Biology Department
What We Do:
We promote an engaging culture of excellence in teaching and research to ensure our students are active participants in the learning process. Visit our Biology Blog for first-hand experiences of our students, graduates, and faculty.
Our goal is to transform our students into scholars who are deeply committed to the process of independent learning through inquiry. With one-on-one interaction with our faculty, our students gain in-depth experience in the process of science, learn laboratory techniques, as well as share in the excitement of scientific discovery.
How We Stand Out:
- Small classes foster close collaboration between students and faculty.
- Dynamic learning environment with accomplished professors whose enthusiasm for biology is infectious.
- Laboratory courses in the state-of-the art Loyola Science Center integrate independent research and inquiry.
- Values-based education based on Jesuit principles.
- Mission to nurture students of competence, conscience and compassion.
Programs:
- Biology - Biology is the study of the living things, with particular regard to origin, evolution, structure, and behavior. Students in the major study plants and animals as well as bacteria and viruses. Through one-on-one interaction with our faculty, our students gain in-depth experience in the process of science, learn laboratory techniques, as well as share in the excitement of scientific discovery.
- Physiology - Physiology is a branch of biology that focuses on the functions of organisms. Students receive robust foundations in anatomy and physiology and cellular and integrative physiology, as well as in cutting-edge investigational techniques that characterize modern day physiological research.
Meet Our Faculty:
The Biology faculty at The University of Scranton maintain a strong commitment to teaching and research excellence. They also are committed to making students active participants in the learning and research processes. As a result of our philosophy and of our small class sizes, our faculty become well acquainted with our students, and we encourage interested students to become involved in all aspects of faculty research.
In addition, faculty are involved in all aspects of campus life: academics, scholarship, student affairs, and other extracurricular activities.
For many faculty members, their passion for Biology stems from a personal experience that has shaped their scholarship. For example, Dr. Janice Voltzow grew up on the Florida Gulf Coast where she collected seashells during her childhood. Today, her research involves marine snails. You can read all about it here.
It is fascinating to see the amazing diversity of animals, and to examine the different ways that animals function and the structures that enable these functions.
Dr. Janice Voltzow, Professor of Biology
Inside the Classroom:
- Rigorous academics
- Project-based learning
- Faculty-mentored research opportunities
Our small class sizes allow students close personal interaction with our faculty, allowing close collaboration in the learning environments and instruction directed towards the individual student.
Many of our laboratory courses integrate independent research and inquiry, allowing students to be active participants in the learning process.
Student Research:
We firmly believe that research is a critical and integral part of the educational process. The faculty of the Biology Department is deeply committed to involving students in their research endeavors.
Students work hand-in-hand with faculty collaborators. Students are also encouraged to attend and participate in local and national scientific meetings and conferences, allowing them to hone their scientific communication skills as well as network with other students and scientists from around the globe.
Career Outcomes:
You’ll find Scranton biology graduates working in diverse fields such as:
- Healthcare (e.g., doctors, dentists, EMT)
- Education (e.g., elementary, secondary, universities)
- Pharmaceutical sales
- Biotechnology
- Government (e.g., USDA, US Fish & Wildlife, Game Commission)
- Public utilities (e.g., water, power)
With our Jesuit educational philosophy of developing the “whole person,” we provide graduates with the flexibility to pursue opportunities in non-science related fields as well. Here are examples of other occupations of recent graduates:
- Law school
- Management positions
- Self-employed/start your own business
- Writers
- Military service
- Social services (for example, working with the City of Philadelphia)
- Ecotourism travel agent/guide
For more information about what you can do with a Biology degree, click here.