The study of living things has undergone a revolution, with unprecedented technological advances in disciplines like biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, developmental biology, neuroscience and computational biology.
Biological sciences majors at CMU-Q make observations and ask questions that help to solve real-world problems. In-depth exposure to multiple disciplines prepares students to be at the forefront of new fields, markets and policy decisions.
As part of the Mellon College of Science, CMU-Q biological sciences graduates are trained to be:
- scholars who are deeply trained in their discipline
- professionals adept at communicating to broad audiences, accustomed to working in diverse, multidisciplinary teams, and keenly aware of the global context of their work
- citizens who are actively involved and globally engaged
- persons who grow with a sense of wellness and balance
The Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences has a distinctive core curriculum that provides a foundation in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics. Students also choose electives in biology, humanities, social science and fine arts, shaping their degree programs according to their unique interests and goals.
Biological sciences students who wish to have a specialized focus can tailor their education to include a minor in disciplines such as computational biology or neuroscience. Many students broaden their education by pursuing minors in disciplines outside of the Mellon College of Science in areas such as psychology and business.
Our program offers the best of both worlds: the small size of a liberal arts program, and the educational opportunities of a large research institution.
The Biological Sciences Program provides students with rigorous training in biology, while building a strong foundation in all of the natural sciences.
Our students study biology at the macro and micro scales, focusing on five core areas:
- genetics and molecular biology
- biochemistry
- cell and developmental biology
- neuroscience
- computational biology
One of the most important features of the Biological Sciences Program is the opportunity for undergraduate students to interact with faculty. Providing a solid foundation to scientific practice is critical; therefore, the department offers students a variety of inquiry-based, hands-on courses that incorporate a wide range of topics and interests within biological sciences. These courses kick-start the transformation of science students to scientists.
Laboratory courses
Honors Modern Biology
This combination lecture and lab course provides students with a foundation in cellular and molecular biology. The laboratory component reinforces experimental concepts and encourages the analysis of experimental data. Experiments include enzyme kinetics, diffusion, polymerase chain reaction, electrophoresis, bacterial transformation, and the expression of recombinant proteins.
Frontiers, Analysis, and Discovery in Biological Sciences
First-year students can take an exciting course in the spring of their first year. In this course they will using a cutting-edge genetic modification tool, CRISPR, to alter the genetic material of yeast and mammalian cells.
Experimental Techniques in Molecular Biology
This course teaches experimental methods of modern biology. Students conduct experiments in microbial genetics, molecular biology and eukaryotic genetics, with an emphasis on understanding and applying the biological principles of each experiment. Experimentation using living organisms and/or their tissues, cells or molecules is an essential component of this course.
Experimental Biochemistry
Students learn methods for investigating the structure and function of biological molecules, including enzyme kinetics, spectroscopy, and techniques associated with mammalian cell technology such as tissue culture and flow cytometry. During several experiments, students design their own projects. Experimentation using living organisms and/or their tissues, cells or molecules is an essential component of this course.
