Bard College at Simon's Rock: the Early College
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Biology

Explore the biological foundations of life on earth, while developing the scientific skills necessary to address pressing global issues, from climate change to health care.

A concentration in biology provides a fundamental understanding of life, from cellular functions to ecological processes. Students learn to observe and document the behavior of biological organisms, conduct research, design and run experiments, and analyze data. Through advanced coursework, they’re prepared for graduate studies in biology and health-related fields.

Students learn in the lab and in the field. The 275-acre campus at Simon’s Rock features forests, ponds, and streams that host an impressive diversity of life forms and offer ample opportunity for hands-on learning. Likewise, a greenhouse attached to the main science building is a hub of botany and environmental science experiments designed to advance conservation and sustainability initiatives.

Simon’s Rock has definitely opened up opportunities for me. I’m not just in some big lab at a big university and cleaning the glassware. I decided I wanted to do research… and I’m the one who actually did all the research, start-to-finish, and I think that was a big advantage.

-Sam Yarmis ’14

Related Career Paths

A concentration in biology prepares students for careers in medicine and health sciences, biotechnology, genetics, cell and molecular biology, ecology, zoology, botany, evolutionary biology, and conservation biology.

Curriculum

Introductory and foundational courses teach students the skills to conduct scientific inquiry and provide a solid basis for advancing their knowledge of biological processes. In advanced courses, students choose individualized curriculums based on their own interests and goals. Here, they gain a deeper understanding of a particular field of biology: cell and molecular, organismal or ecological biology.

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Course Spotlight

Bombus sp. on Joe-pye Weed on campus

Biology 309: Animal Behavior

This course, involving both lectures and field experience, takes an ethological approach to animal behavior, examining the physiological, ontogenetic, and evolutionary bases of behavior. Topics include sensory capacities, orientation, motivation, instinct, learning, communication, social behavior, and the evolution of behavior.

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Student Profile

Sam Yarmis

"A Well-Rounded Person Makes a Better Doctor."

Sam Started at 16

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