The Biology Department at Waldorf University seeks to prepare its students to take on various leadership roles in solving problems facing human societies. This requires that students learn to think critically and analytically – students must be successful not only in the classroom but in their ability to use the tools of science. To accomplish this, the Department offers students a choice of programs that will prepare them for success either in graduate and professional schools or employment directly after graduation. In addition to these programs, the Waldorf Biology Department offers students opportunities that will help them become leaders in their chosen careers. Our alumni enjoy careers in human medicine (e.g., physicians, physical therapists, chiropractors, pharmacists), veterinary medicine, ecology (e.g., conservationists, marine biologists, park rangers), laboratory technology, education, etc.
Program Degree Tracks
Biology students may choose between the Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) tracks. Both tracks share the same core of biology and supporting courses in mathematics and sciences but differ in focus.
The BA track prepares students for employment directly after graduating. It requires no additional math credits, fewer additional science credits, and more credits in free (undesignated) electives. In this way, students can finish a comprehensive minor or even a second major during their four years completing the Biology program. This track also requires the completion of an internship. Combining preparation in Biology with another complementary field of study and completing a professional internship allows our graduates to be highly competitive for immediate employment.
The BS track prepares students for success in graduate school (for those pursuing a Master’s degree or Ph.D.) and a variety of professional schools (such as human or veterinary medicine, physical therapy, optometry, and dentistry) by offering a more profound preparation in the sciences. It requires additional credits in mathematics and the biological and physical sciences and requires students to conduct undergraduate research and write a Senior Thesis. Because of this deeper focus on the sciences, students have fewer credits for free electives. Completing a second major is still possible but will likely require an additional year.
Biology Department Goals
- Develop the practice of scientific and critical inquiry in students
- Assist students in understanding and applying scientific principles
- Develop quantitative skills in students
- Train students to operate biological equipment carefully and efficiently