Biology

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

Biology majors will study both the smallest parts of life—cells, molecules, genes—and the largest—the human body, the environment, the animal world. All CBU biology courses are taught by full-time faculty members who interact with students in the classroom and in the lab. Students will participate in research, complete an internship or have the opportunity to assist faculty members with research projects. About 90% of our biology students who have applied to medical and dental programs have been accepted, and 100% of those who have applied to pharmacy programs over the last 10 years have been accepted.

Minors and Concentrations
Biology Minor

Environmental Science Concentration
General Biology Concentration
Secondary Biology Education Concentration

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning Outcomes
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Why study biology at CBU?

Research with faculty
Our faculty are personally invested in the students, and opportunities for students to be involved in research and student organizations are plenty.

Prepare for graduate school
We are very proud of the success our graduates are having, especially those who were looking at pre-medical and pre-health professions. About 90% of our biology students who have applied to medical programs have been accepted, and 100% of those who have applied to pharmacy programs over the last 10 years have been accepted.

Genetics

BIO 313

The principles of genetics including the nature of genetic materials, chromosome mechanics, genetic recombination, and gene action.

Cell and Molecular Biology

BIO 330

An examination of the structure, ultrastructure, organization, and functions of cells.

Biology Seminar

BIO 380

This course will introduce and reinforce the skills necessary to perform biological research.

Student Learning Outcomes

SLO 1: Upon completion of the B.S. in Biology, students will demonstrate competency in biology at levels comparable to national standards.
SLO 2: Students will be able to critically analyze and discuss scientific journal articles.
SLO 3: Students will be able to critically analyze and discuss selected contemporary and/or controversial issues in biology, enabling them to be informed citizens and participants in the public debate and discourse involving these issues.
SLO 4: Students will demonstrate proficiency in accurately conveying scientific data both orally and in writing.
SLO 5: Students will apply their knowledge of biology and science through participation in a focused research project and/or an internship.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

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Career Opportunities

Doctor
Dentist
Pharmacist
Forensic Pathologist
Climatologist
Patent Lawyer
Veterinarian
Zoologist
Animal Care Worker
Air Quality Specialist
Soil Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Botanist
Park Ranger
Teacher
Museum Curator
Science Writer
Physical Therapist
Chiropractor
Toxicologist

*Some career opportunities may require further education

64–68

Units

3

Concentrations

15%

Expected Rate of Growth in the Field

Student Testimonials

"I chose my major because I like biology. The program has made me more responsible and the classes are all very interesting."
Ernie Borno, 2018

"I think medicine is extremely interesting and it's one of the jobs where you can potentially save lives. And biology has always been an interest of mine. The professors at CBU care and want you to do well. They are extremely helpful and always available for office hours."
David Martinez, 2019

"I chose biology because I love the ocean. While in CBU's program, I have become more mature and determined. I know I have a lot of options, now, for the future."
Antonio Diaz-Vega, 2021

"I chose biology because I want to help people and go to medical school. The teachers are really awesome and they are always there to help you if you have questions."
Kyle Moore, 2021

"I chose this major because biology will give me the right tools and knowledge to further my passion for helping those in need. I love a lot of things about this program at CBU because the whole staff wants nothing but success for every individual."
Aldo Avendano, 2021

"I have an interest in science and I want to become a doctor to help those in need. I like the community within the biology major and how the professors all want the best for me."
Taj Sangha, 2020

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Bruce Prins

Professor of Biology

As a professor, instructing about biological systems and the human body is awesome, but meeting with students and seeing their successes is even more exhilarating! During the last several years, I have also been blessed to serve on International Service Projects with CBU students. In my off hours, I love to read biographies, hike with my wife, bike on mountain roads, and do house projects.

See Profile >

Andrew Park

Professor of Biology

I was interested in studying insects and microbes when I was in high school. As a result, I chose to study insect pathology and I still love it. I earned my Ph.D. at the University of California, Riverside, and I had my first faculty position at Florida A&M University, where I taught graduate students and performed research on mosquito control. And that was the time that the Lord saved me (hallelujah)! Then, He brought me back to Riverside as a faculty member at CBU.

See Profile >

Dennis Bideshi

Professor of Biology

As a molecular geneticist, I conduct research with national and international scientists on entomopathogenic viruses and bacteria that target mosquito vectors of infectious diseases. I especially enjoy teaching at CBU and purposefully participating in the collective vision and mission of Biological Sciences as exemplified in the lifelong faith-based commitments, achievements and successes of current students and alumni.

See Profile >

Bruce Prins

Professor of Biology

As a professor, instructing about biological systems and the human body is awesome, but meeting with students and seeing their successes is even more exhilarating! During the last several years, I have also been blessed to serve on International Service Projects with CBU students. In my off hours, I love to read biographies, hike with my wife, bike on mountain roads, and do house projects.

See Profile >
Andrew Park

Professor of Biology

I was interested in studying insects and microbes when I was in high school. As a result, I chose to study insect pathology and I still love it. I earned my Ph.D. at the University of California, Riverside, and I had my first faculty position at Florida A&M University, where I taught graduate students and performed research on mosquito control. And that was the time that the Lord saved me (hallelujah)! Then, He brought me back to Riverside as a faculty member at CBU.

See Profile >
Dennis Bideshi

Professor of Biology

As a molecular geneticist, I conduct research with national and international scientists on entomopathogenic viruses and bacteria that target mosquito vectors of infectious diseases. I especially enjoy teaching at CBU and purposefully participating in the collective vision and mission of Biological Sciences as exemplified in the lifelong faith-based commitments, achievements and successes of current students and alumni.

See Profile >