Chemical and Biological Sciences
College of Science, Math, and Nursing
Faculty
Dr. James Marshall, Chair
Dr. Sean Beckmann
Dr. Matthew Bork
Dr. Deborah Breiter
Dr. William Doria
Dr. Troy Skwor
Dr. Gidget Tay
The Chemical and Biological Sciences Department offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry, as well as Bachelor of Arts degrees in Biology and Chemistry, and minors in both Biology and Chemistry. The Bachelor of Arts degrees provide a solid background in Chemistry or Biology while allowing students to fully explore other disciplines provided in a liberal arts setting. It is especially appropriate for high school science teachers, sales and management personnel at chemical companies (with appropriate business courses), or those interested in patent law. The Bachelor of Science in Biology offers students the opportunity to explore coursework in one of three tracks: Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ecology and Evolution, or Organismal Biology. The Chemistry program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS), allowing the department to offer an ACS-Certified Bachelor of Science degree option in both Chemistry and Biochemistry. The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry includes a mixture of classes from both the Biology and Chemistry programs.
Prospective majors usually begin their study of Biology, Biochemistry or Chemistry in their first year. However, transfer students who have completed their first or second years may be able to obtain a degree in four years if they have been following a science-track major. Emphasis on laboratory work allows students to apply theory-based lecture material while learning basic laboratory skills and using modern instrumentation and scientific computer software. An undergraduate research project is required of all majors, during which students could either work with a faculty member on campus or take advantage of summer opportunities at major research universities or in industry. Those students seeking a Bachelor of Science degree who intend to pursue an advanced degree in the chemical or biological sciences are strongly encouraged to take a foreign language.
The Chemical and Biological Sciences Department also offers courses designed for the non-science major, such as “Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology”, “Biology of Sports and Exercise”, “Chemistry in Our Environment”, and “Introduction to Geology”. These courses complement fields such as athletics, business, education, psychology, political science, and allied health while providing students with a foundation for making informed decisions as citizens.
Career Opportunities
Rockford University students earning a degree in Biology, Biochemistry or Chemistry are especially well-prepared for graduate school, medical/professional school, or careers in forensic science, environmental science, the chemical industry, biotechnology, genetic counseling, and pharmaceutical sales, along with other health-related fields. Many of our students have gone on to become physicians, dentists, veterinarians, medical technologists or pharmacists. Still others have become secondary teachers through our state of Illinois-approved program for Biology or Chemistry teachers. Many students combine a Biology, Chemistry or Biochemistry major with a minor in business, psychology or a foreign language to prepare for careers in science or health-related fields. Careers in environmental management and conservation exist through business and governmental agencies. Private industry uses trained scientists in areas such as sales, management, research and development, and scientific writing. Graduates have career opportunities as educators in colleges and universities, in primary and secondary schools, as well as in museums, zoos, aquariums and nature centers. Careers are available that link these sciences to other disciplines, such as art, law, ethics and economics.
Degree Requirements
The Chemical & Biological Sciences faculty finds that, in addition to the courses listed below, course work in advanced writing, oral communication, ethics and other non-science fields enhances learning in the science major. Therefore, we strongly encourage our students to broaden their education by taking courses in these areas.