Biology - NJCU :: College of Arts and Sciences - NJCU

The Biology Department of NJCU is an inclusive community of scholars committed to academic excellence in the teaching, learning and investigation of the life sciences. (3,4) We work together to cultivate and maintain a scholarly culture that serves as the academic framework for all our endeavors. (3) Our collective purpose is the optimization of the scientific learning experience. (4) This, in part, embraces scientific inquiry, professional ethics, academic integrity, and cooperative and experiential learning. (3,4) In support of the optimal educational experience we embrace underlying proficiencies in communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and technological and information literacy. (3,4,5,8) The mastery of these scientific and intellectual proficiencies will contribute to the realization of each member’s individual academic and career goals, and participation in the regional, national and global scientific communities. (3,4,6,9) We look forward to continuous adaptation to changes in the scientific environment and the evolving social perception of the sciences. (3,6,9)

MISSION STATEMENT

The faculty and staff of the NJCU Biology Department are committed to providing the highest quality education and best learning environment possible for the entire NJCU student population. (3,4) This mission is pursuant to the departmental vision of an inclusive community of scholars committed to academic excellence in the teaching, learning and investigation of the life sciences. (3,4) This mission encompasses our efforts on behalf of both departmental major students and of nonmajor students who enroll in General Studies elective courses offered by the Department. (3,4,5) In conjunction with the efforts of other science departments, our mission thus embraces the ever-unfolding body of scientific knowledge, as well as the ideals of a liberal arts education that serve as the foundation of all educational experiences at NJCU. (7,8) Our commitment to the departmental mission extends beyond the classroom experience to the specific needs of the department’s students, such as, tutoring, advisement, technology, mentoring, instrumentation support, community-building, and maintenance of a departmental library and learning spaces. (7,8) We are committed to offering a range of academic major programs that prepare students for employment and continuing study in academic and biomedical research, the medical professions, the clinical laboratory sciences, science education, and government. (3,6,9) Our educational efforts emphasize our scientific focus, encompassing discipline-specific knowledge, scientific literacy and writing, inquiry-based learning, scientific technology and instrumentation, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and intellectual integrity. (3,4,8) We are committed to continued adaptation of our courses and programs, reflecting the developing and evolving knowledge base, philosophies and practices of the sciences. (5) Through our nonmajor courses and outreach efforts, we endeavor to communicate to the entire NJCU community the scientific methods and habits of mind to prosper within a society having an increasing technological basis. (6) Moreover, the department is committed to living within the larger community of scientists and scholars, both regionally and globally, through collaborative research, cooperative education experiences, articulated educational programs, and assimilation of teaching and learning experiences involving the various environmental, academic, curatorial and research assets of the NJ/NY area. (5,6,9) Overall, these individual commitments will create a range of educational experiences, supportive elements, and human factors that will ensure the retention and graduation of all the Department’s students in a timely and rewarding fashion. (4)

(3) Institutionalize distinguishing themes.

(4) Define a common vision for learning outcomes.

(5) Address new and interdisciplinary content.

(6) Engage proactively with the community and region.

(7) Restructure learner development services.

(8) Employ technology tools pervasively.

(9) Build public awareness and esteem for NJCU.