Department of Natural Sciences
Welcome
The overarching goal of the Biology Program is to provide graduates with a fundamental knowledge of Biology. The program provides the students with a broad background in the biological sciences that explores its full length and breadth and provides students with the opportunity to conduct a required undergraduate research project. In addition to entering professional schools, Biology graduates may be employed by various state and federal agencies (EPA, CDC, and FDA), industries and other health professions. Academic and career advisement is provided as an integral component of the program to prepare students for successful completion of the biology degree and for related careers including pre-professional pursuits (pre-dentistry, pre-medicine, pre-pharmacy and pre-veterinary).
The Biology program consists of a diverse group of faculty, many of whom are activity engaged in research and they bring a wealth of information into the classroom. The teacher to student ration is about 20:1 in most classes, which lends itself to more interactive learning. Students get to know their professors and professors their students on a more personal basis. The undergraduate curriculum emphasizes biological principles and concepts, which enables students not only to think critically and develop analytical and reasoning skills but also to communicate effectively. Students are thus prepared not only for a variety of career fields but also to become informed and productive citizens.
A variety of laboratory and field equipment are available for teaching and for faculty and students research. These include: a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) thermal cycler, Real Time PCR, DNA and Protein Gel Electrophoresis equipment, Photo Documentation Unit, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent (ELISA) Imaging System, Nano Spectrophotometer, High Speed Centrifuge, Visible Ultraviolet (UV) Spectrophotometer, Fluorescence and Inverted Microscopes, Ultrasonic Cell Disruptor and CO2 Incubators. This equipment provides the students with technical skills, which allow them to be successful in their career endeavors. Albany State University is located in very close proximity to the Flint River, RiverQuarium, and Chehaw Park. These facilities provide excellent opportunities for research and independent study projects. In addition to conducting research at Albany State University, students are strongly encouraged to participate in summer internships regionally, nationally, and internationally.