Overview
Noveera Ahmed, Chair of the Division of Life Sciences
St. John Fisher University Biology graduates will enter the world as impactful scientists and citizens, determined to improve the lives of our local, national, and global communities.
The mission of the Biology program at St. John Fisher University is to promote the development of students as citizens and scientists who are prepared for the opportunities, as well as challenges, of a diverse and complex living world. The department’s focus on academic excellence, grounded in the scholarship of teaching, provides a balanced approach to investigating the themes of Biology while also providing opportunities for focused studies through hands-on independent research and courses in the faculty's area of expertise. Through a Liberal Arts lens, our Biology graduates explore and analyze the world, apply creative and critical thinking skills, engage in experiential research, utilize quantitative analysis, draw on scientific literacy, and confidently plan for and achieve their future endeavors.
The Division of Life Sciences at St. John Fisher University is committed to academic excellence and creating an environment where everyone, from any background, can do their best work. We will achieve this by working collaboratively to create student-centered and inclusive learning environments that encourage resilience and reflection. We believe in the importance of mentorship and our responsibility to serve as guides supporting our students as they discover their own paths. We will provide agency to develop students who are self-directed learners and leaders, in and out of the classroom. We will model being global citizens by demonstrating and teaching social, environmental, and professional responsibility.
The division offers both a B.A. and a B.S. degree in biology.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology
The Bachelor of Arts in Biology allows a student more time to study other areas of the liberal arts, as well as an opportunity to pursue a double major. The B.A. degree may be of special interest to those who want to combine another major, such as sustainability, chemistry, or education, with their biology major. If a second major is not pursued, the student is required to complete a minor program in another area of study. This degree is recommended for students who plan to pursue graduate studies in the areas of physician assistant studies and physical therapy.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology
The Bachelor of Science in Biology is recommended for students who want a concentrated biological sciences program. Students pursuing a B.S. degree may complete a minor program, but are not required to do so.
Pre-Health Professions Program
The Pre-Health Professions Program is for students interested in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, veterinary medicine, chiropractic medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, public health, and health care-related careers other than nursing. Students interested in nursing should refer to the Wegmans School of Nursing. A degree in biology is not required for admission to medical, pharmacy, and other health professional schools, but certain science courses are required for admission and in preparation for standardized admissions tests. Students contemplating careers in the health professions should consult with the health professions advisor as early in their undergraduate years as possible.