A holistic take on the study of life

Two students look at biological examples outside

Biology used to be "you study animals, or plants, or the cell." Today, some of the most innovative insights in Biology involve understanding interactions between the genetic code and the ability of an organism to interact with its environment.
 
This major will expose students to diverse topics spanning the levels of the biological hierarchy, from the gene to the organism to the ecosystem. It encourages cross-disciplinary approaches that integrate biological knowledge to understand living systems from multiple angles. 

You'll be able to answer questions and address problems like "How does this specific genetic mutation affect how an organism functions in the environment," "How does that affect the environment and other organisms," and "How to develop management strategies to encourage ecosystem diversity as a way to adapt to environmental changes?"

  • About this major
  • Curriculum
About this major

The Biology Department offers a 16 credit Plant Identification & Assessment certificate to compliment this degree.

Curriculum

Students will participate in experiential learning opportunities, including field trips and laboratory exercises and will have the chance to learn from outside experts.  Additionally, all students complete their degree with a full-year, research-based capstone project with a faculty member in their area of interest. 

In addition, you can become involved in related clubs like FLC’s student chapter of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), FLC Bee Club, SEEDS Ecology Club, Pre-Health Club, and the Society for Advancing Chicanos/Native Americans in Science (SACNAS). You can also gain experience through work with our departmental resources, including the greenhouse, herbarium, and animal care facility.



Ryan Schwartz, Associate Professor of Biology

"Integrative Biology allows students to combine knowledge from the biological, quantitative, and physical sciences. This program is tailored to prepare students for advanced science careers including biological research, medicine, and graduate/professional school."

Ryan Schwarz
Associate Professor of Biology

What can you do with an Integrative Biology degree?

Students who receive a Bachelor of Science Degree in Integrative Biology will be prepared for these opportunities:

  • Preparing students for graduate programs:
    • Veterinary medicine
    • Ecology & evolutionary biology
    • Animal biology
    • Plant biology
    • General biology
  • Academia
  • Natural resource fields at higher level
  • Government agencies
  • Natural resource management
  • Agricultural development with federal agencies like USDA