Biology Department Minors

Biology Minor

PEAKS | Natural Sciences & Mathematics |

Minor Requirments (17-20 credits):

Students who wish to certify to teach biology as a second teaching field must complete 20 credits of biology including this minor. In such a case, this minor should include:

Students must also complete the requirements of a first teaching field (major) in another content area that is a state approved College of Idaho program, and the education minor in the Professional PEAK in preparation for the internship year. Please check with the Education Department for specifics.

Student learning outcomes

  • Critical thinking
  • Analytical skills
  • Problem solving in sciences
  • Written communication skills
  • Understanding of core biological principles
  • Understanding the nature and methodologies of science

Health Professions Studies Minor

PEAKS | Professional Studies & Enhancements |

The Health Professions Studies Minor prepares students for entry into a variety of Health Professions programs. Several tracks are offered; thus, students may choose the track that fits most closely with their professional goals.

Minor Core Requirements (12 credits):

This minor requires the following core of courses in addition to the specific courses listed for each track:

Minor Tracks:

Although requirements for school admission are similar for most schools, there are some important differences. Thus, the student should check specific requirements for prospective schools.

Pre-Med Track

The track includes 31-36 credits as follows:

Pre-Dental Track

The track includes 31-36 credits as follows:

 

Pre-Veterinary Track

The minor includes 27-30 credits as follows:

Pre-Optometry Track

The track includes 37-40 credits as follows:

 

Pre-Physician Assistant Track

The track includes 25 credits as follows:

Pre-Pharmacy Track

The track includes 35-37 credits as follows:

 

Pre-Physical Therapy Track

The track consists of 38-40 credits as follows:

Pre-Occupational Therapy Track

The track consists of 30-31 credits as follows:

 

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students will complete pre-requisite courses for graduate/professional program of interest.
  • Students will gain research or internship experience in their area of professional interest, further preparing them for a professional program in the field.
  • Students will have a grounding in the biological and physical sciences.

 

Human Biology Minor

PEAKS | Natural Sciences & Mathematics |

The Human Biology minor is designed for students desiring to better understand human biology.

Minor Requirements:

Student learning outcomes

  • Critical thinking
  • Analytical skills
  • Problem solving in sciences
  • Written communication skills
  • Understanding the biological basis of human wellness and disease

Technical and Analytical Skills in the Natural Sciences Minor

PEAKS | Professional Studies & Enhancements |

The Technical & Analytical Skills minor consists of 20 - 22 credits and a suite of courses that emphasize technical and analytical skills (statistics, computer applications and programming, Geographic Information Systems, Web management. course-specific laboratory techniques) in the Natural Sciences. The minor is designed for all students who plan to enter technical fields or graduate programs in the Natural Sciences. The minor is NOT recommended for students planning to enter professional school (medical, dental, etc.).

Minor Requirements (20-22 credits):

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Computer-based skills (software applications and/or computer programming)
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Analytical Reasoning
  • Communication skills
  • Understanding of the scientific method

Associated Minors

Natural Sciences Minor

PEAKS | Natural Sciences & Mathematics |

The Natural Science Minor provides opportunities for students to sample widely among the natural sciences to gain knowledge of both physical and life sciences. Because much of our understanding of the natural world is framed quantitatively, the study of mathematics is included. In addition to studying how natural science is a way of knowing, students include coursework involving the relationship of science to other forms of knowledge, culture, or society.

Minor Requirements (13 credits):

A total of at least 13 credits to include at least one lab course and the following:

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Critical Thinking
  • Analytical Reasoning
  • Quantitative and Qualitative Problem Solving
  • Written Communication
  • Sharpen student understanding of the methodology and limits of science
  • Increase student scientific literacy in both the physical and life sciences
  • Apply scientific knowledge in the broader context of the liberal arts