Biology 2011-2012
Department of Biology
Location: 101 Hayes Building, Phone: 409.880.8262
Chair: Matthew P. Hoch, Associate Professor of Biology
Degree Advisors:
BS Biology and Pre-Clinical Programs: Matthew P. Hoch, Chair and Associate Professor of Biology 409.880.8264; Office: H205-04
BS Environmental Science: Richard C. Harrel, Professor of Biology 409.880.8255; Office: H205-10
BS Medical Technology*: Randall G. Terry, Assistant Professor of Biology 409.880.7975; Office: H205-08
(*Degree program phased out effective Spring 2012, contact advisor)
MS Biology: Matthew P. Hoch, Chair and Associate Professor of Biology 409.880.8256; Office: H101
Biology Mission Statement:
The Biology Department has three missions. First, the overall mission is to produce graduates with a broad-based knowledge of biology and the capacity of applying their education and critically evaluating emerging scientific knowledge. Second, the department is committed to providing research opportunities for faculty, undergraduate, and graduate students. Research and peer-reviewed publication enhance the recognition and prestige of the university and develop contacts and collaborations between Â鶹ÊÓƵ faculty and colleagues elsewhere, which ultimately benefits our graduates. Third, the biology department provides courses that fulfill the laboratory science requirements for many degree plans and for the core curriculum.
The biology program is committed to the laboratory approach to science. Students completing the biology core will have been exposed to all major areas of biology and are allowed the freedom to concentrate on an area of special interest within the major. Sufficient hours of free electives allow a biology major to obtain secondary teaching certification simultaneously. Faculty offices are located in the Hayes Biology Building and in the Science Auditorium. The Dujay Bird Sanctuary in the Big Thicket, the Center for Coastal and Marine Studies at Pleasure Island near Port Arthur, and more remote field sites in the Western Texas desert and Neotropical rainforest and coral reefs of Central America provide opportunity for field-based study.
Areas of faculty expertise and research interests include Animal Behavior, Invertebrate Physiology, Cytogenetics, Biotechnology, Medical Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Toxicology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Limnology, Botany, Tropical Biology, Phylogenetics, Invertebrate Zoology, Parasitology, Ichthyology, Herpetology, Ornithology, and Mammalogy.
Degrees Offered
Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science in Biology -120 hrs
Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Biology -141 hrs
Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Science in Chemistry -148 hrs
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science -120 hrs
Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology* -127 hrs (includes 30 hr equivalence for a 12 month hospital internship) Life Science (Grade 8-12) Teacher Certification -143 hrs (116 hrs BS Biology plus 27 hrs Pedagogy courses) Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Occupational Therapy Pre-Physician's Assistant Minor in Biology
(*Degree program phased out effective Spring 2012, contact advisor)
Graduate
Master of Science in Biology -33 hrs (thesis option); 39 hrs (non-thesis option)
Bachelor of Science -Biology
The Major in Biology supports the departmental mission in that students are exposed to current scientific concepts and principles. Moreover, students spend a significant amount of their educational time in the laboratory or field. By the actual performance of methods and techniques, they can engage in internal research projects or be competitive for external summer research internships. After graduation, they can effectively compete for jobs or move into graduate or professional schools.
As the study of life, Biology requires a thorough understanding of the underlying chemical and physical principles governing all life processes. Lamar students attracted to this field are well equipped to enter the professions of medicine, dentistry or one of the other career paths listed below in this section. Students are equally prepared for environmentally or biotechnology related careers in various governmental agencies, private companies, or academia. A career file is maintained in Room 101 of the Hayes Biology Building to acquaint students with far-ranging career possibilities. Students interested in further education leading to an advanced degree in Biology are also well prepared. Those interested in teaching in secondary education (grades 8 – 12) should consult the section below on B.S. Biology with teaching certificate.
The degree of Bachelor of Science in Biology will be awarded upon the completion of the following requirements:
- General Requirements: See the University Core Curriculum.
- Biology Courses: Biology Core Courses: BIOL 1406, 1407, 2420, 3450, 3470, one invertebrate biology course (BIOL 3460 or 4410), one vertebrate biology course (BIOL 3428, 4408, 4409, 4431, 4440, or 4445), one molecular-cellular biology course: (BIOL 4404 or BIOL 4470), and the capstone course BIOL 4344, which requires students to pass the ETS Major Field Exam in Biology. Biology Electives: any additional 16 semester hours of BIOL at the 3000 4000 level.
- Supporting Sciences: General Chemistry-eight semester hours; Organic Chemistry-eight semester hours; General Physics -eight semester hours; Statistics-four semester hours (fulfills 4 credits of Mathematical Science core)
- Free Electives: Sufficient advanced (3000-4000 level) elective credits to complete a total of 120 semester hours; typically 4 credits.
Recommended Minimum Program of Study – B. S. Biology: The following is a recommended program of study for completion of the B. S. Biology degree plan in the minimum semester hours with the specified option. Additional requirements may be required for specialized areas, i.e. certain minor requirements, preparation for graduate school, certifications, or licensures. Advanced courses (3000-4000 level) should only be taken after 60 credits of study toward the degree; although exceptions can be made when academically in the best interest of the student. Please see a Program Advisor or the Department Chair for advising details.
Bachelor of Science – Biology Bachelor of Science – Biology with Teacher Certification for Grade 8-12 Life Science
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL1301 (Composition I) | 3 | ENGL 1302 (Composition II) | 3 |
| BIOL 1406 (Gen Biology I) | 4 | BIOL 1407 (Gen Biology II) | 4 |
| HIST 1301 (U.S. History I) | 3 | HIST 1302 (U.S. History II) | 3 |
| MATH 2312 (Pre-Calculus) | 3 | Social Science | 3 |
| PEGA | 1 | PHIL 1370 (Philosophy of Knowledge) | 3 |
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL 23__ (Literature) | 3 | COMM 1315 (Public Speaking I) | 3 |
| CHEM 1411 (Gen Chemistry I) | 4 | or Foreign Language | |
| PHYS 1401 (College Physics I) | 4 | CHEM 1412 (Gen Chemistry II) | 4 |
| BIOL 2420 (Microbiology) | 4 | PHYS 1402 (College Physics II) | 4 |
| or PSYC 2471 (Statistics) | BIOL 2420 (Microbiology) | 4 | |
| or PSYC 2471 (Statistics) | |||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CHEM 3411 (Organic Chem. I) | 4 | CHEM 3412 (Organic Chem. II) | 4 |
| BIOL 3470 (Genetics) or BIOL 3450 (General Botany) | 4 | BIOL 3470 (Genetics) or BIOL 3450 (General Botany) | 4 |
| VERTEBRATE COURSE | 4 | VERTEBRATE COURSE | 4 |
| or INVERTEBRATE COURSE | or INVERTEBRATE COURSE | ||
| FINE ARTS | 3 | BIOL 4404 (Molecular Biology)* or BIOLOGY ELECTIVE* | 4 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| BIOL 4344 (Dev. Biol. Thought) or BIOLOGY ELECTIVE* | 3/4 | BIOL 4344 (Dev. Biol. Thought) or BIOLOGY ELECTIVE | 3/4 |
| BIOLOGY ELECTIVE | 4 | ADVANCED ELECTIVE | 4 |
| BIOL 4470 (Cell Biology) or BIOLOGY ELECTIVE | 4 | BIOLOGY ELECTIVE | 4 |
| POLS 2301 (American Govt. I) | 3 | POLS 2302 (American Govt. II) | 3 |
| 14/15 | 14/15 | ||
| *One 4000-level Biology course designated “Scientific Report Writing Intensive”; includes: Experimental Design, Environmental Microbiology, Ecology, Advanced Physiology, Animal Behavior, Molecular Biology, Epidemiology. 120 Degree Minimum Total Hours (51 Upper Level) | |||
Certification to teach Biology can be obtained along with a BS in Biology. Consult with the Biology Department Chair for specific information. A list of Biology courses for certification is available in the departmental office.
Bachelor of Science – Environmental Science
The Major in Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary program concerned with protecting, monitoring, managing, and improving the environment. The degree program combines study in biology, chemistry, geology, engineering and political science in preparing the student for a career with regulatory agencies, industry, consulting firms, or academia. This degree program combines fundamental training in the basic sciences with broad training across several of the traditional disciplines to prepare students for employment or graduate study. An internship is required to integrate academic preparation with actual work experience.
The degree of Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science will be awarded upon completion of the following requirements:
- A. General Requirements: See University Core Curriculum
- Biology: BIOL 1406, 1407, 2420, 4430, 4435, 4460
- Chemistry: CHEM 1411, 1412, 3401, 3411, 4481
- Science and Mathematics: PHYS 1401, 1402; COSC 1371; PSYC 2471; MATH 2376; GEOL 1403, 3390, 4370; CVEN 3310; 3 hours approved electives
- POLS 4390 or BULW 3330
6. Participate in internship BIOL 4300-01
Recommended Minimum Program of Study – B. S. EnvironmentalScience: The following is a recommended program of study for completion of the B. S. Biology degree plan in the minimum semester hours with the specified option. Additional requirements may be required for specialized areas, i.e. certain minor requirements, preparation for graduate school, certifications, or licensures. Advanced courses (3000-4000 level) should only be taken after 60 credits of study toward the degree; although exceptions can be made when academically in the best interest of the student. Please see a Program Advisor or the Department Chair for advising details.
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| BIOL 1406 (Gen. Biology I) | 4 | BIOL 1407 (Gen. Biology II) | 4 |
| CHEM 1411 (Gen. Chemistry I) | 4 | CHEM 1412 (Gen. Chem. II) | 4 |
| ENGL 1301 (Composition I) | 3 | ENGL 1302 (Composition II) | 3 |
| PHIL 1370 (Philosophy of Knowledge) | 3 | COMM 1315 (Public Speaking) | 3 |
| 14 | 14 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| HIST 1301 (U.S. History I) | 3 | HIST 1302 (U.S. History II) | 3 |
| ENGL 23_ _ (Literature) | 3 | COSC 1371 (Microcomputers) | 3 |
| BIOL 2420 (Microbiology) | 4 | GEOL 1403 (Physical Geology) | 4 |
| MATH 2376 (Calculus) or MATH 1345 or MATH 2413 | 3 | MATH 1342 (Statistics) or PSYC 2471 (Stat. Methods) | 3 |
| PEGA (Physical Activity) or MULB (Marching Band) | 1 | FINE ARTS | 3 |
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| POLS 2301 (American Govt. I) | 3 | POLS 2302 (American Govt. II) | 3 |
| CHEM 3401 (Quant. Analysis) | 4 | CHEM 3411 (Organic Chem. I) | 4 |
| GEOL 4370 (Meteorology) | 3 | BIOL 4435 (Toxicology) | 4 |
| POLS 4390 (Environmental Policy) or BULW 3330 (Environ. Law) | 3 | GEOL 3390 (Environmental Geol.) | 3 |
| SOCIAL SCIENCE | 3 | ||
| 16 | 14 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| APPROVED ELECTIVE* or BIOL 4300-01 (Internship) | 3 | APPROVED ELECTIVE* or BIOL 4300-01 (Internship) | 3 |
| PHYS 1401 (College Physics I) | 4 | PHYS 1402 (College Physics II) | 4 |
| BIOL 4460 (Ecology) | 4 | BIOL 4430 (Limnology) | 4 |
| ENGL 3310 (Technical Report Writing) | 3 | CHEM 4481 (Environ. Analysis) | 4 |
| CVEN 3310 (Water Chem. for Environ Eng.) | 3 | ||
| 17 | 15 | ||
| *3000-4000-level course approved by ENVS advisor or Department Chair; recommended are Principles of GIS (GEOL 4301 in Fall) or Conservation Biology (BIOL 4302 in Spring). | |||
120 Degree Minimum Total Hours (45 Upper Level)
Bachelor of Science – Medical Technology*
The Major in Medical Technology* provides the core science courses for medical technology students. In addition, students have the experience during their senior year of learning to apply their knowledge in real-world medical settings. After graduation, they are admirably trained for a career in medicine or research.
The medical technologist performs the laboratory tests required by physicians in order to properly diagnose and treat patients. Most technologists find employment in hospitals, clinics or blood banks. Medical product manufacturers and medical technical sales account for an increasing percent of career opportunities for medical technologist. The degree of Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology* will be awarded upon the completion of the following requirements:
(*Degree program phased out effective Spring 2012, contact advisor)
- General Requirements: See Core Curriculum.
- Multidisciplinary Major: Biology: BIOL 1406 & BIOL 1407 (General Biology I & II), BIOL 2420 (Microbiology), BIOL 3440 (Advanced Physiology), BIOL 3470 (Genetics), BIOL 4405 (Immunology), BIOL 4410 (Parasitology), and either BIOL 4404 (Molecular Biology) or BIOL 4470 (Cell Biology). Chemistry: CHEM 1411 & CHEM 1412 (General Chemistry I & II), CHEM 3411 & 3412 (Organic Chemistry I & II). Physics: PHYS 1401 & PHYS 1412 (General Physics I & II)
- One year internship.(See Fourth Year Clinical Training.)
Recommended Minimum Program of Study – Medical Technology*
The following is a recommended program of study for completion of the B. S. Medical Technology* degree plan in the minimum semester hours with the specified option. Please see the Program Advisor or the Department Chair for details.
Bachelor of Science -Medical Technology*
(*Degree program phased out effective Spring 2012, contact advisor)
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL1301 (Composition I) | 3 | ENGL 1302 (Composition II) | 3 |
| BIOL 1406 (Gen. Biology I) | 4 | BIOL 1407 (Gen. Biology II) | 4 |
| MATH 2312 (Pre-Calculus) | 3 | PHIL 1370 (Philosophy of Knowledge) | 3 |
| HIST 1301 | 3 | HIST 1302 (U.S. History II) | 3 |
| PEGA (1 semester) | 1 | ||
| 13 | 14 | ||
| Summer I | Summer II | ||
| PHYS 1401 (College Physics I) | 4 | PHYS 1402 (College Physics II) | 4 |
| 4 | 4 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| POLS 2301 (American Govt. I) | 3 | POLS 2302 (American Govt. II) | 3 |
| BIOL 2420 (Microbiology) | 4 | ENGL 23_ _ (Literature) | 3 |
| PSYC 2471 (Statistical Methods) | 4 | CHEM 1412 (Gen. Chem. II) | 4 |
| CHEM 1411 (Gen. Chemistry I) | 4 | SOCIAL SCIENCE | 3 |
| COMM 1315 (Public Speaking I) | 3 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CHEM 3411 (Organic Chem. I) | 4 | CHEM 3412 (Organic Chem. II) | 4 |
| BIOL 3440 (Advanced Physiology) | 4 | BIOL 4410 (Parasitology) | 4 |
| BIOL 4405 (Immunology) | 4 | BIOL 4404 (Molecular Biology) or BIOL 3470 (Genetics) | 4 |
| BIOL 3470 (Genetics) or BIOL 4470 (Cell Biology) | 4 | FINE ARTS | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| FOURTH YEAR / CLINCAL YEAR All the above requirements for the degree must be met before a student may be admitted to clinical training, which is 12 consecutive months at a hospital laboratory accredited for teaching by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation of the American Medical Association (AMA). A list of clinical affiliate hospital schools is listed below. This clinical training year is equivalent to 30 credit hours of advanced biology course work. 127 Degree Minimum Total Hours (97 Hours Resident at Lamar + 30 Hours Clinical Year) | |||
| Directors of Medical Technology Programs *Denotes Formal Affiliation | |
|---|---|
| Methodist Hospital* 6565 Fannin-Mail Station 205 Houston, TX 77030 713-790-2599 Program Director: Tatia Feltman, M.Ed., MT(ASCP)SM Medical Director: Abdus Saleem, M.D. | Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital* P.O. Box 5405 Beaumont, TX 77726-5405 409.899.7150 Program Director: Deborah Zink, M.B.A., MT Medical Director: Terry W. Bell, M.D. |
| University of Texas Medical Branch | M.D. Anderson Cancer Center |
| School of Allied Health Sciences | 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Box 037 |
| 301 University Boulevard | Houston, TX 77030 |
| Galveston, TX 77555-1028 | 713.745.1688 |
| 409.880.3055 | 1.800.551.9503 |
| Program Director: | Program Director: |
| Vicki Freeman, Ph.D. Medical Director: Alexander Indrikovs, M.D. | Karen Rogge-McClure Medical Director: Jeffrey J. Tarrand, M.D |
Dual Majors with Biology:
Biology Majors wanting a second Bachelor of Science degree in either Psychology or Chemistry may follow the recommended curriculum for the minimum credit hours provided below. Coursework during summer is required for dual majors. Both Bachelor of Science degrees must be awarded simultaneously.
Bachelor of Science-Biology w/ Bachelor of Science-Psychology Bachelor of Science – Biology with Bachelor of Science – Chemistry Biology Minor
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL1301 | 3 | ENGL 1302 | 3 |
| BIOL 1406 | 4 | BIOL 1407 | 4 |
| CHEM 1411 | 4 | CHEM 1412 | 4 |
| PHIL 1370 | 3 | MATH 2312 | 3 |
| PSYC 2301 | 3 | PSYC 2471 | 4 |
| 17 | 18 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| MATH 2413 | 4 | ENGL 23__ | 3 |
| CHEM 3411 | 4 | CHEM 3412 | 4 |
| PSYC 3420 | 4 | PSYC ELECTIVE* | 3 |
| BIOL 2420 or biol 3460 | 4 | BIOL 2420 or BIOL 3460 | 4 |
| 16 | COSC 1371 | 3 | |
| 17 | |||
| Summer I | Summer I | ||
| PHYS 1401 | 4 | POLS 2302 | 3 |
| Summer II | Summer II | ||
| PHYS 1402 | 4 | POLS 2302 | 3 |
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| PSYC Elective* | 3 | PSYC Elective* | 3 |
| PSYC 4430 | 3 | BIOL 3470 or BIOL 3450 | 4 |
| BIOL 3470 or BIOL 3450 | 4 | BIOL Elective* writing or vert. course | 4 |
| BIOL Elective* writing or vert. course | 4 | BIOL 4404 or BIOL 4470 | 4 |
| COMM 1315 | 3 | 15 | |
| 17 | |||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| FINE ARTS | 3 | BIOL 4344 | |
| BIOL Elective | 4 | BIOL Elective | 3 |
| BIOL Elective | 4 | PSYC Elective | 4 |
| PSYC Elective | 3 | PSYC Elective | 3 |
| 14 | PEGA | 3 | |
| Summer I | 1 | ||
| HIST 1301 | 3 | 14 | |
| Summer II | |||
| HIST 1302 | 3 | ||
| Notes: Examples of biology Electives approved to the "Scientific Research Report Writing Intensive" include: Experimental Design, Environmental Microbiology, Advanced Physiology, Animal Behavior, Ecology. Advanced Psychology electives: Choose any three from either Group I (PSYC 3310, 3320, 3330 3340 4320) or Group II (PSYC 3360, 4310,4360,4380). | |||
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| PHIL 1370 | 3 | SOCIAL SCIENCE | 3 |
| ENGL1301 | 3 | ENGL 1302 | 3 |
| BIOL 1406 | 4 | BIOL 1407 | 4 |
| CHEM 1411 | 4 | CHEM 1412 | 4 |
| MATH 2413 | 4 | MATH 2414 | 4 |
| 18 | 18 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CHEM 3411 | 4 | CHEM 3412 | 4 |
| CHEM 3401 | 4 | PHYS 3350 | 4 |
| ENGL 23__ | 3 | COMM 1315 | 3 |
| BIOL 2420 or BIOL 3460 | 4 | BIOL 2420 or BIOL 3460 | 4 |
| PEGA | 1 | FINE ARTS | 3 |
| 18 | 18 | ||
| Summer I | |||
| PHYS 1401 | 4 | ||
| Summer II | |||
| PHYS 1402 | 4 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CHEM 4311 | 4 | CHEM 4311 | 4 |
| BIOL 3470 or BIOL 3450 | 4 | BIOL 3470 or BIOL 3450 | 4 |
| BIOL Elective* writing or vert. course | 4 | BIOL Elective* writing or vert. course | 4 |
| PSYC 2471 | 4 | BIOL 4404 or BIOL 4470 | 4 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CHEM 3331 | 3 | CHEM 4312, 4132 | 4 |
| CHEM 4311, 4131 | 4 | CHEM 4121 | 1 |
| BIOL Elective | 4 | CHEM 4461 | 4 |
| BIOL Elective | 4 | BIOL 4344 | 3 |
| 15 | BIOL Elective | 4 | |
| 16 | |||
| Summer I | |||
| HIST 1301 | 3 | ||
| Summer II | |||
| HIST 1302 | 3 | ||
| Notes: Examples of biology Electives approved to the "Scientific Research Report Writing Intensive" include: Experimental Design, Environmental Microbiology, Advanced Physiology, Animal Behavior, Ecology. Advanced Psychology electives: Choose any three from either Group I (PSYC 3310, 3320, 3330 3340 4320) or Group II (PSYC 3360, 4310,4360,4380). | |||
Students must take courses to total 20 hours with at least three classes at the 3000-4000 level. All students must successfully complete both BIOL 1406 and BIOL 1407 before enrolling in advanced courses. Some advanced courses have additional prerequisite courses. To qualify for the minor, a grade of no less than “C” must be obtained in each course applied to the minor.
Pre-Professional Programs:
Freshman and transfer students declaring themselves as Pre-Medicine, Pre Dentistry, Pre-Optometry, Pre-Veterinary Medicine, or Pre-Pharmacy status should consult the College of Arts and Sciences section of this catalog and contact the Pre-Professional Office. These pre-professional program students will receive initial advising through the Pre-Professional Office. In their sophomore year those pursuing a BS Biology degree will be assigned to a Biology Faculty member on the Pre-Professional Committee. Students are welcome to contact Dr. Matthew Hoch (Department Chair: Hayes 101; 409.880.8262; matt.hoch@lamar.edu).
Â鶹ÊÓƵ, Department of Biology provides curricula and advises students in only the pre-clinical years for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physician’s Assistant programs. Admission requirements are under the control of the schools offering these clinical programs and are subject to change. Below are recommended pre-clinical curricula offered at Â鶹ÊÓƵ and intended to prepare students for admissions to many programs in Texas. Students interested in these programs should contact Dr. Matthew Hoch for detailed advising (Hayes 205-4; 409.880.8264).
Pre-Physical Therapy
Physical therapists aid in testing and evaluation of patients, then lead the patient through activities to restore health to various impaired bodily functions of the nervous, muscular, bone and joint systems, restore the range of muscle strength, endurance and improve joint motion. Physical therapists are employed by hospitals, physicians and clinics, or may be self-employed. Additional information on physical therapy careers can be found at the Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) website (). The TPTA is the representative body for Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants and Students in the state of Texas.
Most graduate degrees in physical therapy offered at Texas schools are three-year doctoral degree programs. The student should formulate a plan to obtain a bachelor’s degree at Â鶹ÊÓƵ while completing the pre-clinical courses required for specific schools in Texas. Typically pre-physical therapy students at Â鶹ÊÓƵ major in Biology, Kinesiology, or Psychology. Periodic contact with an advisor is strongly urged. Because of the highly competitive nature of the program, acceptance is not guaranteed.
Below is a minimum program of study (120 hours); but this will vary depending on the Bachelor Degree Major and admission requirements for specific graduate programs of interest (see below for a list of physical therapy schools in Texas).
Pre-Physical Therapy
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL 1301 | 3 | ENGL 1302 | 3 |
| BIOL 1406 | 4 | BIOL 1407 | 4 |
| CHEM 1411 | 4 | CHEM 1412 | 4 |
| MATH 2312 | 3 | PSYC 2301 | 3 |
| 14 | BIOL 1102 | 1 | |
| 15 | |||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL 23__ | 3 | PEGA or MULB | 1 |
| PSYC 2471 | 4 | COMM 1315 | 3 |
| PHYS 1401 | 4 | PSYC 2315 | 3 |
| BIOL 3428 or 2401 | 4 | PHYS 1402 | 4 |
| 15 | BIOL 3440 or BIOL 2402* | 4 | |
| 15 | |||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| POLS 2301 | 3 | POLS 2302 | 3 |
| CORE or ELECTIVE in MAJOR** | 3 | PSYC 4320 or ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 3 |
| FINE ARTS | 3 | CORE or ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 4 |
| MGMT 3310** | 3 | CORE or ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 3 |
| SOCI 1301 | 3 | CORE or ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 3 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CORE or ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 4 | ELECTIVE+ | 3 |
| CORE or ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 3 | ELECTIVE+ | 3 |
| ELECTIVE+ | 3 | ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 3 |
| ELECTIVE+ | 3 | ELECTIVE in MAJOR | 3 |
| HIST 1301 | 3 | HIST 1302 | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Notes: *Graduate programs in Texas vary for anatomy and physiology prerequisites (BIOL 2401, 2402 and/or BIOL 3428, 3440). See the Pre-PhysicalTherapy advisor for requirements at particular schools. BIOL 2401, 2402 do not contribute to the B.S. Biology Major.** Principles of Management (MGMT 3310) and Abnormal Psychology (PSYC 4320) are not requirements for all programs; they may be replaced by core courses or electives in a particular major.+ These electives may be free or specific to the major. | |||
Physical Therapy schools in Texas: University of Texas: Galveston, Dallas, San Antonio, El Paso. Texas Woman’s University: Denton, Dallas and Houston. Baylor: U.S. Army San Antonio. Southwest Texas State University: San Marcos. Texas Tech. University: Lubbock. Hardin-Simmons University: Abilene. Angelo State University: San Angelo
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists aid patients who are physically injured through accident, illness or through psychological disability. The aim of the therapy is to rehabilitate the patient through application of splints, prostheses or directed occupational pursuits to maximize and extend the patient’s fine motor abilities. Occupational therapists are employed by hospitals, schools and retirement homes. More information on careers in occupational therapy can be found at the Texas Occupational Therapy Association (TOTA) website (). The TOTA is the representative body for Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapist Assistants and Students in the state of Texas.
Most graduate degrees in occupational therapy offered at Texas schools are two-year master’s degree programs. Several programs in Texas accept students after completion of pre-clinical course requirements during a minimum of three years of study (90 credits) as an undergraduate student. The student should formulate a plan to obtain a bachelor’s degree at Â鶹ÊÓƵ while completing the pre-clinical courses required for specific schools in Texas within two to three years. Typically pre-occupational therapy students at Â鶹ÊÓƵ major in Kinesiology or Psychology. Because of the highly competitive nature of the program, acceptance is not guaranteed.
Below is a minimum program of study to complete pre-clinical requirements in the first two years of undergraduate study at Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Some courses will vary depending on the Bachelor Degree Major and admission requirements for specific graduate school programs of interest. A list of schools offering occupational therapy programs can be obtained from the Program Advisor or found at the TOTA website ().
Pre Occupational Therapy
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL1301 | 3 | PHIL1370 | 3 |
| BIOL 2401 | 4 | ENGL 1302 | 3 |
| PSYC 2301 | 3 | BIOL 2402 | 4 |
| MATH 1314 | 3 | PSYC 2315 | 3 |
| FINE ARTS | 3 | PSYC 2471 | 4 |
| 16 | 17 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| BIOL 1102 | 1 | PEGA or MULB | 1 |
| POLS 2301 | 3 | POLS 2302 | 3 |
| HIST 1301 | 3 | HIST 1302 | 3 |
| ENGL 23__ | 3 | PSYC 4320 | 3 |
| KINE 2371 | 3 | PSYC 4380 | 3 |
| SOCI 1301 | 3 | COMM 1315 | 3 |
| 16 | |||
| 16 | |||
| THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS: Core courses and electives in the major to complete a Bachelor's Degree: *General Biology I for Majors (BIOL 1406) and General Chemistry I (CHEM 1411) are also required for admission to Master of Occupational Therapy Program at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. | |||
Pre-Physician Assistant
The physician assistant is under the supervision and responsibility of a physician, performing duties which extend the ability of the physician to provide adequate health care. Such duties include medical history recording, routine physical exams and other duties the physician may assign. More information on the physician assistant profession can be found at the Texas Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA) website ().
Most Physician Assistant graduate degree programs at Texas schools require a Bachelor of Science degree. The student should formulate a plan to obtain a bachelor’s degree at Â鶹ÊÓƵ while completing the pre-clinical courses required for specific schools in Texas within three years. Typically pre-physician assistant students at Â鶹ÊÓƵ major in Biology.
Below is a minimum program of study to complete pre-clinical requirements three years at Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Typically students major in Biology. Some courses will vary depending on the choice of major and admission requirements for specific graduate school programs of interest. A list of schools offering physician assistant programs and their requirements can be obtained from the Program Advisor or found via the TAPA website ().
Pre-Physician Assistant
Minimum Hours for Pre-Clinical Courses: 65
| First Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| ENGL1301 | 3 | HIST 1302 | 3 |
| BIOL 1406 | 4 | ENGL 1302 | 3 |
| PSYC 2301 | 3 | BIOL 1407 | 4 |
| HIST 1301 | 3 | PSYC 2315 | 3 |
| MATH 1314 | 3 | FCSC 1322 | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| BIOL 1102 | 1 | PHIL 1370 | 3 |
| POLS 2301 | 3 | POLS 2302 | 3 |
| BIOL 2420 | 4 | BIOL 3440 or BIOL 2402* | 4 |
| BIOL 3428 or BIOL 2401* | 4 | CHEM 1412 | 4 |
| CHEM 1411 | 4 | COMM 1315 | 3 |
| 16 | 17 | ||
| * Graduate programs in Texas vary for anatomy and physiology prerequisites (BIOL 2401, 2402 and/or BIOL 3428, 3440). See the pre-Physician Assistant advisor for requirements at particular schools. BIOL 2401, 2402 do not contribute to the B.S. Biology Major | |||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | ||
| CHEM 3411 | 4 | ENGL 23__ | 3 |
| BIOL 3470 | 4 | SOCI 1301 | 3 |
| BIOL 4405 | 4 | BIOL 4404 or BIOL 4470 | 4 |
| PSYC 2471 | 4 | PEGA or MULB | 1 |
| 16 | 14 | ||
| Fourth Year: Take remaining courses required for major | |||
Graduate Program
The Department of Biology offers a program of study leading to the Master of Science in Biology degree. It is designed to enhance the professional competence of graduates in biology or closely related disciplines who are interested in pursuing academic careers, employment in private industry or governmental agencies in biologically oriented fields, entrance to professional schools, or who are presently engaged in or planning to enter secondary school teaching.
Applicants must:
- Have completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the biological sciences, including eight hours of general biology (BIOL 1406 & 1407 or the equivalent) and a course in genetics. Excluded from the 24 hours is Anatomy & Physiology (BIOL 2401 & 2402),
- Have completed a minimum of one semester of organic chemistry and one semester of statistics,
- Remove any deficiencies as provided in the section on admission,
- Meet the admission standards of the College of Graduate Studies,
- In addition, score 950 (V + Q ) on the GRE and have a GPA of 2.5/4.0 overall or 2.75 on the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work.
- All students entering the graduate program in biology must have a member of the Biology Graduate Faculty willing to serve as supervisor of the student's graduate studies. To this end, applicants should explore the interests and research background of members of the biology faculty, including directly contacting faculty with common interests. Applicants should include with their application materials a letter of intent addressed to the biology faculty that explains the following: a) their career goal(s) giving reasons for pursuing a MS degree in Biology; b) their areas of interest in biology; and c) preferences to be supervised by specific faculty members. The latter is especially important if pursuing the thesis option.
Degree Requirements
The candidate for the M.S. in Biology must meet all the College of Graduate Studies general requirements as listed in this catalog. For their professional development, students must enroll in BIOL 5110 Graduate Seminar. They must take the course two times; any subsequent enrollments will not count toward the degree.
Thesis option
This option is strongly recommended for those who plan to continue graduate work beyond the master’s level or to be employed in a research position by private industry or governmental agency. Students are expected to:
- Submit a written proposal for the thesis. After the thesis proposal is written, pass an oral examination before the biology graduate faculty on the experimental design of the proposed thesis and related disciplines. Note: This requirement is a prerequisite to achieving candidacy and should be completed during the first year of enrollment and must be completed by the end of the second year of the program.
- Successfully complete thirty-three hours of graduate credit. All course work will be in biology. Exceptions must be approved by the student’s supervisor (i.e., major advisor) and by the Chair of the Department of Biology. Six hours of Thesis (BIOL 5390 and BIOL 5391) contribute to the degree. Additional BIOL 5391 must be taken as needed to complete lab or field research and during the semester of graduation.
- Complete the proposed research to the satisfaction of the committee and write the research thesis to the satisfaction of the committee.
- Pass a final thesis defense, consisting of an oral presentation of the research and addressing questions from the faculty and committee.
Non-Thesis option
This option is intended for those not seeking a higher degree. Students are expected to:
- Successfully complete 39 semester hours of graduate credit in biology. Exceptions must be approved by the Chair of the Department of Biology.
- File for candidacy after 12 hrs once a three member graduate committee has been created and G-2 form accepted by the Chair of the Department of Biology. Students must file for candidacy prior to the last nine hours of graduate study.
- During the last semester of study, pass a written comprehensive exam on biology, comprised of two essay questions from each of the three committee members (six essays total).