Biology

The biology curriculum is designed to provide students with the opportunity for the best possible undergraduate education in biology. In addition to the transmission of factual information, the biology curriculum places emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills. This is accomplished through a combination of lecturing, experimental laboratory exercises, independent learning by data analysis, research and field projects, seminars, incorporation of extensive writing, library research and use of computers in data analysis. Students studying biology at MSU Billings have an opportunity to focus on specific areas in biology through a variety of options and plans of study.  Specialization in biology is possible with the choice of an appropriate plan of study and in consultation with the faculty advisors who can provide students with the best educational experience at MSU Billings. The department offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Biology, a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a Medical Laboratory Science Option, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Biology.

Chemistry

Our comprehensive chemistry program is designed to allow flexibility to meet individual interests. A chemistry major can  find employment in laboratories ranging from academic research, industrial research and development, or even quality control. Selection of elective courses in other fields such as biology, geology, business or health sciences can open up a variety of career options.  The department offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Chemistry as well as a Chemistry Minor.

 

Broadfield Science

The Broadfield Science program offers students a broad-based foundation in the sciences through coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Physics.  Students pursuing this Bachelor of Science degree will also complete a concentration in either Environmental Science or Physical Science.  The program provides graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for positions requiring a broad-based foundation in all natural sciences.

The Broadfield Science Degree with Teaching Licensure Option is especially attractive to students interested in teaching science because they will have strong foundations in biology, chemistry, earth science, and physics.  With additional Professional Core requirements met for teacher licensure, students completing this program would be regarded as “highly qualified” according to national standards, and thus qualify for K-12 teaching opportunities in broadfield science.

Physics

Physics is the study of matter, energy, and their interactions; this includes all physical structures and phenomena. Experiments and observations in physics have shown that the operation of the universe at all levels is based on a few fundamental laws. The study of physics is the study of these laws and their applications. Physics coursework is foundational to the BS Biology and BS Chemistry degree programs, as well as the BS Broadfield Science and BS Broadfield Science Teaching Option degrees.

Earth Science

Earth Science is an important part of the Broadfield Science program. The Earth Science curriculum provides opportunities for study in the areas of: landform development; igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; crystallography; earth history; earth structures; and independent research.  Students completing this curriculum may find employment in the geological, engineering, and environmental areas as well as employment as interpreters with park systems, nature centers, and museums.