Home >  Academics >  Academic Departments >  Biology and Biomedical Sciences  

Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences

Salve Regina’s Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences provides an understanding of the biological sciences through interactive classroom instruction, practical laboratory experimentation and field study.

We offer both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degree in biology as well as concentrations in environmental sciences and microbiology and minors in biology, environmental studies and neuroscience. Students who choose the Bachelor of Arts may double major in secondary education, which leads to Rhode Island teacher certification in grades 7-12 for biology, while students who choose the Bachelor of Science may elect to complete a second degree in medical technology.

While we expose students to the diversity of modern biology - from the cell to the organism to the environment - we also explore the moral and ethical consequences of new advances in the sciences. With a comprehensive approach to instruction, we engage students in discussions and debates, introduce them to relevant and historical scientific texts and literature, and provide them with access to modern, interactive computer programs and technology.

Most of our courses have a laboratory requirement that serves as an extension of the classroom experience and demonstrates scientific methods through hands-on exploration and discovery. We strongly encourage our majors to participate in exciting research opportunities, whether through our department or through our educational consortium with colleges and universities across New England.

Our challenging curriculum and dedicated faculty help students hone the communication, critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for a career in the biological sciences. While many majors enter graduate programs, including medical, dental and veterinary schools, others find success in the fields of education, research and health care.


												Photo of Hormones and Behavior

Featured Course

Hormones and Behavior
Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
An introduction to the field of behavioral endocrinology, this course is enormously broad in scope, encompassing psychology, cell biology, biochemistry and neurobiology. Hormones in the body and their interactions with internal and external forces influence animal and human behavior. Topics addressed include cellular mechanisms of hormone action, metabolism, stress, sexual differentiation and sexual development, gender identity, hunger, thirst, aggression, affiliation, mating behavior and learning and memory. Designed as an interdisciplinary elective within the neuroscience minor and biology major, this course also attracts students from psychology, anthropology, chemistry, social work and the liberal arts.

Department Spotlight

General Biology lab

Did you ever think a bathing suit might come in handy at your first biology lab? Welcome to Dr. Jameson Chace's General Biology lab, and don't forget a towel.

Did you know?

Students can study abroad
Students can study abroad

In recent years, faculty from the Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences have organized short-term study abroad programs to Belize, Scandinavia and the Galapagos Islands, allowing students to explore sustainability and biological diversity.

Related Groups and Organizations

  • Environmental Club
    The Environmental Club raises awareness of global and local issues surrounding the preservation of the environment.
  • Pre-Med Club
    The Pre-Med Club serves the entire campus by providing information about careers in health.
  • SAILS
    Open to all students, SAILS serves members of the University community who are interested in the life sciences.