4COMM 1453 
BIOL upper-division Elective3CHEM 222
& CHEM 223		5 
Colonnade - Explorations3BIOL upper-division Elective3 
 17 19 
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHoursSummerHours
CHEM 340
& CHEM 341		5CHEM 446 or BIOL 4463BIOL 4924
BIOL upper-division Elective3HIST 101 or HIST 1023 
World Language or Elective3BIOL upper-division Elective3 
Colonnade - Writing in the Disciplines3Colonnade - Connections3 
Colonnade - Connections3Colonnade - Connections3 
 17 15 4
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHoursSummerHours
BIOL 49314BIOL 49414BIOL 4924
 14 14 4
Total Hours 135

Molecular Biotechnology, Bachelor of Science (738)

  • Academic LevelUndergraduate
  • DegreeBachelor of Science
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Overview

Molecular biotechnology uses molecular and genetic tools to improve the human condition either directly through medical improvements or indirectly through improvements of the environment and agriculture. It does so through modification of nucleic acids and proteins.

The molecular biotechnology major allows students to be part of exciting new developments like genomics, personalized medicine, cloning, organoid research, stem cell research, and genome editing. The skills acquired may be applied to the development of new pharmaceutical drugs or other medical products, industrial chemicals, food products, energy sources, pollution-control products, or agricultural products. Employment can be found in both industry and academia. Industry jobs range from biotechnological product development and sales, to research and development. Graduates of this major will also have the broad science training in molecular tools that will enable them to pursue advanced degrees via medical or professional school, or graduate school.

Program Requirements (55 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

This major requires a minimum of 55 hours of molecular biotechnology – related courses in biology that involve subjects such as genome discovery, molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, and research experience or an internship, among others. At least 28 of these hours must be at the 300 or higher level. No minor is required.

Course List
Core Courses
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab		4
BIOL 122
& BIOL 223		Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology
and Plant Biology and Diversity Lab		4
BIOL 212Genome Discovery Exploration2
BIOL 226
& BIOL 227		Microbial Biology and Diversity
and Microbial Biology and Diversity Lab		4
BIOL 312Bioinformatics4
BIOL 319
& BIOL 322		Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology
and Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory		4
BIOL 327
& BIOL 337		Genetics
and Genetics Laboratory		4
BIOL 350Introduction to Recombinant Genetics3
BIOL 369Cooperative Education in Biology3
or BIOL 399 Research Problems in Biology
BIOL 382Introductory Biostatistics3
BIOL 388Contemporary Issues in Biotechnology 11
BIOL 411Cell Biology3
BIOL 446
& BIOL 447		Biochemistry I
and Biochemistry Laboratory		5
BIOL 489Professional Aspects of Biology1
Select 10 credit hours from the following electives:10
BIOL 222
& BIOL 223
Plant Biology and Diversity
and Plant Biology and Diversity Lab
or BIOL 224
& BIOL 225
 Animal Biology and Diversity
and Animal Biology and Diversity Lab
BIOL 316
Evolution: Theory and Process
BIOL 328
Immunology
BIOL 330
Animal Physiology
BIOL 331
Animal Physiology Laboratory
BIOL 335
Neurobiology
BIOL 403
Molecular Basis of Cancer
BIOL 404
Techniques and Theory of Electron Microscopy
BIOL 407
Virology
BIOL 412
Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 420
Introduction to Toxicology
BIOL 440
Developmental Genetics
BIOL 464
Endocrinology
BIOL 467
Biochemistry II
BIOL 470
Pathogenic Microbiology
BIOL 490
Plants as Alternative Therapeutics
BIOL 495
Molecular Genetics
BIOL 496
Plant Biotechnology
Total Hours55
1

Students must also take BIOL 388 every semester for a minimum of 5 at 0 credit hours before being able to take the course for 1 credit hour in their last semester.

Because an understanding of mathematics, chemistry, and physics is required for a full understanding of Molecular Biotechnology and because an understanding of workplace-related issues is important for a successful application of molecular biotechnology, students are required to complete the supporting courses:

Course List
Required Supporting Courses
MATH 117Trigonometry3
or MATH 136 Calculus I
CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		College Chemistry I
and College Chemistry I Laboratory		5
CHEM 222
& CHEM 223		College Chemistry II
and College Chemistry II Laboratory		5
CHEM 340
& CHEM 341		Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry Laboratory I		5
PHYS 231
& PHYS 232		Introduction to Physics and Biophysics I
and Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics I		4
PHYS 332
& PHYS 233		Introduction to Physics and Biophysics II
and Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics II		4
MFGE 371Quality Assurance3
or MFGE 390 Project Management
or MFGE 430 Technology Management / Supervision / Team Building
Total Hours29

Finish in Four Plans

Finish in Four Plan

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		4BIOL 122
& BIOL 123		4
MATH 116 (or higher)3MATH 117 (or higher)3
ENG 1003BIOL 3124
BIOL 2122CHEM 120
& CHEM 121		5
BIOL 388*0BIOL 388*0
COMM 1453 
 15 16
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 226
& BIOL 227		4BIOL 319
& BIOL 322		4
BIOL 327
& BIOL 337		4BIOL 388*0
BIOL 388*0BIOL 399
& BIOL 369**		2-6
CHEM 222
& CHEM 223		5CHEM 340
& CHEM 341		5
Colonnade - Social & Behavioral Science3ENG 2003
 HIST 101 or HIST 1023
 16 17-21
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 3503BIOL 3823
BIOL 388*0BIOL 388*0
BIOL 399 or BIOL 3691BIOL 399 or BIOL 3691
CHEM 342
& CHEM 343		5BIOL 446
& BIOL 447		5
PHYS 231
& PHYS 232		4PHYS 332
& PHYS 233		4
Colonnade - Arts & Humanities3Colonnade - Writing in the Disciplines3
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
BIOL 388*0BIOL 3881
BIOL TECH Elective3BIOL 4891
BIOL TECH Elective3BIOL 4113
Colonnade - Connections3BIOL TECH Elective3
Colonnade - Connections3MFGE 371, MFGE 390, or MFGE 4303
 Colonnade - Connections3
 12 14
Total Hours 122-126
*

BIOL 388: Examination of recent advances, ethics and career opportunities in Biotechnology through discussions, seminars and field trips. All majors will take this course together every semester with credit bearing in the last semester. The course meets a few times in a semester.

**

BIOL 369 or 399: Students have the opportunity to choose a 369 Cooperative Internship in place of 399 Research in Biology or take both. The internship or research course can also be taken during the summer. 

Biology, Minor (326)

  • Academic LevelUndergraduate
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Program Requirements (24 hours)

The minor in biology (326) provides an opportunity for students to couple training in their primary discipline with an understanding of the foundational concepts, theories, patterns, and processes in the biological sciences. Beyond the core, the biology minor is flexible, allowing students to tailor their coursework to their primary areas of interest.

Course List
Required Courses:
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab		4
BIOL 122
& BIOL 123		Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology
and Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology Lab		4
Select additional biology courses with the aid of their advisor 116
Total Hours24
1

12 hours must be at the 300 or higher level. The following BIOL courses will not count towards the BIOL electives nor the Biology minor requirements: BIOL 113, BIOL 114, BIOL 131 BIOL 231, BIOL 207, BIOL 208, BIOL 295, BIOL 303, BIOL 390.

Students, with the aid of their advisor, select additional biology courses to complete the minor. Students may count up to 3 credit hours of a combination of BIOL 369 and BIOL 399 and up to 4 credit hours of BIOL 485 toward this minor.

 

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Biology (056)

  • Academic LevelGraduate
  • DegreeMaster of Science
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Overview

The Master of Science in Biology offers advanced instruction and training in the life sciences, emphasizing the development of critical thinking skills and hypothesis-testing. Both a thesis and non-thesis concentration are available. The traditional thesis concentration prepares students for a wide range of careers in teaching, research, and public service, and provides excellent preparation for Ph.D. study or other research-based pursuits in the biological sciences and related fields. The non-thesis concentration offers a distance-learning option and is designed primarily for career-oriented students who desire asynchronous, advanced training in biology but do not require extensive research experience.

Concentrations

  • Thesis (BTHE)
  • Non-thesis (BNTH)

Program Admission

In addition to Graduate Studies requirements, the Department of Biology requires the following:

  • An undergraduate degree in Biology or a related discipline, or evidence of adequate preparation in the field of Biology;
  • A thoughtful and reflective Statement of Purpose (ca. 1-2 pages) that describes the applicant’s background, experience and preparation in the field, interest in the WKU program, and future or career interests. The statement must specify whether applicant is choosing the thesis or non-thesis (online) concentration, and thesis concentration applicants must identify a WKU biology graduate faculty member who has agreed to serve as advisor;
  • A current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;
  • Three letters of recommendation from professional references.

Program Requirements (30 hours)

The M.S. in Biology program offers thesis and non-thesis concentrations. Thesis students enroll in six hours of BIOL 599 and non-thesis students enroll in four hours of BIOL 516 as part of their degree program.

Thesis Concentration

Course List
Required Courses
BIOL 500Introduction to Graduate Studies and Research in Biology (Typically first semester)3
BIOL 598Graduate Seminar (Typically final semester)2
BIOL 599Thesis Research/Writing6
Electives
Any BIOL graduate courses except BIOL 51619
Total Hours30

Non-thesis Concentration

Course List
Required Courses
BIOL 500Introduction to Graduate Studies and Research in Biology (Taken prior to BIOL516)3
BIOL 516Investigations/Biology4
BIOL 598Graduate Seminar2
Electives
Any BIOL graduate courses except BIOL 59921
Total Hours30

Biology (0493)

  • Academic LevelGraduate
  • CollegeScience and Engineering
  • DepartmentBiology

Overview

The Biology Certificate is designed for individuals pursuing a career in a biology-related field and who require 15 hours of graduate biology coursework for professional training or accreditation. It is also applicable for students interested in pursuing an advanced degree in the field, but who do not have an undergraduate degree in biology. Completion of the Biology Certificate Program will equip graduates with supplemental and enhanced knowledge and skills in biology that broaden their career opportunities and support their professional development. The Biology Certificate also allows for transition into the Master of Science Program (056), non-thesis concentration.

Program Admission

Graduate School Admission

Please refer to the admission section of this catalog for Graduate School admission requirements.

Program Requirements (15 hours)

Course List
Required Courses
BIOL 524Evolution and Ecological Genetics3
or BIOL 532 Behavioral Ecology
or BIOL 543 Environmental Science Concepts
or BIOL 545 Animal Communication
BIOL 407GVirology3
or BIOL 411G Cell Biology
or BIOL 446G Biochemistry I
or BIOL 495G Molecular Genetics
Electives
Select 9 hours of graduate biology courses 19
Completion of Biology Assessment Exam
Total Hours15
1

Students may not select BIOL 500, BIOL 516, BIOL 598 or BIOL 599.

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Why Study Biology at WKU?

The Biology programs at Western Kentucky University offer students a unique and immersive academic experience. Students engage in hands-on learning in their coursework and are able to conduct real research alongside Biology faculty throughout their education. Many students are published before earning their bachelor's degree.

Conduct Research

Get Involved

 

Headshot of Elise Demers.

During my time as an undergraduate, I majored in Biology with a minor in neuroscience. I spent my time volunteering at New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding, coaching for the Bowling Green Special Olympics Swim Team, working as a teaching assistant and biology ambassador within the biology department, and participating in greek life as a member of Chi Omega. Through these experiences as well as working as a physical therapy technician at KORT physical therapy, I decided to pursue occupational therapy as a career. Helping others learn the skills they need to be capable of doing what they love is what I have found a passion for. My younger brother, who has a rare developmental disorder called Cornelia De Lange syndrome, has been my inspiration for my studies and I hope to play a part in improving the quality of life for those with disabilities in the future.

Elise Demers

 Last Modified 10/29/24