The physical science concentration begins with two semesters each of calculus, chemistry, and physics, plus a semester of biological science. Students then complete the major by earning two minors selected from biochemistry, chemistry, computer science, geology, mathematics, or physics. Completion of the double minor gives an unusual breadth in the physical sciences. Recent graduates have pursued careers in science. Others use this background as a basis for graduate work and research or for entry into medical or veterinary professional programs. Graduates can also add the certification requirements for secondary education to this concentration.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Office in Molecular and Radiological Biosciences Building, Room316
(970) 491-5602
Professor P. Shing Ho, Chair
Dr. Aaron Sholders, Undergraduate Coordinator
Administrative Assistant Yvonne Bridgeman, Graduate Coordinator
Major in Biochemistry
As the name suggests, biochemistry links biology and chemistry. Biochemistry is most simply defined as the chemistry of living systems. It is the science that tries to explain how “lifeless” molecules work together to make “living” organisms. The methods of chemistry and molecular biology are used to study the structure and behavior of the complex molecules found in biological materials and the ways these molecules interact to form cells, tissues, and whole organisms. Biochemistry provides the basis for advances in human and veterinary medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Biochemists may participate in interdisciplinary research and development projects alongside chemical engineers, biologists, microbiologists, agronomists, physicians, and other professionals. They investigate the molecular mechanisms of such diseases as AIDS, diabetes, cancer, heart disease and stroke, and develop solutions to environmental problems through biotechnology.
The biochemistry major provides a student with a strong, well-balanced background in the biological, physical, and mathematical sciences. As a biochemistry major, studies include macromolecular structure and function; cellular biochemistry; metabolism; gene expression, DNA and protein structure, DNA replication, and repair; cell organization, communication, growth, aging, and death. Students are also required to take courses in physics, organic chemistry, physical chemistry for life sciences, and statistical measurements and methods used in research. Independent study and internships during the junior and senior years provide opportunities for experiential learning and working closely with the faculty, sometimes leading to authorship of original publications.
Learning Outcomes
Students will obtain:
· A command of the basic concepts of chemistry, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and cellular biology.
· The ability to critically analyze, and present the methods, results, and conclusions of scientific papers in the current biochemical literature, and orally present technical material in a clear and comprehensible form.
· Experience in use of a variety of laboratory techniques; critically interpret experimental results; and design new experiments.
· Demonstrate the ability to perform original research in biochemistry and molecular biology.
Potential Occupations
Possible career opportunities include, but are not limited to: process research technician; production/quality assurance lab technician; biomedical/pharmaceutical researcher or salesperson; molecular biologist; biophysicist; cytologist; toxicologist; “crime scene investigator;” industrial hygienist; dairy technologist; environmental analyst, hygienist, or chemist; wastewater treatment chemist; food and drug inspector; museum technician; teacher; writer; fisheries biologist; research analyst; medical or clinical lab technologist. Many biochemistry majors go on to graduate school or health care related professional schools.
MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, MATH 126, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121 are considered review courses; credit in these courses, either by examination or completion, may not be used toward a degree in biochemistry, i.e., they do not count toward the 120 credits required for graduation.
A minimum grade of C (2.000) must be earned for BC 493 and all biochemistry (BC) and LIFE prefix lecture and laboratory courses at or above the 200-level required in the biochemistry major.
Minor in Biochemistry
The minor is valuable to students majoring in any biological or physical science or in engineering. The minor requires a sound chemistry background, provides fundamental courses in molecular biosciences, and augments the latter with more specialized courses in biochemistry and molecular genetics.
Graduate Programs in Biochemistry
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
Office in Anatomy-Zoology Building, Room E106
(970) 491-7011
Professor Daniel R. Bush, Chair
Major in Biological Science
Biology is the study of all living things – from bacteria and viruses that can be seen only under a microscope, to plants, animals, and humans and their relationship to their environments. Biology majors study the structure and function of cells, organ systems and tissues in animals and plants, ecology (the relationship between living things and their environment), and evolution. They learn about physiology, behavior, genetics and heredity, aquatic toxicology, microscopic organisms such as bacteria, and laboratory techniques for diverse areas ranging from field research to biotechnology. This major provides a solid foundation of understanding in the basic biological sciences. It also offers an opportunity to choose an area of emphasis within life sciences that is related to particular career goals. (For example, anatomy of cell and molecular biology for biomedical professions or biotechnology, aquatic biology for marine biologists, plant molecular biology for agricultural biotechnology, etc.)
Learning Outcomes
Students will:
· Interpret scientific data
· Demonstrate strong organizational and laboratory skills
· Define scientific hypotheses and design experiments to test them
· Work effectively in groups
· Demonstrate strong writing and oral communication skills
Potential Occupations
Training in biology prepares students for a very large number of occupations. Some involve daily interaction with dozens of people, others can be done in relative isolation; some are highly focused, others require knowledge far beyond science. Career options related to biology include water quality assessments, field and lab technician work, biotechnology in biomedical sciences and agriculture, genetic research, agriculture, or sales (i.e., pharmaceutical, agricultural). Graduates work in small business, multinational corporations, academia, and government research laboratories and policy agencies. A degree in biological sciences offers a broad foundation for dental, medical, or veterinary school, and a number of health professions such as podiatry or optometry. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees in life sciences to carry out basic research or advance into leadership positions in industry. Participation in internships and/or laboratory research experience is highly recommended and strongly encouraged by the department to enhance practical training and development.
Combining biology with non-science skills can also lead to exciting careers. Biology and English can be incorporated into a career as a technical writer or science fiction novelist. Biology and art are combined in medical and scientific illustration. Biology and computer science can be linked in the exciting area of bioinformatics, or as an historian of science or medicine. Work in both biology and philosophy/ religion can be incorporated in careers in bioethics. Biology is linked with psychology for the neuroscientist or genetic counselor. Study biology and political science to work in environmental law or be a patent lawyer in biotechnology. Try mixing biology and business to get into hospital administration, small business or biotechnology administration. Specialized master’s degrees are designed for many of these unique career paths.
Some career opportunities include, but are not limited to: aquarium, zoo, and museum worker; assistant research scientist; research technician in industry or university laboratories; biology photographer; biotechnologist; brewery laboratory assistant; consumer product researcher; marine bacteriologist, biologist, or ecologist; nuclear medicine technician; park naturalist; pharmaceutical researcher or salesperson; public health officer; science librarian; environmental educator, health specialist, or impact specialist; ecologist; fisheries biologist or conservationist; industrial hygienist; occupational therapist (with a master’s degree); medical or clinical laboratory technologist; Peace Corps volunteer.
Biological Science Concentration
The curriculum includes a two-semester introductory biology sequence, cell biology, developmental biology, ecology, evolution, and genetics. Required courses in the physical sciences include a minimum of one year in introductory chemistry and in physics (with labs), and at least one course in organic chemistry (with lab), and one in biochemistry. A calculus course and a statistics course are also required. In addition, students choose a selected field of 12 credits on one of the following: anatomy/physiology, aquatic biology, behavioral biology, cellular/molecular and genetic biology, ecology, evolution/genetics and systematics, microbiology, or integrative organismal biology. There is an additional requirement of one course in two other fields, which assures a broad base of study.
To be qualified for graduation, students in the biological science major must have a minimum grade of C- in each of their biological, physical science, and mathematical courses used to meet requirements for the major. This applies to courses taken as substitutions for meeting these requirements. The minimum scholastic average acceptable for graduation is 2.000 computed only for courses attempted at Colorado State.
MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121are considered review courses; credits in these courses may not be used toward a degree in the majors in biological science or zoology.
Botany Concentration
Botany is the general study of plants from microscopic algae to giant redwoods, from mushrooming fungi to flowering angiosperms. Plant anatomy, how plants grow and develop, and how they survive and interrelate within their environments are topics of study. For students who like the outdoors, a career in plant ecology, taxonomy, or forestry might be appealing. Students attracted to the beauty and design of the microscopic world might enjoy a career in plant anatomy or plant developmental biology. Those interested in chemistry might enjoy plant biochemistry, molecular biology, or plant biotechnology. Those intrigued by plant diseases might become plant pathologists and the mathematically oriented might explore systems ecology, genetics, or plant biotechnology.
The botany curriculum begins with a solid foundation in mathematics, the biological sciences, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, evolution, and genetics. Biochemistry, botany emphasizing terrestrial plant studies, including plant systematics, anatomy, and ecology, and earth sciences round out the core. Botany students also take liberal arts and communications courses to give breadth to their education.
To be qualified for graduation, students in the biological science major must have a minimum grade of C- in each of their biological, physical science, and mathematical courses used to meet requirements for the major. This applies to courses taken as substitutions for meeting these requirements. The minimum scholastic average acceptable for graduation is 2.000 computed only for courses attempted at Colorado State.
MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121 are considered review courses; credits in these courses may not be used toward a degree in the majors in biological science or zoology.
Major in Zoology
Zoologists study animals – their origin, behavior, diseases, and life processes. Some experiment with live animals in controlled or natural surroundings while others study the structure and function of animal cells, tissues, and organ systems. Some zoologists go on to study veterinary medicine. Zoologists participate in research that has practical outcomes in farming, medicine, pharmacy, wildlife conservation, and pest control. Zoology encompasses many specialties. At Colorado State, students may focus on general training in animal biology or concentration in the following areas: animal behavior, development, aquatic biology, ecology (how animals adapt to their environments), genetics and evolution, invertebrate organisms, cellular/ molecular biology and physiology, systematics, and morphology of vertebrate organisms.
The curriculum is designed to provide a basic understanding of zoology through a variety of laboratory experiences in combination with the study of basic theories and defining concepts. The program encourages flexibility, strength, and depth. The course work includes a two-semester introductory biology sequence, one course each in invertebrates and vertebrates, and courses in evolution and ecology. Required courses in the physical sciences include a minimum of one year of introductory chemistry and at least one course in organic chemistry, two courses in physics (all with labs) and one in biochemistry. A calculus and statistics course is also required. In addition, students select a minimum of 15 credits of zoology courses in their chosen areas of concentration.
Learning Outcomes
Students will:
· Interpret scientific data
· Demonstrate strong organizational and laboratory skills
· Define scientific hypotheses and design experiments to test them
· Work effectively in groups
· Demonstrate strong writing and oral communication skills
Potential Occupations
This major prepares students to work in various areas of zoology, such as research or private industry, or to begin graduate school or professional studies. Career opportunities include medical biotechnology, research technician, protective agencies such as shelters and refuges, trainers and handlers, animal-related business, aquatic/marine biologists, exotic animal specialists, and wildlife conservation. It is an appropriate major for students planning to attend medical or veterinary school. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees to carry out basic research or advance into leadership positions in industry. Participation in internships, laboratory, or research opportunities is highly recommended encouraged by the department to enhance practical training and development.
Careers for zoology majors include, but are not limited to: aquarium and museum curator/director; zoo keeper; animal trainer and instructor; science librarian; environmental technician; fish and wildlife technician; veterinary technician/assistant; marine bacteriologist, biologist, or ecologist; humane society positions; cytotechnologist; ecologist; fisheries biologist or conservationist; laboratory technician; marketing researcher; medical technologist; park ranger; pharmaceutical sales representative; production supervisor; quality analysis technician in food or pharmaceutical industry; radiation protection technician; research technician; industrial hygienist; wildlife photographer.
To be qualified for graduation, students in the zoology major must have a minimum grade of C- in each of their biological, physical science, and mathematical courses used to meet requirements for the major. This applies to courses taken as substitutions for meeting these requirements. The minimum scholastic average acceptable for graduation is 2.000 computed only for courses attempted at Colorado State.
MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121 are considered review courses; credits in these courses may not be used toward a degree in the majors in biological science or zoology.
Minor in Botany
The minor in botany is offered to provide interested students with maximum breadth and depth in botanical science utilizing a limited number of requirements. The program also serves to broaden the academic background of students seeking employment in the interdisciplinary job market associated with the plant sciences.
Minor in Zoology
The minor in zoology is a useful complement to a major in animal science, biological science, botany, fishery biology, geology, natural resource recreation and tourism, or wildlife biology.
Graduate Programs in Biology
DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY
Office in Chemistry Building, Room B101
(970) 491-6381
Professor Anthony K. Rappé, Chair
Major in Chemistry
Chemists study the atomic structure of physical matter and analyze how it changes. More specifically, they analyze how basic atomic and molecular components are combined and can be manipulated to produce useful or improved products. Chemistry majors develop a solid foundation in general chemistry and mathematics followed by course work in organic chemistry, quantitative analysis, physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and physics. The curriculum is rounded out by courses in the liberal and communications arts.
Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment including NMR, FTIR, UV/Vis, fluorescence, Raman and mass spectrometers, vacuum lines, x-ray diffraction, column chromatography. Additionally, ample opportunities exist for undergraduate students to become involved in graduate-level research in the laboratories of individual faculty members. Undergraduate research is strongly encouraged for any student planning a career in chemistry.
Learning Outcomes
Chemistry students will:
· Organize, critically evaluate, and present chemical information coherently through oral and written discourse.
· Upon obtaining a bachelor of science degree in chemistry, have the contemporary skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level positions in the field, or for admission to graduate or to professional school.
· Demonstrate original research skills, namely the ability to plan investigations to resolve research questions, conduct such theoretical and/or laboratory experimentation, solve problems arising in such situations and interpret and communicate results.
Potential Occupations
Chemists are employed in a wide array of professional fields in private industry, government, and education. Chemists work in research, development, analysis and testing, consulting, industrial quality control, environmental resource management, and forensics. Principal employers are petrochemical firms, biotechnology firms, consumer chemical firms, environmental testing laboratories, agricultural companies, governmental regulatory agencies, governmental and educational research laboratories, and manufacturing firms. Chemistry is also an excellent major for those preparing for careers in veterinary medicine and the health professions. Students whose career goals involve teaching at the secondary school level have the opportunity to complete the teacher licensure program through the School of Education.
Some occupations include, but are not limited to: agricultural chemist; air and water quality analyst; biochemical technician; chemical sales and marketing representative; clinical chemist; consultant; educator; forensic analyst; laboratory technician/bench chemist; materials analyst; patent examiner; pharmaceutical chemist; polymer technician; technical writer; toxicologist.
ACS Certified Concentration
Students who wish to work as professional chemists should select the ACS certified concentration to obtain professional certification by the American Chemical Society. This objective entails courses in inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, instrumental analysis, and statistics.
MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, MATH 126 M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121 are considered review courses for chemistry majors. Credits for these courses may not be used toward the 120 credits required to graduate as a chemistry major.
Chemistry majors must achieve a minimum grade of C- in all the listed courses required for the major in chemistry.
Non-ACS Certified Concentration
Minor in Chemistry
The Chemistry Department offers a minor in chemistry to interested students from other disciplines. The program serves to broaden the academic background of students seeking employment in the biosciences and related fields.
A minimum grade of C- is required in all of the chemistry courses required for the minor in chemistry.
Graduate Programs in Chemistry
Master of science and doctor of philosophy degree programs are offered in analytical, chemistry education, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Students interested in graduate work should refer to the Graduate and Professional Bulletin, http://graduateschool.colostate.edu/index.asp?url=catalogand the department’s website, www.chm.colostate.edu. A graduate program brochure is available from the department.
DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
Office in University Services Center, Room 211
(970) 491-5792
Professor L. Darrell Whitley, Chair
Major in Computer Science
Computer science is the systematic study of algorithmic processes that describe and transform information: their theory, analysis, design, efficiency, implementation, and application. Computer scientists seek to advance the fundamental understanding of how information is processed, as well as the practical design of software and hardware to accomplish specific functions. Computer science courses include, but are not limited to, the study of operating system design, networks, programming languages, software engineering, graphics, databases, and artificial intelligence.
Computer science majors are required to complete basic courses in calculus, core courses in programming and mathematical foundations, computer organization, data structures, software engineering, theory, and systems software. An understanding of statistics is also required. Majors select senior-level courses from offerings such as graphics, artificial intelligence, operating systems, compilers, embedded systems, architecture, Internet programming, parallel programming, and database systems. A minor in computer science is also available.
Department of Computer Science laboratories are open to students many hours of the day and on weekends. All major systems are networked and accessible by direct network connection from student residences.
Learning Outcomes
Students will:
· Demonstrate proficiency in the areas of software design and development, computing systems, and theory and mathematics of computer science. Students will, upon completing this program, have a thorough grounding in the key principles and practices of computing, and in the mathematical and scientific principles of computation.
· Communicate ideas effectively, both generally and specifically, with regard to computer science-related subject matter, and independently craft presentations exhibiting coherence, organization, grammatical correctness, style, thesis development, and research.
· Upon completing this program, either attend graduate school in computer science or find professional computer-related employment.
Potential Occupations
Most computer science students are able to find related employment at graduation. The proven performance of Colorado State graduates has resulted in annual recruiting visits by a wide variety of commercial firms, government agencies, and research laboratories. Graduates have found employment with computer manufacturers, software companies, and with research and development teams in manufacturing companies. Internships are available that enhance skills and marketability.
Some career opportunities include, but are not limited to: systems programmer; hardware or software designer; computer researcher; systems administrator; security systems designer; database programmer; consultant; documentation/technical writer; technical product support personnel; technical sales and marketing specialist; educator.
A minimum grade of C is required in CO 150 and in all mathematics, statistics, computer science, and departmental Group II courses which are required for graduation.
MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, MATH 126, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121 are considered review courses; credits in these courses may not be used toward a degree in the computer science major.
Major in Applied Computing Technology
The applied computing technology major is a computer generalist program oriented towards the use of computers and computer applications in specific domains depending on the student’s concentration, rather than towards developing large-scale commercial computer applications and software. Students will receive a strong background in computer programming and information technology applied to a companion subject-specific focus. At this time there are three concentrations: computing and human factors, computing technology, and computing education.
Learning Outcomes
Students completing this program will be able to:
· Write complex and sophisticated computer programs;
· Develop computer applications to be used in a variety of subject areas;
· Develop web sites, including web-based software and databases for use by experts in a broad range of fields;
· Grasp and demonstrate the subject matter of a specific field in which computers are to be used;
· Work effectively in groups to develop solutions to complex, field-specific problems;
· Communicate through writing about their technical activities;
· Make connections between their technical work and the larger social structure.
Computing and Human Factors Concentration
This concentration is designed to meet the demand for experts in human factors in computing and interface design, and provide and academic program for students interested in the interdisciplinary study of cognitive, science and artificial intelligence applied to human-computer interaction.
The program combines computer science courses leading to expertise in artificial intelligence and graphics with cognitive psychology courses and specialized courses in human-computer interaction. This program aims to produce an understanding of human psychological abilities and relate them to computer use and the ergonomics of computational services.
Potential Occupations
This program prepares students for work in computer interface design and organizations evaluating human factors in computer software design. Graduates of this program may go on to become user interface designers and architects, human factors engineers/interaction designers, user tial engineers/researchers, computer interface programmers, computer ergonomics consultants.
For all concentrations of the applied computing technology major, the precalculus mathematics courses (MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, MATH 126, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121) are considered review courses by the department. Credits in these courses, either by examination or completion, may be used towards electives in the program.
Computing Education Concentration
This teacher education program leads to a bachelor of science degree in applied computing technology with a concentration in computing education (K-12 technology education) with state licensure in instructional technology (computers) and provides students with a background in education, computer programming, and computer systems enabling graduates to teach computing principles and serve as computing technology experts in public schools.
Students interested in pursing a teaching license through Colorado State University may refer to the School of Education, College of Applied Human Sciences, section in this catalog for general information. Detailed information about the Educator Licensing Program and licensure requirements are available in the program’s web site (http://soe.cahs.colostate.edu/Licensure) or in room 100 of the Education Building.
Potential Occupations
Graduates of this program can go on to become teachers in public schools and will be capable of teaching a broad range of computing technology: computer applications, web development, and programming, including AP computer science courses. They will also be capable of providing expert information technology support for schools for instructional and administrative purposes.
For all concentrations of the applied computing technology major, the precalculus mathematics courses (MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, MATH 125, MATH 126, M CC 120A-B, and M CC 121) are considered review courses by the department. Credits in these courses, either by examination or completion, may be used towards electives in the program.
