Biology is the study of life in all its fascinating forms, ranging from molecular studies of unicellular organisms at local sites to the global impacts visited upon entire species or populations as a result of natural and man-made events. The Biology Department's approach to these studies is in line with Mercyhurst College's overall mission of service as we strive to complete research that is of interest and value to the community. We offer various concentrations that allow our students a variety of options as to which course they would like their biological education to take, and these include: Ecosystem Conservation, Neuroscience, and Medical Technology concentrations. Those who are interested in the Pre-Health track will be interested to know that Mercyhurst has partnered with the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) to offer accelerated programs in both pharmacy and medicine. Individuals interested in teaching will find that the Biology Department has partnered with the Mercyhurst Education Department to offer an accelerated program that allows a student to earn a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Master's degree in Education in just five years.
The primary goal of the Department of Biology is to provide thorough and basic training in the broad field of biology through a forward-looking and comprehensive curriculum. This is accomplished through instruction and laboratory experience in each of the principle areas within biology (organismal biology, environmental biology, and molecular biology) and supporting coursework in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. In conjunction with Mercyhurst College's liberal arts tradition, we strive to develop critical-thinking skills in our graduates that will separate them from graduates of other programs. Our students are also encouraged to examine the global implications of research in all the scientific disciplines, preparing them to answer the difficult questions that we face today about what the future might hold. Our program is designed to provide students with the means to secure fulfilling employment or continue their education at the graduate and professional level.
