About The Department of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences
The Department of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences is home to some 250 biology majors, who work with a dedicated and talented group of 15 faculty members, to develop expertise in their chosen field of study. Biology majors have a variety of degree choices, including a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts, as well as a more specialized Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Environmental Remediation and Restoration or Molecular Biology. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree may do so using informal advisement tracks in Molecular/Cellular Biology, Environmental Science, pre-Medicine, pre-Dentistry, pre-Veterinary Medicine, or General Biology. Additionally, we offer a Bachelor of Science in Earth Systems Sciences for those students interested in Geological-based studies.
Research is an important part of our curriculum, and at USC Aiken, majors work with a chosen faculty member to develop and carry out independent laboratory projects in a variety of areas. These projects are often long-term, multi-semester experiences that enhance and extend classroom learning, as well as provide a strong background in applied biological techniques. Many of our majors are co-authors of peer-reviewed papers and give presentations at local, state, and regional conferences.
Importantly, the Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences experience at USC Aiken is grounded in coursework supplemented with the actual experience of putting these studies and concepts into practice in the laboratory. We believe this builds a strong foundation in the sciences and makes our students highly competitive as they move to the next level of their careers.