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Biological and Chemical Sciences
The majors in biological and chemical sciences provide a foundation in the fundamental areas of biology, the study of life, and chemistry, the study of matter, and offer electives in a variety of advanced subjects ranging from the interface of biology with psychology to the interface of chemistry with physics. They have a special emphasis, though, on the areas integrating chemistry and biology. All courses stress the scientific method to achieve an understanding of the natural world. The Senior Capstone courses (BCS 301, 402) offer all majors the opportunity to develop intellectual independence and the ability to think creatively. Students completing these majors will be prepared for a variety of careers in biology, medicine, biotechnology, environmental science, and chemistry. In addition, these students will be well equipped for advanced, specialized study in any health professions school or in graduate school.

Tom Vawter,
Chair, Biological and Chemical Sciences

MEET OUR FACULTY
 

BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL SCIENCES: 
BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

The number of courses required for the major is the equivalent of 16 courses of 3-4 semester hours (61-62 semester hours); at least 6 of these courses are at the 300-level or above. Certain exceptional internships may fulfill up to four semester hours of credit toward the major.
 

Biology professor Tom Vawter with studentsBIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL SCIENCES: BIOLOGY

The number of courses required for the major is the equivalent of 15 courses of 3-4 semester hours (58-60 semester hours); at least 6 of these courses are at the 300-level or above. Certain exceptional internships may fulfill up to four semester hours of credit toward the major.

BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL SCIENCES: CHEMISTRY

The number of courses required for the major is the equivalent of 16 courses of 3-4 semester hours (62-63 semester hours); at least 6 of these courses are at the 300-level or above. Certain exceptional internships may fulfill up to four semester hours of credit toward the major.
 

CONCENTRATIONS

Research vessel Haendel on Cayuga LakeBiochemistry and Molecular Biology: Students choosing this concentration will 
specialize with courses in genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, physical 
chemistry and ecology, with related courses in calculus and physics. Advanced 
courses pursue topics in biology and chemistry that allow for focus on areas of 
individual interest. 

Biology: Students choosing this concentration will specialize with courses in 
genetics, ecology, taxonomy, morphology, physiology, molecular and cellular 
biology and ecological and behavioral biology with related courses in 
mathematics.

Chemistry: Students choosing this concentration will take core courses in 
physical and inorganic chemistry and instrumental analysis, with related courses 
in calculus and physics. Advanced courses pursue topics like biochemistry, 
medicinal chemistry and others that allow for focus on areas of individual interest.
 

INTERNSHIPS AND STUDY ABROAD

Internships are a great way for students interested in scientific fields to determine 
if they would like to pursue careers in medicine, research, public policy or forge a 
new path. Wells alumnae who are established leaders in their fields often provide 
internships opportunities for current students. The following is a sample of 
internships in the BCS area held by Wells students in recent years:

• Oakland Zoo, Oakland, CA
• Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL
• Cornell University Large Animal Clinic, Ithaca, NY
• New England Aquarium, Boston, MA
• Syracuse University department of Chemistry, Syracuse, NY
• Upstate veterinary hospital, Saratoga Springs, NY
• Canandaigua Wine Co., Canandaigua, NY
• U.C.L.A. Medical Center (neurosurgery), Los Angeles, CA 
• Cayuga Lake Watershed Network, Aurora, NY

Want to perform marine biology research off the Caribbean or Hawaiian coasts? 
How about discovering the effects of penicillin in London where it was first 
discovered? Wells makes it possible. BCS majors can pursue programs around 
the world. Check out our off-campus study programs!
 

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Explore your scientific interests further with out-of-the-
classroom opportunities for learning and fun!
Check out:

American Indians in Science and 
Engineering Society (AISES)
Science Colloquium Series
Green Geese (environmental club)
Tutoring in the Sciences


 
 
 
 
L ast updated 06/25/2009
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