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Biology

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Biology

Valuing diversity, instilling wonder, and preparing scholars

Welcome to the Biology Department in the Pryor-England Center for Science and Engineering. We hope you are considering Harding for your undergraduate studies. Members of our faculty have a variety of specialty training and provide a wide range of courses.

We offer degree programs designed to prepare students for post-graduate work in most biological fields, such as cell and molecular biology, ecology, genetics and marine biology. Many of our students attend professional programs in areas such as medicine, pharmacology, biotechnology and forensic science.

We work to make a supportive student-learning environment and provide excellent teaching in a Christian setting. The Center for Science and Engineering uses current technology in labs and classrooms.

Harding is located near the Ozark Mountains in a region of America steeped in culture, with abundant waterfalls, caverns and outdoor adventure — a rich environment for the aspiring biologist. We welcome you to visit our campus.

 

Our Mission

The Department of Biology provides Harding University students the opportunity to explore the diversity of life on earth from a variety of scientific perspectives, to develop a sense of God-given responsibility to be good stewards of that life, and to prepare for careers that build on an appreciation of the biological sciences. In pursuit of this mission, the faculty will:

Program Learning Outcomes

BIOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE: Students will demonstrate a knowledge of biology consistent with coursework and experiences during their time at Harding University.

  • Core Competencies:
    • Demonstrate knowledge that compares favorably to national programs
    • Place new information and applications in the context of foundational theories of biology

SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATION: Students will assimilate scientific information to communicate biological concepts, processes, and conclusions at a professional level.

  • Core Competencies:
    • Locate, evaluate and properly cite information from peer-reviewed journals, scientific reports and online databases
    • Compile biological data and theory concerning a current biological question into a professional level communication in which they explain the data and theory
    • Communicate the strengths and limitation of the biological sciences and how scientific evidence is used to shape discussions of issues within the broader culture

SCIENTIFIC PROCESS: Students will describe and demonstrate the process of science.

  • Core Competencies
    • Develop biologically-focused questions based on current theory
    • Develop appropriate conclusions using support from both qualitative and quantitative analyses
    • Describe and evaluate participation in the process of science

QUANTITATIVE REASONING: Students will understand and interpret statistics and its contribution(s) to biological conclusions. Students will employ the use of models and/or simulations as a method of scientific reasoning.

  • Core Competencies
    • Employ the use of statistics, models and simulation to generate biological conclusions

SCIENCE AND FAITH: Students will describe and explore in a thoughtful, humble manner the interface of science and religion.

  • Core Competencies
    • Integrate science and faith into a God-centered worldview
Recent News
  • Congratulations to all the students who presented at the Arkansas INBRE conference in Fayetteville, Ark., and at the Southeast Regional IDeA conference in San Juan, PR in November 2021. The Biology Department has 6 students present at these conferences, including Claire Burton who was selected to give an oral presentation at the Arkansas INBRE conference, and Alicen Wilcox who won "Best Student Presentation" at the Southeast Regional IDeA conference!
  • Dr. Patrick Ruhl and the Gilliam Biological Research Station were featured on the local news for efforts to involve students in field experiences and research.

Contact Information


Biology Department
501-279-4459
biology@harding.edu

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At Harding University, you'll have the opportunity to be transformed academically, relationally and spiritually so you're prepared to change the world.

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