Biology Biology, the study of life, investigates the origins, development, structure and function of all forms of life. The program at Saint Peter’s University begins with a series of required courses that expose students to the major branches of biology. This is followed by an elective program which offers an in-depth learning experience required for professional and graduate studies, and advanced research.
Concentration in Forensic Science The concentration in Forensic Science allows students to obtain a science-oriented degree that is supported by professional courses in forensic science and criminal justice within the context of a liberal arts education. The field of forensic science is recognized as a respected discipline among scientists and others in criminal justice, chemistry, biology and physics. This concentration, offered through the Department of Biology, is built upon the foundation of the University’s well-established programs in biology, chemistry, criminal justice and psychology.
Our science courses prepare students for careers in the health sciences, teaching, and research. We offer programs in Biology, Chemistry, and Biotechnology.
Special Learning Opportunities Research: Due to the diverse interests of the faculty (all of whom hold Ph.D.s) individual opportunities for study and research are available in microbiology, physiology, developmental biology, invertebrate zoology, parasitology, genetics, cell and molecular biology, plant biology and ecology. Pre-Professional Programs: Students interested in healthcare fields (such as pre-medicine, pre-veterinary and pre-dental) are encouraged to major in one of the natural sciences which include coursework in chemistry, biology and physics required for admission to those professional schools. The Health Careers Advisor, Dr. Katherine Wydner, guides students in planning for health-related careers. Pre-Med Program: Through affiliations with Rutgers University, Saint Peter’s offers joint degree programs for highly motivated students with strong academic records. These accelerated programs lead to degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, and medical laboratory science. Our newest partnership is with the Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM). This partnership has created an educational pathway to study medicine at RUSM and qualified students may receive a scholarship covering tuition for their first semester. The Transformative Experiences (TREX) Program (NSF #1832464) is an NSF supported opportunity for students in STEM majors (Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics) to engage in a paid STEM internship experience that also counts for academic credit.
For course descriptions and additional information visit
www.saintpeters.edu/academics 11/21
Student Clubs and Organizations The Mendel Biology Society is a student-run club, open to students from any academic program within Saint Peter’s University who are interested in topics relating to biology. The Mendel club strives to hold regular meetings, organizes social and educational activities, schedules special events, and helps support the Distinguished Lecture Series. Every spring, the Biology Department and the Mendel Society organize the Mendel Biology Lecture. The Mendel Lecture is the longest running annual lecture series in the history of Saint Peter’s University. S.A.V.E. stands for Students Against Violating the Earth. This environmental club sponsors an annual Earth Day festival, hikes, and environmental service field trips. The Tribeta Biological Honor Society requires the following for membership: 3.3 GPA in Biology & General Cumulative for Regular member, 2.8 GPA in Biology & General Cumulative for Associate member, and completion of three or more Biology courses. The Health Professions Club offers students who are interested in health careers a chance to meet other students who share their own interests. This club holds many events and invites outside speakers to shed light on the pathway to many careers in the health sciences.
Studying the World More than 20% of Saint Peter’s students choose to take part in credit bearing travel courses in India, China, Cuba, and many other areas of the world. They often find the experience life-changing as they make connections between what they learn in the classroom and the unique places they visit. For many students, this is an opportunity to expand their horizons beyond their own experiences. For all students, study abroad trips help shape awareness of the world in which we live.
Biology students traveled to the Amazon rainforest in Peru as part of an environmental studies course. The trip required students to immerse themselves in high-impact learning as they studied plants, birds, mammals and insects along the Amazon River.
Not an experienced globe trotter? That’s OK, because the faculty who plan short-term study courses arrange travel, hotels, and dining, as well as schedule time for individual exploration. Students enrolling in semester-long travel are part of a university campus abroad, making a home away from Saint Peter’s campus.
Biology Faculty Saint Peter’s faculty members are scholars and expert teachers. They are interested in preparing students for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service in a global society. Biology program faculty members include: Christina Mortellaro, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Chair Director, Health Sciences Programs Director, Core Curriculum & Student Learning Outcomes Assessment
John Ruppert, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
Jill E. Callahan, Ph.D. Associate Professor
Jeanette Wilmanski, Ph.D. Associate Professor
Brandy Garrett Kluthe, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
Katherine S. Wydner, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Health Careers Advisor
Denver Jn Baptiste, Ph.D. Assistant Professor For course descriptions and additional information visit
www.saintpeters.edu/academics
Laura H. Twersky, Ph.D. Professor