Biology as a Major
Biology is the field of science devoted to the study of life. Introduced in Germany in 1800, the term biology was to encompass the array of disciplines involved with the study of living forms. Biology was made popular the early 1800's by the scientists such as Lamarck, a French naturalist. The English Zoologist, Huxley, believed that prevailing idea of separating zoology and botany was unwise and that all life form should be studied in an integrated way. Today, biology is subdivided into hierarchies, or specializations, based on molecules, the cell, the organism, and the population, as well as those devoted to selected groups of organisms as birds (Ornithology), insects (Entomology), Fungi (Mycology), microbes (Microbiology) etc.

The area of Science and Mathematics offers courses that lead to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology. The area, in cooperation with the Division of Education, also offers a major in Biology for students preparing to teach in Texas public schools. The objectives of our Major in Biology are:

• Provide all students with an understanding of importance of biology in daily life.
• Provide basic preparation for students pursuing careers in medical or other health sciences.
• Meet the needs of students who plan to enter diverse or specialized areas of study or
  employment.
• Provide students with preparations to become professional Biologists or Biology teachers at middle or high schools.

The Biology Program provides a firm, well-balanced educational foundation needed to begin a professional career in the life sciences. In addition to the strongest possible education in Biology, students also receive an excellent background in mathematics, chemistry, physics, as well as arts, language and social sciences. Students in our program also have the opportunity to perform research with the faculty members.

The sciences of Biotechnology, Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics are expanding rapidly, thus creating numerous job opportunities for Biologists in industry, academic, and research institutions. Biology is a major choice for students who are interested in further graduate studies in Biotechnology, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Plant Breeding and Tissue Culture, Genetics, Histology, Physiology, Zoology, Medical and other health professional fields.

Our Biology Faculty Members have expertise in such areas as Physiology, Ecology, Medical Entomology, Public Health, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Microbiology. We emphasize active learning in a curriculum that gives students a strong biology background while allowing them the flexibility to choose upper-class elective of their areas of interest. Small class size and advisement by the members of our Biology Faculty enhance the learning experience by our majors.

Program Highlights
Jarvis Christian College received a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) that provides funds for equipment and other improvements in the science classroom, for faculty development in the science areas, and for scholarships for academically deserving students majoring in science, including Biology.

Faculty Roster
Dr. Johnnye M. Jones, Ph.D., Atlanta University
Dr. John F. Johnson, Ed.D., Texas A & M University at Commerce
Dr.James T Goodwin, Ph.D., University of Tennessee Dr. Nurul Alam, Ph.D., Gifu University

Student Organizations
Beta Kappa Chi National Scientific Honor Society
Science Club
NSF Scholars
Ronald McNair Scholars

Scholarships/Financial Assistance
Scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial assistance are available to qualifying students through the College Financial Aid/Scholarship Program.