Nov 25, 2024  
Undergraduate Catalog 2014-2015 
    
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Undergraduate Catalog 2014-2015 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physical and Biological Sciences

 

Biology

Chairperson

Frank Somer, Ph.D.

Full-Time Faculty

Christopher Babayco, Ph.D.
Julie Estabrooks, Ph.D.
Alan James, Ph.D.
Nathan Means, Ph.D.
Rie Sasaki, Ph.D.
Frank Somer, Ph.D.
Kent Strodtman, Ph.D.
Peggy Wright, Ph.D.

Day Campus Course Rotation Schedule

   

   

Culminating Experience Course

BIOL 490 - Senior Seminar 1 hour  

The opportunities for students trained in biology have grown dramatically as there is an increasing demand for those who are educated in natural sciences. Through training in biology students learn to apply scientific methods, test hypotheses and develop laboratory skills. Critical thinking to evaluate scientific results through statistical analyses, scientific writing and oral presentation are basic skills developed by students who are biology majors.

The Science Department offers B.A. and B.S. degrees in biology. These degrees provide the background necessary for a variety of careers, including graduate and professional schools. A biology or chemistry major is recommended for those who are seeking entry into medical/veterinary/dental/nursing/graduate schools.

Students who have completed a degree in biology at Columbia College will:

  1. Understand basic scientific vocabulary and knowledge.
  2. Understand biological principles, models and theories used to predict, understand and apply to biological phenomena.
  3. Understand the scientific method and its application.
  4. Demonstrate proficiency in laboratory skills, including familiarity with the use of instrumentation and analytic methods commonly used in biological research.
  5. Evaluate scientific results through the use of statistical analyses and critical thinking.
  6. Demonstrate competence in scientific writing, oral presentation and familiarity with the use of scientific literature.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge regarding ethics in science and everyday life.

Chemistry

Chairperson

Frank Somer, Ph.D.

Full-Time Faculty

Christopher Babayco
Alan James, Ph.D.
Nathan Means, Ph.D.
Rie Sasaki, Ph.D.
Frank Somer, Ph.D.
Kent Strodtman, Ph.D.
Peggy Wright, Ph.D.

Day Campus Course Rotation Schedule

   

Culminating Experience Course

CHEM 490 - Senior Seminar 3 hours  

Because the study of chemistry provides students with both the knowledge of the composition, properties and transformations of chemicals and the ability to analyze, synthesize and quantitate, chemistry is a science central to all other scientific fields. The primary mission of the Chemistry major at Columbia College is to prepare students for employment in the chemical industry or in chemical education by providing them with a clear understanding of the underlying principles of chemistry and the ability to use analytical skills to produce this insight.

Because the principles and theories of chemistry are emphasized in the program, students are also furnished with a strong foundation for graduate and professional study in chemistry or health-related professions.

Students who have completed a degree in Chemistry from Columbia College should possess:

  1. An understanding of the composition, properties and transformations of inorganic and organic chemical substances.
  2. An understanding of chemical principles, models and theories used to rationalize and predict chemical phenomena.
  3. Proficiency in laboratory skills including chemical synthesis, instrumental analysis and quantitative measurement.
  4. The ability to properly observe experiments, record results, and critically interpret those results through the use of mathematical and statistical analysis.
  5. Competence in scientific writing and oral presentations; familiarity with the use of chemical literature.
  6. An understanding of the importance of ethics and values in their professional lives.
  7. The proper background for employment in chemistry related technical, industrial or educational fields.
  8. The foundation to continue graduate study in chemistry-related fields or professional health-related programs.

Environmental Science

Chairperson

Frank Somer, Ph.D.

Full-Time Faculty

Christopher Babayco, Ph.D.
Alan James, Ph.D.
Nathan Means, Ph.D.
Rie Sasaki, Ph.D.
Frank Somer, Ph.D.
Kent Strodtman, Ph.D.
Peggy Wright, Ph.D.

Day Campus Course Rotation Schedule

   

Culminating Experience Course

ENVS 490 - Senior Seminar 1 hour  

The Environmental Science major is a science based course of study that focuses on the natural environment and man’s interactions and use of its resources. Students examine the structure and function of natural systems and develop techniques and skills that will allow them to work in the field of natural resources.

A degree in Environmental Science can lead to careers in a wide variety of public and private organizations and government agencies. It will also prepare those students who wish to pursue advanced graduate study.

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