Biology is Relevant to Human Welfare
What causes cancer? How will global warming affect our natural environment? Can we clone human beings? What are the risks posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria? The discipline of biology is at the center of issues that may profoundly affect our lives. Young people today seem to be looking for careers that will allow them not only to make a good living, but to make the world a better place. The field of biology offers many such opportunities. Many choose the health professions so that they can help people, while others want to help save the natural environment. Some simply are fascinated with living things and want to know more about them. The biology department of Ripon College offers students a program that prepares them for active participation in biology, whatever their specific interests might be.
New Facilities = More Opportunities
The biology
department is housed in the Farr Hall of Science which underwent a
$4.4 million renovation and addition project in 1996-97. The
fall semester of 1997 was our first in the new facilities. Farr
Hall, which also houses the physics and chemistry departments, provides
facilities and technology which emphasize direct discovery of
scientific principles by students working in laboratories. This
continues the hands-on, learner-centered philosophy that characterizes
Ripon College. Laboratory space has been increased by 30 percent
overall, and availability of equipment to first-year students
has increased by 50 percent. The number of students in each laboratory
is a maximum of 12 to 18. The new greenhouse is four times as large
as the previous one. Ripon College ranks as one of the top 200
science programs in the country, according to Peterson’s
Guides, and the renovation and addition project has enhanced that standing.
In Summary
Biology is a dynamic, fast-changing field with rapidly changing technology. Our approach gives students the flexibility and the problem-solving experience needed to succeed in such a field whether they decide to take a job in industry or business or to continue their education in graduate or professional school.
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