About the Department

Guilford's Department of Biology offers a wide variety of curriculum options for students interested in the biological sciences. Our well-equipped laboratories occupy the first floor and the lower level of the Frank Family Science Center, which was completed in the summer of 2000. All of the laboratories make extensive use of computer technology for the study of cell biology, physiology and forensic science. One lab is designed specifically for use by students conducting independent research projects. In addition, for labs in ecology, ornithology and other field courses, a 240-acre forested tract known as the College Woods on the Guilford campus serves as a "living laboratory."

Many students interested in the health sciences choose to major in biology. Faculty in the biology department have extensive experience in advising students interested in medical school and other health professions.

Many biology courses involve fieldwork and off-campus field trips. Expanded study and research opportunities are available at the North Carolina coast, in the mountains and in adjacent states. Several biology courses are included as options for the new environmental studies major. Summer field courses offer students the opportunity to take courses taught in Kenya and the American Southwest.

Biology majors are encouraged to pursue independent research projects under the supervision of a biology faculty member. This research can lead to the writing of a senior thesis (BIOL 470: Senior Thesis) or to honors in biology (BIOL 490: Departmental Honors). In addition, there are numerous opportunities for student participation in independent studies (BIOL 260 or 460) and internships (BIOL 290).

Guilford is an affiliated institution with the School for Field Studies, which offers seven study abroad programs in the areas of ecology and field biology.

Degrees

Three degrees are offered through the Department of Biology:

  • Biology (BS): recommended for students interested in graduate school in any area of Biology, or in medical, dental, or veterinary school as well as other health professions
  • Life Sciences (BA): recommended for those students interested in the biological sciences whose career goals do not require courses in Physics or Calculus.
  • Forensic Biology (BA): newest major and the first 4-year degree program in forensic biology to be offered in North Carolina.

Concentrations

The Department of Biology also offers coursework for the following concentrations:

  • Environmental Studies
  • Field Biology
  • Forensic Science

Internships and Independent Studies

Many biology majors choose to accent their coursework with an internship or independent study in their area of interest. Recent students have completed internships at the following locations: various small animal veterinary hospitals, the Carnivore Preservation Trust, the North Carolina Zoological Park, the Natural Science Center, various wildlife rehabilitation centers, the Sea Turtle Rescue Center, Moses Cone Hospital, forensic laboratories, various medical centers, dentists' offices and clinics. The independent study option provides students with an opportunity to pursue in-depth research on a topic of their choice. Students work closely with a faculty member to plan and conduct their study. One laboratory in the department is reserved exclusively for students doing independent studies. Examples of recent independent study projects conducted by Guilford biology majors include the following: Analysis of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the Human NHE5 gene; Barrier Island Ecology; A Study of Two Feline Diseases; The Point Count Method for Censusing Bird Populations.