BIOLOGY

The Biological and Allied Health Sciences of the School of Science, Technology and Mathematics has developed seven (7) Specific Learning Objectives (SLOs) to assess 4 major programs (Biology, Field and Environmental Biology, Forensic Biology and Molecular Biology).

To assess the unique features of the Biology major program (“Bachelor of Science in Biology”), the program-specific learning objectives (PSLOs) (lettered a, b, c, etc.) are listed under each appropriate SLO.  After completing the Biology undergraduate major program, graduates will be able to:

 

SLO 1.  apply the scientific method in solving a biological question

SLO 2.  demonstrate advanced proficiency in the most common and important biological concepts and principles

  PSLO 2a - apply and use the following basic concepts of the cell: the structure and function of macromolecules, organelles, membrane transport, enzyme kinetics, respiration,   photosynthesis, mitosis and meiosis

           PSLO2b - use the following basic genetics concepts to accurately predict patterns of inheritance: meiosis, molecular basis of inheritance (Mendelian genetics), gene structure, expression and regulation

           PSLO2c - describe how evolution via natural selection leads to biodiversity and the role of the fossil record in elucidating the evolutionary process and classification of organisms using taxonomic hierarchy

           PSLO2d - explain the following basic ecological concepts and how human interaction impacts their outcome: biogeochemical cycles, energy flow through the trophic structure

           PSLO2e - compare and contrast the following major physiological processes in plants and animals: respiration, digestion, reproduction, movement, support, immunity, sensory perception and signal transduction, homeostasis and transportation

           PSLO2f - compare and contrast the morphological / anatomical features in plants and animals involved in the following: respiration, digestion, reproduction, movement, support, immunity, sensory perception and signal transduction, homeostasis and transportation and integrate these with their corresponding physiological functions

SLO 3.  demonstrate advanced proficiency in the most common and important biological laboratory skills and techniques

         PSLO3a - correctly perform the following microcopy and sample preparation skills: prepare a wet mount, a simple stain, and a differential stain with specimen analysis for use on a compound microscope 

         PSLO3b - correctly perform the following skills: precisely and accurately pipet, perform straight and serial dilutions, use a spectrophotometer

SLO 4.  demonstrate effective written communication of scientific concepts

SLO 5.  demonstrate effective verbal communication of scientific concepts 

SLO 6.  demonstrate professionalism and interpersonal skills throughout their capstone experience

SLO 7.  apply discipline-specific biological concepts throughout their capstone experience

 

 

BIOCHEMISTRY

By completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate ability to communicate chemical and biochemical concepts in written and spoken formats
  2. Think independently and critically about new and/or more intricate information in an area in which the fundamentals have been previously presented.
  3. Select, apply, and safely execute laboratory procedures appropriate to the physical measurements and system
  4. Appraise and describe biological phenomena in chemical terms
  5. Quantitatively analyze energetics and catalytic processes

 

 

 

 

CHEMISTRY (B.A)

By completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate ability to communicate chemical and biochemical concepts in written and spoken formats
  2. Demonstrate broad literacy in the physical sciences
  3. Select, apply, and safely execute laboratory procedures appropriate to the physical measurements and system
  4. Relate macroscopic properties to chemical structure
  5. Describe chemical concepts in an interdisciplinary or liberal arts setting

CHEMISTRY (B.S)

By completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate ability to communicate chemical and biochemical concepts in written and spoken formats
  2. Think independently and critically about new and/or more intricate information in an area in which the fundamentals have been previously presented
  3. Select, apply, and safely execute laboratory procedures appropriate to the physical measurements and system
  4. Quantitatively model and/or characterize static and dynamic chemical systems
  5. Relate macroscopic properties to chemical structure

 

 

 

 

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

Upon graduation, students majoring in construction management will have demonstrated an appropriate mastery of the knowledge, techniques, skills and modern tools of construction management as described in the following outcomes:

  1. Engage in Technical, Scientific & Quantitative Applications in the CM discipline.
  2. Employ Critical and Creative Thinking to identify and analyze underlying problems or issues in both theoretical and practical realms, apply appropriate analytical and creative skills to develop feasible alternatives while considering multiple perspectives, and provide creative and logical solutions.
  3. Apply competencies in Process Understanding that reflects building industry knowledge, materials and processes commonly applied within the built environment.
  4. Communicate Aesthetic Communication (technical/graphical), using oral, written and graphic methods as appropriate.
  5. Demonstrate Leadership, Management, and Teamwork as a functioning team member dedicated to quality and continuous improvement.
  6. Utilize Computer and Information Technology Systems by using emerging computer and information systems and apply creativity in design of systems, components or processes related to the construction discipline.
  7. Pursue Professional Development through Life-long Learning by seeking out potential solutions to problems through identifying, analyzing and collaborating with professionals.
  8. Exhibit Ethical and Professional Behavior with respect for social responsibilities, diversity and a knowledge of contemporary professional, societal and global issues.

 

 

 

 

ENVIRONMENTAL AND FIELD BIOLOGY

The environmental and field biology program, housed within the Department of Biological and Allied Health Sciences, has developed student-learning outcomes. After completing the major in environmental and field biology, graduates will be able to: 

  1. SLO 1. Demonstrate proficiency in the most common and important biological principles related to ecology, evolution, biodiversity and organismal biology.
    1. Describe the following ecological concepts: population growth and dynamics; species interactions; community structure; niche models; species richness and diversity; succession; energy flow and nutrient cycling; productivity; food webs; biogeography; biomes; anthropogenic effects on resources, pollution, habitats and disease
    2. Describe the following evolutionary concepts: natural selection; genetic variability in populations; Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; genetic drift; heritability, fitness and adaptation.
    3. Describe the following biodiversity concepts: phylogeny, classification, morphology and life histories of animals, plants, fungi, protists, archaea and bacteria; fossil record and patterns of evolution; systematics and taxonomy; organismal adaptations.
    4. Compare and contrast the structure, function and organization of the following processes in animals: digestion and nutrition; excretion and osmoregulation; respiration; circulation; support and movement; nervous and endocrine systems; integuments; immune systems; metabolism.
    5. Compare and contrast the structure, function and organization of the following in plants: roots, stems and leaves; water movement; metabolism; mineral nutrition; translocation and storage; reproduction; gametogenesis and sporogenesis; alternation of generations; meristems and growth.
  2. SLO 2. Demonstrate proficiency of the most common and important ecological and environmental field skills and techniques.
  3. SLO 3. Effectively communicate scientific concepts in written format.
  4. SLO 4. Effectively communicate scientific concepts in oral format.

 

 

 

FORENSIC BIOLOGY

To assess the unique features of the forensic biology major program (“Bachelor of Science in forensic biology”), the forensic biology program-specific learning objectives (FPSLOs) (lettered a, b, c, etc.) have been developed and are listed under each appropriate departmental SLO. After completing the forensic biology undergraduate major program, graduates will be able to:

  • SLO 1. Competently use the scientific method in solving a biological question.
  • SLO 2. Demonstrate mastery of the most common and important biological concepts and principles.
  • FPSLO 2a. Apply principles of general biology, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and statistics/population genetics to the analysis of biological materials. Biol 3571 and 2191.
  • SLO 3. Demonstrate mastery of the most common and important biological laboratory skills and techniques.
  • FPSLO 3a. Understand how to interpret and compare analytical data generated from the analyses of physical/chemical evidence and known exemplars. Biol 2191 and 2291.
  • SLO 4. Effectively communicate scientific concepts in written format
  • FPSLO 4a. Understand and effectively communicate scientific concepts and results through written forensic reports. Biol 2291 and 3571.
  • SLO 5. Effectively communicate scientific concepts in oral format.
  • FPSLO 5a. Understand legal processes, including courtroom testimony, relevant legal decisions and concepts. Biol 2191, 2291 and 2591.
  • SLO 6. Maintain a professional demeanor by demonstrating sound interpersonal skills.
  • SLO 7. Participate in a capstone experience enhancing application of biological concepts.

 

 

 

 

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Upon graduation, students majoring in manufacturing technology will have an appropriate mastery of the knowledge, techniques, skills and modern tools of manufacturing technology as described in the following outcomes:

  1. Engage in Technical, Scientific & Quantitative Applications in the manufacturing discipline.
  2. Utilize Critical and Creative Thinking to identify and analyze underlying problems or issues in both theoretical and practical realms, apply appropriate analytical and creative skills to develop feasible alternatives while considering multiple perspectives, and provide creative and logical solutions.
  3. Apply competencies in Process Understanding that reflects industry knowledge, materials and processes commonly applied within the manufacturing industry.
  4. Communicate Aesthetic Communication (technical/graphical), using oral, written and graphic methods as appropriate.
  5. Demonstrate Leadership, Management, and Teamwork as a functioning team member dedicated to quality and continuous improvement.
  6. Utilize Computer and Information Technology Systems by using emerging computer and information systems and apply creativity in design of automated systems, components or processes related to the manufacturing discipline.
  7. Pursue Professional Development through Life-long Learning by seeking out potential solutions to problems through identifying, analyzing and collaborating with professionals.
  8. Exhibit Ethical and Professional Behavior with respect for social responsibilities, diversity and a knowledge of contemporary professional, societal and global issues.

 

 

 

STATISTICS

Acquire core knowledge of mathematics and statistics required to provide background in an advanced topic in probability and/or statistics.

1. Establish understanding of core knowledge of mathematics and statistics required to provide background in an advanced topic in probability and/or statistics.

2. Place probabilistic or statistical results in the appropriate historical context.

3. Apply probabilistic or statistical knowledge to situations outside of courses.

4. Create probabilistic or statistical calculations and arguments. 

5. Investigate a probabilistic or statistical topic independently. 

6. Communicate probabilistic or statistical results in written form. 

7. Communicate probabilistic or statistical results in oral form.

8. Demonstrate awareness of the possibilities for future employment or education.

 

 

 

MATHEMATICS/MATHEMATICS EDUCATION

Acquire core knowledge, reasoning and computational skills from lower level required mathematics and statistics courses.

  1. Display an awareness of the historical context of mathematical ideas.
  2. Acquire knowledge, reasoning and computational skills in advanced required mathematics courses.
  3. Be able to apply appropriate mathematical knowledge and skills towards solving problems that are beyond ordinary coursework.  
  4. Be able to create mathematical arguments and proofs.
  5. Be able to communicate mathematical results in written form.
  6. Be able to communicate mathematical results in oral form.
  7. Demonstrate preparedness for future employment or education.

†The term "mathematics/education major" is used in this report to identify a mathematics major that is also pursuing Adolescent Young Adult teaching licensure in mathematics.

 

 

 

 

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

SLO 1. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN & DATA ANALYSIS
MB SLO 1 is in alignment with the Biology Major

SLO 1 – Competently use the scientific method in solving a biological question.
Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in molecular biology should demonstrate the ability to:

  1. Competently use the scientific method in solving a biological question.
  2. Implement observational strategies to formulate a question.
  3. Generate a testable hypothesis, design and implement an experiment using appropriate controls and appropriate sample sizes.
  4. Determine the appropriate technique necessary to answer an experimental question.
  5. Gather and evaluate experimental evidence, including qualitative and quantitative data.
  6. Generate and interpret graphs displaying experimental results.
  7. Apply statistical methods when analyzing their data, and use patterns to construct a Model.
  8. Utilize current primary literature in the field to inform their own experimental design and future work.
  9. Given a body of experimental data, be able to communicate the results in visual, written and oral formats. (See SLO 3 below.)

SLO 2. KNOWLEDGE OF CORE CONCEPTS AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
MB SLO 2 is in alignment with the Biology Major SLO 2 – Demonstrate mastery of the most common and important biological concepts and principles.
Students graduating with Bachelor of Science in molecular biology should demonstrate mastery in each of the following core concepts of molecular biology:

  1. 1.1 Evolution: The diversity of lifeforms that have evolved over time through mutations,selection and genetic change.
  2. 2.2 Information Flow, Exchange and Storage: The influence of genetics on the control of the growth and behavior of organisms.
  3. 2.3 Structure and Function: The basic units of biological structures that define the functions of all living things.
  4. 2.5 Systems: The ways in which living things are interconnected and interact with one another.

SLO 3. PERFORMANCE OF STANDARD LABORATORY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE OF COMMONLY UTILIZED TECHNIQUES IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
MB SLO 3 is in alignment with the Biology Major SLO 3 – Demonstrate mastery of the most common and important biological laboratory skills and techniques.
Students graduating with Bachelor of Science in molecular biology should demonstrate proficiency in the laboratory with respect to the following standard laboratory skills commonly encountered in scientific laboratories in the discipline:

  • Use of a compound light microscope in order to view specimens at multiple magnifications.
  • Make a solution of a specified molarity and pH concentration using proper solution making technique, including the proper use of a balance and pH meter.
  • Proficiency in pipetting using multiple instruments: Serological pipettes and micropipettes
  • •Centrifugation
  • •Nucleic Acid Isolation
  • Use of a standard spectrophotometer to determine the quantity of an unknown nucleic acid or protein
  • Spread Plating
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Agarose gel electrophoresis
  • Gram Staining
  • Maintenance of a laboratory notebook

Working safely individually and in team in a laboratory
In order for students to effectively analyze and critique primary literature, design an experiment or present scientific findings, they must be acquainted with a standard set of techniques utilized within the discipline. Molecular biology students will be able to describe the equipment and utilization of the following techniques:

  • Spectrophotometry
  • Microscopy (compound light microscopy and fluorescent microscopy)
  • PCR
  • RT-PCR (Reverse Transcriptase – Polymerase Chain Reaction)
  • Quantitative Real-Time PCR
  • Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
  • Standard Molecular Cloning (Restriction Digestion, Ligation, Transformation)
  • Western Blotting (SDS Page and Immunoblotting)
  • •Immunohistochemistry
  • Standard Bioinformatic Analysis (BLASTn, BLASTp, CLUSTLW)

SLO 4. WRITTEN & ORAL COMMUNICATION
MB SLO 4 is in alignment with the Biology Major SLO 4 – Effectively communicate scientific concepts in written format and SLO 5 – Effectively communicate scientific concepts in oral format.
Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in molecular biology should demonstrate the ability to communicate science in a variety of written and oral formats, including, but not limited to:

  • PRIMARY LITERATURE SUMMARY and/or CRITIQUE: Students should be able to write and/or orally present a summary and/or critique of a primary literature research paper with respect to the paper’s major findings.
  • ORAL PRESENTATIONS: Students should demonstrate proficiency in oral communication skill to a variety of audiences.
  • FORMAL LAB REPORT: Students should be able to write a formal laboratory report consisting of the following components: title, abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results (including proper data figures), discussion, and citations. Students should also be able to orally present the findings of their research following an outline similar to that utilized in a formal lab report.
  • POSTER PRESENTATION: Students should be able to generate and orally present a poster on their research.
  • POP SCIENCE: Students should be able to write and/or orally present a scientific topic to a general audience as a means of disseminating research and discoveries in molecular biology.

 

 

 

 

PHYSICS

  1. Acquire a quantitative and qualitative knowledge of classical physics.
  2. Acquire a quantitative and qualitative knowledge of modern physics.
  3. Develop an understanding of the scientific experiment: Design experiments, acquire data, interpret data, and formulate scientific conclusions.
  4. Distinguish what is reasonably well established and interpret and discriminate what is still highly hypothetical.
  5. Demonstrate fluency in written and spoken communication of the results of physical investigations.

 

 

 

 

TECHNOLOGICAL STUDIES

  1. Technical knowledge
  2. Critical and Creative Thinking
  3. Process understanding
  4. Aesthetic Communication
  5. Leadership management and teamwork
  6. Computer and information technology systems
  7. Professional development through life-long learning
  8. Ethical and Professional Behavior<

 

 

 

TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION (TECH COURSES ONLY)

Upon graduation, students majoring in technology education will have an appropriate mastery of the knowledge, techniques, skills and modern tools of manufacturing, construction, information technology, and systems as described in the following outcomes:

  1. Engage in Technical, Scientific & Quantitative Applications in the various technology driven applications.
  2. Utilize Critical and Creative Thinking to identify and analyze underlying problems or issues in both theoretical and practical realms, apply appropriate analytical and creative skills to develop learning activities within education.
  3. Apply and convey competencies in Process Understanding that reflects industry knowledge, materials and processes commonly applied.
  4. Communicate, using various mediums, Aesthetic Communication (technical/graphical), in the classroom.
  5. Demonstrate Leadership, Management, and Teamwork as a functioning team member dedicated to quality of instruction and continuous improvement.
  6. Utilize Computer and Information Technology Systems using emerging computer and information systems in classroom applications and apply creativity in design of systems, components or processes related to the learning environment.
  7. Pursue Professional Development through Life-long Learning by seeking out potential solutions to problems through identifying, analyzing and collaborating with professionals.
  8. Exhibit Ethical and Professional Behavior with respect for social responsibilities, diversity and a knowledge of contemporary professional, societal and global issues.