College of SciencesBiology BA and BS

Online OrientationProgram Information Meeting

COS 46219-v.11302016

WELCOME

College Introduction: Welcome by the Dean

Dean Dr. Sue Fitzgerald

In the College of Sciences: • You learn from faculty who are committed

to quality teaching, engrossed in relevant research yet accessible to students.

• You learn alongside committed students about the world of science, all preparing for exciting professional futures.

COME & EXPLORE WITH US!

Welcome to the College of Sciences. I'm Sue Fitzgerald, Interim Dean.The College of Sciences is the place to explore your understanding of the physical world through the study of biology, chemistry, physics and ecology.If your interest is in technology, the College of Sciences offers courses in computer programming, writing web and phone apps, networking, cybersecurity, and much more.Or, if you love mathematics, our math and statistics programs will provide you with the tools you need to solve problems in any job situation.So, why study math, science, or computing?Do you aspire to find a cure for cancer?Do you want to protect our nation's infrastructure from cyberattacks?Or, are you the person who will calculate trajectories for all those angry birds?The foundations of math, science and computing are logical thinking, methodical approaches to solving problems, and drawing conclusions from the objective examination of evidence.These foundational problem solving skills will serve you well, no matter what life and career choices you make.We welcome you to the College of Sciences and we invite you to follow your curiosity.

Learning Outcomes

Gain an understanding of the College of Sciences Understand how academic advising can help you reach your

goals Obtain an overview of your intended major Become aware of transfer processes and policies Learn about registration & academic planning

Academic Advising

Role of an Advisor

Academic advisors are available to help students with questions or issues while they progress through their degree program. Academic advisors can assist with: Course/registration questions, Petitions, appeals, exceptions, etc., Graduation planning, Resources and referrals, Exploring enrichment and engagement opportunities, and Other concerns.

Who Is My Advisor?

You can view the following information on the eServices:

Advisor: Danforth, Pauline(651) 793-1431Pauline.Danforth@metrostate.edu

Classification: SR

Student Holds: 0006-Assessment TestStudent Holds: 0013-Did Not Attend Orientation

College of Sciences advising contacts

COS Advising Center 651-793-1439

cos@metrostate.edu

Advising Center website link TBD

Birtukan Abebe Academic advisor birtukan.abebe@metrostate.eduPauline Danforth Academic advisor pauline.danforth@metrostate.eduPing Wang Academic Advisor ping.wang@metrostate.edu

Advising Relationship

Communication is key to the success of a meaningful professional relationship Reach out to your advisor as soon as possible Help your advisor know you as a whole person by your sharing your

interests, skills and life goals

You and your advisor share the same goal: your success!

Characteristics of STEM Majors

Mathematics: College Algebra is required to begin studies in the majors Sequential coursework: Math and science courses must be taken in

sequence. Nearly all major courses have prerequisites Residency requirement: Each major has its own residency and upper

division requirement in addition to the university-wide residency and upper division requirement.

Major admission: Students are in pre-major status until: Major prerequisites are completed Undergraduate Program Declaration form is submitted and approved GPA requirements are met – each major has its own requirement

Why Choose a STEM Major?

The College of Sciences is created in response to the needs of job market demand for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workers. STEM occupations are expected to grow by 17% between 2008 to 2018; others

occupations are expected to grow by only 9.8% STEM workers earn 26% higher wages College degrees are required Unemployment rate is half of the national average

U.S. Department of Commerce, Economics and Statistics Administration

Majors, Minors & Department Overview

Mathematics651-793-1439

Information & Computer Sciences651-793-1471

Natural Sciences651-793-1439

Majors Minors Majors Minors/Certificate Majors MinorsBS, AppliedMathematics

AppliedMathematics

BS, Computer Science Computer Forensics BA or BS, Biology

Biology

BS, Mathematics Teaching

Applied Statistic BS, Computer Information Technology

Cybersecurity BS, Chemistry

Chemistry

BAS, Computer Application Development

BS, Environmental Science

Physics

BAS, Computer Forensics

BS, LifeScience Teaching

What is Biology?

Biology is the study of life, from the simplest cells to the most complex ecosystems. You develop an understanding of your own life and appreciation for your connection to the natural worldBiologists find employment in a wide range of fields including health care, food, pharmacology, agriculture, public health, biotechnology, and natural resource management. Many biology graduates continue on to professional and graduate programs in health care, research and education.

Components of the Biology BA and BS majors

1. General education and liberal studies courses2. Biology major prerequisite courses3. Biology major foundation courses4. Biology major upper division core areas Cell Biology and Genetics Ecology and Evolution Physiology and Organismal Biology

5. Capstone and upper division major electives, 10 credits/ courses including one course at the 400 level

Please refer to the Biology BA and BS major planning sheets found online:http://www.metrostate.edu/msweb/explore/cas/departments/naturalsci/biology/

Bachelor of Arts (BA) foundation courses

General Biology 111 and 112 General Chemistry 111 and 112 Statistics, Applied Calculus or Calculus Physics with a requirement of college algebra or calculus

All foundation courses must include a laboratory experience.The above courses have a prerequisite of College Algebra.

Bachelor of Science (BS) foundation courses

General Biology 111 and 112 General Chemistry 111 and 112 Applied Calculus or Calculus 1 and 2 Calculus Physics Organic Chemistry 1 And either Organic Chemistry 2 or Calculus Physics 2

All foundation courses must include a laboratory experience.

Biology Major (BA and BS) core area courses

Students must declare and be accepted to the major before enrolling in courses in the core areas: Cell Biology and Genetics Physiology and Organismal Biology Ecology and Evolution

You need one class from each category with laboratory, 5 credits each, 15 credits.Core Courses cannot be fulfilled with lower division classes (100/200 level) courses.

Upper Division electivesBiology B.A. and B.S.

• Students choose an additional 10 credits from the upper division (300 level) biology course offerings.

• At least one course must be at the 400 level.• See the Major Checklist and the Class

Schedule for specific course offerings.

Major Declaration steps

1. Complete the prerequisite and foundation courses with grades of at least C-.

2. Complete the e-form Undergraduate Program Declaration Form when you are in your last semester of foundation coursework.

3. If the above is met, the Chairperson of the Natural Sciences department will review and approve you for the major.

4. Take the Biology Program Assessment Survey.5. When these steps are complete, you can register for 300 level

biology courses.

The process usually takes about two weeks!

Biology Major Declaration eForm

This eForm can be accessed:

www.metrostate.edu

Student Services/ Academic Advising/Declare Your Program

College of Sciences eForm

Transfer Coursework

DARS shows how your coursework transfers to meet the following requirements: General Education/Liberal Studies Credits completed towards graduation Total credits accepted for transfer Upper-division credits

Major Checklist: Upon admission to the university, meet with your advisor to review how your

courses transfer to MSU and meet the biology foundation and major course requirements.

Updating your academic record

This form is necessary if you:• had courses in progress when

you were admitted to MSU• take courses at another

college while you are a student at MSU

Registration at Two Schools

The Consortium Agreement is required if you receive financial aid and are taking courses from another university.

This form is in your Eservices under Financial Aid.

First registration for transfer studentsIf you have completed an Associate of Arts degree and it does not appear on your DARS, please inform your advisor, because if you have an AA degree, your 10 General Education goal areas are complete.

Most likely you will still need upper division non-science credits to reach the 40 UD required credits. Explore course options.

Based on your DARS, continue with math, biology and chemistry sequences.

Ask questions. Let your advisor know if you believe a transfer course is equivalent to a foundation or major course.

First term registration tips for all students

Thoroughly understand your DARS: instruction are available @AskUs Holds – check your DARS for holds that prevent you from registering Register for math course according to assessment score or continue your math sequence Read the notes section of the Class Schedule for prerequisite information Get onto the waitlist if the class you want is full Check to see if you have met the Upper Division Liberal Studies requirement:

http://www.metrostate.edu/assets/Documents/academic-document-assets/GELS.pdf Start major prerequisites as soon as possible Work with your advisor to create a long-term academic plan

Thank you for choosing the College of Sciences

The College of Sciences staff and faculty are committed to the success of each student.

We look forward to further questions in our in-person group advising workshop or in an individual appointment with you.

Thank you!