DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY

Information

Melinda Ekkens-Villanueva, Ph.D. | Chair
Department of Biology and Chemistry
Room 102A, Science Building

Washington Adventist University
7600 Flower Avenue
Takoma Park, MD 20912-7796

301-891-4462 | Fax: 301-270-1618
mvillanu@wau.edu

Faculty

Melinda Ekkens-Villanueva, Ph.D.
Baljinder Singh, Ph.D.

Faculty Emeriti

Glen H. Bennett
Anthony G. Futcher

Staff

Kelsey Napier | Lab/Program Coordinator

MISSION STATEMENT

The Department of Biology and Chemistry supports the mission of the university by seeking to create an environment where students can learn:

the concepts of biology and Chemistry within a worldview that is biblical;
to think critically about sources of knowledge and knowledge claims, as well as to constantly try to integrate their knowledge, both within biology and chemistry and with other disciplines of study;
to encourage and support a sense of curiosity, and a realization of the excitement and reward that goes with discovery of the beauty and complexity of the living world and to inspire in students a realization of the importance and benefits of lifelong learning;
to see the importance of using their knowledge and talents in service to others and to encourage them to contribute in significant ways to society and the church as professionals and as citizens.
within the mentorship framework for the purpose of educating and producing well-rounded individuals who are socially, spiritually and academically mature.

INTRODUCTION

The study of biology and chemistry is foundational for many areas of study. The study of these areas provides exciting opportunities to investigate the interface between the real, observable world around us and the abstract realm of ideas. Combining experimental observations with theoretical deductions challenges scientists to find a new understanding of our universe with a well-defined, ever-growing system of concepts. The order, symmetry and unity of the universe become clearer through the study of biology and chemistry, which correlates scientific discovery with knowledge.

The aim of the Department of Biology and Chemistry is to provide a broad background in biology and chemistry sufficient to meet the needs of students who intend to enter graduate or professional schools, and to pursue various life science-oriented careers.

DEPARTMENTAL STUDENT-LEARNING OBJECTIVES

In addition to meeting the university student-learning objectives, students graduating with a degree in Biology or Biochemistry will:

Analyze and interpret scientific information (research, news, articles, etc.) based on their knowledge of biology;
Conduct standard laboratory procedures and employ safety behaviors for all phases of the experimental process including: design, execution, and closure.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The Biology major provides excellent preparation for students who wish to enter professional programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science or certain paramedical programs. Employment opportunities for biology graduates are available at federal, state and local agencies as biologists, ecologists, naturalists, wildlife managers and, with some additional training, as laboratory technicians or researchers. The Seventh-day Adventist denomination and the public school system provide opportunities for science teachers at the secondary level.

The Biochemistry major applies principles of chemistry, biology, and physics to develop an understanding of complex molecular mechanisms in living systems. The program in biochemistry is designed to prepare students for graduate studies, a research or teaching career, employment in the biotechnology sector, work in the environmental sciences, or entrance into medical, dental, veterinary, pharmacy, and other postbaccalaureate programs.

Many of these career opportunities for biologists and biochemists, as well as admission into other educational programs, require a minimum GPA of 3.0.

ADMISSION INFORMATOIN

Students entering the Department of Biology and Chemistry are expected to have a strong background in science and mathematics. Secondary school courses in biology I and II, algebra I and II, geometry, chemistry, physics and trigonometry are strongly recommended. A science transfer course must have been completed within the past five years from an accredited college or university. Upon admittance, the results of the math placement test, along with SAT/ACT scores in mathematics and natural sciences, are used for placement in college-level chemistry courses.

DEPARTMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Eligibility to Remain in the Program

The Department of Biology and Chemistry reserves the right to administratively withdraw a student from the major if, for any reason, the student’s scholastic achievement, mental health, integrity and/or ability to work with people proves unsatisfactory.

Progression Requirements

All biology and biochemistry students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher upon attaining junior class standing.
All biology and biochemistry students must achieve at least a “C” grade in all required major and cognate courses. However, the minimum allowable GPA for graduation is 2.50 in the major.
Biology and biochemistry students must repeat any required major or cognate course in which a grade lower than “C” is received. A student may not repeat any required major or cognate course more than once, nor may he or she repeat more than two required courses within the biology and cognate areas of study.

Students who do not meet the progression requirements will be required to change majors to a degree outside the department.

Programs

Baccalaureate Degree

Minors