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Biology Program

About the Program

The biology major provides a rigorous research-based education for students to gain knowledge of the fundamental physical, chemical, and biological principles that govern nature and living systems. By leveraging Hawai’i’s marine and terrestrial environments and BYU–Hawaii’s diverse international community, students are exposed to a living laboratory in which they explore biological questions with local, regional, and global significance.

What You Will Learn

In addition to developing a strong foundation in life sciences students can select courses that focus on cellular and molecular biology, conservation ecology, environmental science, and marine biology.

Students develop the knowledge and skills to:

  • Understand the physical, chemical, and biological principles that govern living systems.
  • Communicate scientific ideas clearly in written and oral forms.
  • Perform essential laboratory and field techniques, and employ scientific principles and laboratory skills to solve scientific problems.
  • Analyze and evaluate relevant scientific literature.

Career Pathways

Graduates are prepared for employment, professional programs, and advanced study in the biological, environmental, and health sciences. Potential career pathways include:

  • Biological and laboratory research
  • Biotechnology and molecular biology
  • Conservation and natural resource management
  • Environmental science and management
  • Government, education, and community service
  • Graduate and professional education
  • Health professions
  • Marine biology and marine resource management

Resources

Mentored Research in Biology

July 29, 2019 10:36 AM
"The research program during my senior year really made a difference in giving me first-hand experience. This also strengthened my application for graduate school."

Contacts & Support

Program Lead
Colby Weeks

Administrative Assistant
Naomi Kurihara Sellers

Academic Advisor
Danielle Kinikini

Biology Program Faculty

Kikiana Hurwitz

University Laboratory Manager
SCB 325
(808) 675-4632
kikiana.hurwitz@byuh.edu

M. Takeshi Nakata

Adjunct Faculty (Math & Computing)
SCB 313
M.Takeshi.Nakata@byuh.edu

Jacqueline Rasmussen

Adjunct Faculty (Sciences)
SCB 313
jacqdr@go.byuh.edu