Biology w/ concentration in Science Communication

Communicate Biology

This concentration within the Biology major is for students not intending to become professional biologists, but instead are interested in applying biology concepts to other professions, such as middle or high school teaching, or public communication, etc.

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Opportunities for majors in Biology with a concentration in Science Communication

https://www.muw.edu/scimath/Biology%20Scholarships
There are various biology scholarships offered by the Department available to current Biology w/concentration in Science Communication majors. Most of these scholarships are available to all students, including international students.
https://www.muw.edu/scimath/Science%20Communication%20and%20Career%20Development
Our graduates in Biology w/concentration in Science Communication are well prepared for the next step in their professional lives. Students can continue on to the accelerated MAT program, which allows them to teach Biology in middle and high schools, or can enter various professions requiring critical thinking skills and a broad knowledge of natural systems.
https://www.muw.edu/scimath/Study%20Abroad
Study abroad is life-changing and essential for the modern student. Study abroad creates global awareness, enhances academic learning, develops leadership skills, adds to personal growth, and can help students advance their careers.

Accelerated MAT

The concentration in Science Communication provides a pathway for students interested in a career in teaching Biology at the middle school or high school levels.

In their final semester of their junior year, students will be prepared to apply to enter the Accelerated Master of Arts (MAT) in Teaching program at The W, where they can take up to four graduate classes as part of their undergraduate degree. Upon earning their Bachelor’s degree, passing the Praxis II exam in the subject area, and being accepted into the MAT program, they immediately qualify for a temporary 3-year teaching license and can be hired as a full-time Biology teacher in grades 7-12. After finishing the MAT internship year, they will receive a renewable 5-year teaching license. Completing the MAT program qualifies teachers for a Class AA license and a higher salary. Students are also well prepared to enter other alternate route pathways, including Teach for America and Mississippi Teacher Corps. The concentration on its own does not lead to licensure; acceptance into an MAT program or another alternate route pathway is required.

Master of Arts in Teaching Program

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Biology, BS - concentration in Science Communication

This information is presented for informational purposes. In the event of a discrepancy between this page and the Undergraduate Bulletin, the Bulletin should always be used.

General Education Curriculum

In keeping with The W's Mission, the General Education Program provides students with the skills, knowledge, and values they need to become independent, productive members of society in our continually changing world.

The W's General Education Program provides a foundation in the liberal arts that includes knowledge in the historical, literary, aesthetic, scientific, and cultural traditions that shape the world, and fosters skills that allow students to become civically responsible life-long learners ready to adapt to new challenges.

All students who complete the Mississippi University for Women general education program will demonstrate:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Effective Communication
  • Cultural Literacy
  • Quantitative & Technology Skills
  • Understanding of Self, Global Societies, & the Natural World
  • Life-Long Learning

View General Education Requirements

Major Requirements

  • BSB 141 - Human Anatomy & Physiology I (w/lab)
  • BSB 1421 - Human Anatomy & Physiology II (w/lab)
  • BSB 151 - General Biology I
  • BSB 151L - General Biology I Laboratory
  • BSB 152 - General Biology II
  • BSB 152L - General Biology II Laboratory
  • PSC 111 - General Chemistry I
  • PSC 111L - General Chemistry I Laboratory
  • PSC 112 - General Chemistry II
  • PSC 112L - General Chemistry II Laboratory
  • PS 109 - General Physical Sciences (w/lab)
  • BSM 131 - General Microbiology
  • BSM 131L - General Microbiology Laboratory
  • BSB 230 - General Genetics
  • BSB 251 - General Botany
  • BSB 252 - General Zoology
  • BSB 304 - Research Methods
  • BSB 446 - Evolutionary Biology
  • BS 400 - Senior Seminar
  • IS 105 - Social Studies Education and Praxis Lab
  • Two MA courses at the 113-level or higher.

Additionally

  • Four semesters of SM 100 Science/Mathematics Seminar (Students are required to pass four semesters of SM 100, except for transfer students entering with 60 or more transfer hours who are required to pass three semesters of SM 100.)
  • Additional general electives as required to reach 124 semester hours.
  • 2.0 Major GPA required

    2.0 Departmental GPA required

    Comprehensive Exit Exam

    Exit Questionnaire

Bachelor of Science Requirements

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree must complete the following courses in their academic program:

  • 8 semester hours of Laboratory Science
  • 3 semester hours of Mathematics MA 113 (or higher)
  • 6 semester hours of Science and/or Mathematics
  • 3 semester hours of additional mathematics above MA 113 or computer applications/programming course

A total of 20 hours is required, and students may not double count credit hours in the above categories.

All the B.S. requirements are met by students completing the Biology w/concentration in Science Communication major requirements listed above. No additional courses are needed.

Total Hours Required for a BS in Biology with concentration in Science Communication: 124 Semester Hours