Liberal Arts: Natural Science (Biology) Option Ruth Young

Program Review Team Members Ruth Young Professor, Biology Program Coordinator and Program Review Team Leader, Department of Natural Sciences, NECC Marcy Vozzella Assistant Professor, Chair of Natural Sciences, NECC Mariana Vilhena Instructor, Department of Natural Sciences, NECC Stephen Mathis Professor, English Department, NECC Gary Heisermann Assistant Professor, Biology Department, Salem State College Peter Gaines Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Program Mission Statement The Liberal Arts/Biology Program is designed to prepare students for further study towards the bachelor’s degree in biology by providing coursework and laboratory experiences in biology and other natural sciences, as well as a background in mathematics and the liberal arts.

Consistent with College’s Values Engage our students Collaborative learning Diverse environment Serve other programs High standard of excellence Resource for the community

Hidden Prerequisites (College Reading) Introductory Chemistry Math sequence up to and including Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry

Areas of Strength Dynamic and diverse faculty Student interest in the program Minority interest in the program Academic support for students Expanding and exciting course offerings

Areas for Improvement Laboratory safety procedures Low number of graduates Many students drop out Inadequate plan for dealing with underprepared students

Areas for Improvement Number of full-time chemistry or physics faculty members Availability of full-time faculty to teach in LA/Biology option Outdated technology in the classrooms and laboratories Inadequate financial resources

Resources Requested New desktop computers for the laboratories Electrophoresis equipment Additional wall outlets in laboratories White boards for laboratories A venting system for the microbiology laboratory Product Contracts for faculty to work over the summer cleaning out labs