“Doing Science”
At the University of Providence, we believe in “doing science.” We feel it is particularly important to allow our students to get hands-on experience in their field of study. A guiding philosophy for the Biology program is to encourage and support undergraduate research. At a large University, students work on their professors’ research; at the University of Providence, our professors work with you on your research. We also provide students a variety of internship opportunities, allowing them to get practical experience in their area of interest.
Career Preparation
Virtually every biology related field will grow faster than average between 2014 and 2024. The health related professions are the fastest growing field with growth expected to be much faster than most fields between 2014 and 2024.
Students will learn to:
- Apply the scientific process to solving problems
- Distinguish between credible and non-credible sources of information
- Interpret, analyze and evaluate information collected by doing research
- Work effectively in collaborative team investigations
- Present research findings at scientific conferences
- Evaluate ethical issues related to science and technology
Potential Career Opportunities include:
- Physician
- Dentist
- Veterinarian
- Pharmacist
- Physical Therapist
- Ecologist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Environmental Biologist
- Teacher/Professor
- Researcher
Departmental Philosophy
To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world. At the University of Providence, we are committed to forming women and men of competence, conscience, and compassion who have learned from reflecting upon their experiences of being for and with others in an atmosphere of freedom of inquiry, belief, and humility. The product of these teaching, research, and value-based activities will be a challenging, dynamic, and stimulating environment that will transform your life.
Here are some of the examples of how we are “DOING SCIENCE” at the University of Providence
The University partners with many entities to offer students numerous internship opportunities.
- Murdock Undergraduate Research Program
Sixteen students attended the exclusive regional conference and four students presented their undergraduate research. The Conference plays an important part in helping foster a regional climate for faculty and student scientific research.
Students attend and present their undergraduate research at this state-wide conference
- 2014 Best Poster Presentation by an Undergraduate
David Kemp, University of Providence
“Estimating Population Density of the White-Tailed Jackrabbit Lepus townsendii in Select Central Montana Agricultural Fields”
- 2014 Recipients of Student Research Grants
- Allison M. Adams, University of Providence (Dr. Alex Shafer, advisor)
“The Effects of Detraining on Collegiate Softball Player’s Performance Indicators” - Katherine J. Martini, University of Providence (Dr. Chrissie Carpenter, advisor)
“The Effects of Generated vs. Store-bought Alcohol in Blood & Breath”
Click here to read an article from the Great Falls Tribune about how our undergraduate students are prospering in the science program at the University of Providence.
Curriculum
Pre-Biology Major Preparation 
Students who enter the biology program must take a placement test. Placement tests are administered by the Center for Academic Excellence. These tests do not affect admission; however, the results are essential for proper placement into English and Math classes.
Students with strong high school backgrounds are urged to complete their basic preparation in general chemistry and mathematics during their freshman year. Students with weak mathematics preparation (as shown by placement test) should make up this deficiency by completing the appropriate courses prior to matriculation into the program. Biology majors should see their faculty advisor early to discuss degree requirements and plan their schedules.
Biology Degree Requirements
BIO 151 General Biology I
BIO 152 General Biology II
BIO 200 Ecology
BIO 221 Cell and Molecular Biology
BIO 311 Genetics
BIO 499 Senior Thesis
CHM 111 General Chemistry I
CHM 112 General Chemistry II
CHM 261 Organic Chemistry I
CHM 262 Organic Chemistry II
MTH 241 Calculus I
MTH 252 Statistical Methods for the Sciences
Completion of 16 credits in one of the Required Specialized Concentrations (see below)
(Health Professions, Physiology, or Wildlife Ecology)
Total Credits for Major 60
CHM 401 Biochemistry
And 12 credits from the following courses
BIO 380 Microbiology
BIO 400 Immunology
BIO 405 Developmental Biology
BIO 411 Cell Biology
BIO 420 Virology
BIO 492 Special Topics in Biology
PHS 300 Classical & Modern Physics II
BIO 251 Anatomy & Physiology I AND
BIO 252 Anatomy & Physiology II
CHM 401 Biochemistry I
And 8 credits from the following courses
BIO 380 Microbiology
BIO 492 Special Topics in Biology
EXS 305 Exercise Physiology
HPE 315 Kinesiology & Biomechanics
PHS 300 Classical & Modern Physics II*
BIO 422 Conservation Ecology
And 12 credits from the following courses
BIO 302 Ornithology
BIO 304 Mammalogy
BIO 320 Aquatic Ecology
BIO 350 Global Information Systems
BIO 380 Microbiology
BIO 492 Special Topics in Biology
Health Professions Degree Requirements
Faculty
Diane Lund, PhD
Jennifer Swanson, PharmD
Roberta Newbury, PhD
Jessia Martin, MS
