Biological Laboratory Science Degree

Creating tomorrow's scientists today

Bachelor of Science – Biological Laboratory Science (120 credits)

Gain the strong foundation you need to launch your career as a laboratory scientist or to pursue a postgraduate degree in areas like science, biomedical research, biotech and pharma with the bachelor of science in biological laboratory science at Davenport University. Delivered on Davenport’s W.A. Lettinga Campus in Grand Rapids, along with some Online+ course offerings. What's more, you can take your biological laboratory science focus to the next level by becoming a STEM educator in Davenport's urban education program. By applying for the FUSE scholarship you may gain full ride tuition during your junior and senior years.

You’ll graduate with a unique combination of lab science skills and soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, through this biomedical science degree program. You’ll learn lab science from expert faculty who bring a mix of academic and industry experience to the classroom from fields like biology, chemistry, pharmacy, chiropractic and environmental sciences.

Already have an associate degree in biotechnology? Great! We’ll shorten your time to degree completion and put you on the fast-track to your career or post-undergraduate schooling.

What is biological lab science?

Biological lab science involves researching, analyzing or producing medications, vaccines or other genetically modified products, such as plants or animals for human consumption. If you like to solve problems and want a hands-on science career, the laboratory science degree at Davenport may be ideal for you. You’ll be prepared to work as a laboratory scientist, research associate or technician in academic, industrial and government settings — or to go on to med school or other professional programs such as dentistry, veterinary, occupational therapy, physical therapy or even pharmacy school.

Explore laboratory science classes for Davenport’s BS biological laboratory science

Through the BS biological laboratory science program, you’ll build on Davenport’s core courses with laboratory science classes and labs in chemistry, organic chemistry and physics as well as courses specific to the laboratory science degree such as bioinformatics, laboratory techniques, cell biology, organisms, microbiology, genetics, science ethics and forensic science.

See Full Course List

Foundations of Excellence		37 Credits
ACES100	AchieveCareer/EducationSuccess This course presents the skills needed for university success and initiates students to career planning and development. Students evaluate their abilities and interests in order to develop career goals and align these goals with an appropriate course of study. Through a career investigation project, students are introduced to research techniques. Students also improve on academic skills necessary to successfully complete university work, such as critical thinking, study techniques, and test taking strategies. In addition, students are introduced to important dynamics of interpersonal communication and conflict resolution. The course also orients students to the University, to the Davenport University Excellence System, and to other elements of the Davenport curriculum. (This course is required for all new business, health, and technology students, except those transferring with 30 or more semester credits.) Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/h	3
BITS211	Microcomp Appl Spreadsheet Students create and manipulate spreadsheets with MS Excel to solve business applications. It is expected that students have a familiarity with spreadsheet software, as the course quickly progresses to advanced features, including data validation, linked workbooks, pivot tables, lookup functions, solver, and scenario manager. By the end of the semester, students will have the prerequisite skills to take applicable certification testing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH120 or MATH125	3
BITS212	Microcomputer Apps Database Students learn to create and manipulate databases to solve business applications. The course begins with the basic structure and configuration of tables, queries, forms, and reports. It then advances to more complex queries, custom forms and reports, macros, and the integration of databases with the web and other programs. At the end of the semester, students combine these features into a functional database which has a user-friendly interface. By the end of the semester, students will have the prerequisite skills to take applicable certification testing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CISP100	3
COMM120	Presentation Techniques This course introduces and applies the theories and principles of effective communication. Students learn to organize and present clear, logical messages to specific audiences. They develop confidence in public speaking and increase their ability to inform and persuade listeners. They also implement critical thinking and listening skills. Finally, students exhibit the skills and tools necessary to construct, organize, and deliver effective speeches. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
ENGL109	Composition This course introduces students to expository and persuasive writing. Employing critical thinking and the writing process, students will compose academic essays utilizing a variety of modes. They will also analyze and respond to a variety of academic and professional readings. Students will evaluate information and audience to improve form and content. Students are also introduced to the research process, including finding, evaluating, and documenting sources, to complete a short research project using the American Psychological Association Style. Note: ENGL109L is a 0 credit hour lab utilized in the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP). Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Appropriate test scores or successful completion of ENGL021. Student must also complete a diagnostic writing sample.	3
ENGL110	Advanced Composition This course further develops the skills in expository and persuasive writing that were introduced in ENGL109, English Composition. Students develop critical thinking through the creation of essays and documents that use argumentation and persuasion. As a team, students collaborate to present a required assignment to the class. Students learn to research, evaluate, and incorporate information from both primary and secondary sources, to document secondary sources using APA format, and to analyze information and audiences to improve form and content. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL109	3
ENGL311	Professional Writing This course develops the written and presentation skills necessary for success in professional, supervisory, or managerial positions. Emphasis on communication in both on-paper and digital media is included. Students also learn to use a variety of formats, styles, and delivery systems to achieve the clear, concise, and professional communication required to communicate in global markets. To stress the importance of workplace communication, students create a major professional document as a team. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL110 and COMM120	3
MATH120	College Mathematics Students in this course will explore and apply college-level mathematical concepts so as to enhance their critical and creative thinking skills. This course aims to increase students' appreciation of the utility and application of mathematics. Topics will include i) problem solving, ii) set theory and real numbers, iii) linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and iv) probability. Other topics of interest will be selected from graph theory, prime numbers, logic, number representation, and voting theory. Fees: Additional course fees apply. Prerequisite(s): Appropriate test scores, placement criteria, or successful completion of MATH 030	3
MATH150	Pre-Calculus This course is designed to prepare students for the traditional calculus sequence. Topics include: brief review of algebra, solving equations and inequalities, systems of linear and nonlinear equations, the properties and graphs of relations and functions (including polynomial, radical, rational, logarithmic, exponential, and trigonometric), zeros of polynomial functions, trigonometry, conic sections, polar coordinates. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Completion of MATH120 or MATH125 with a C or above	4
SOSC201	Diversity in Society This course introduces students to the complex issues surrounding diversity in U.S. society and to the need for understanding difference in an increasingly globalized world. Students will explore the social-historical context of multiple experiences on individual, cultural and institutional levels. They will analyze the complex interactions regarding diversity in organizations. Students will also evaluate their own thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors in order to understand their roles in a diverse society. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
SOSC301	Global & World Diversity This course introduces students to socioeconomic, political and cultural dimensions of globalization. While employing an interdisciplinary approach, students explore the aspects and driving forces of globalization. Students analyze how macro globalization processes that transcend national boundaries, such as democratization, human rights, global finance, terrorism, pandemics, and environmental changes, impact lives of individuals in various regions of the world. The students critically assess the current and future impacts of issues, payoffs, dangers, and paradoxes of people’s choices about the global issues while emphasizing an institutional approach to resolving global problems. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL109 and SOSC201	3
STAT219	Introduction to Biostatistics This course introduces students to foundational statistical methods common to the medical and health fields. Students will learn how to use the collection, analysis, presentation, and interpretation of data in the context of the health sciences. Analysis of real-world data sets will be performed using statistical software. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): MATH120 or MATH125	3

Science Courses		28 Credits
CHEM160	General Chemistry I First semester of a two semester course. This course introduces the student to the basic theories and concepts in chemistry. Topics that will be covered include: atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry, quantum theory, states of matter and solutions. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): CHEM160L Prerequisite(s): MATH 120 or MATH125	3
CHEM160L	General Chemistry I Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course supplements the learning in CHEM160. It is an introduction to fundamental principles and techniques of chemistry. Emphasis is placed on basic chemical theories, stoichiometry, properties of solutions, gas laws, and thermochemistry applications. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): CHEM160 Prerequisite(s): MATH 120 or MATH125	1
CHEM161	General Chemistry II This is the second semester of a two semester sequence. This course expands on previously gained knowledge and introduces the student to additional basic theories and concepts in chemistry. Topics that will be covered include: reaction rates, chemical equilibrium, acid-base equilibria, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, chemistry of metals/nonmetals and organic chemistry. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): CHEM161L or CHEM160V Prerequisite(s): CHEM160 and CHEM160L or CHEM160V	3
CHEM161L	General Chemistry II Lab	1
CHEM250	Organic Chemistry I This is the first semester of a two semester sequence. This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts necessary for understanding organic molecules and their significance in biological systems. Topics include classes of organic compounds, nomenclature, covalent bonding, stereochemistry, spectroscopy and reaction mechanisms. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Co-requisite(s): CHEM250L Prerequisite(s): CHEM161 and CHEM161L or CHEM161V	3
CHEM250L	Organic Chemistry I Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course highlights the concepts learned in lecture. Students will learn and employ techniques for the preparation, isolation, purification and characterization of organic molecules. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Co-requisite(s): CHEM250 Prerequisite(s): CHEM161 and CHEM161L	1
CHEM255	Organic Chemistry II This is the second semester of a two semester sequence. Topics include structure and reactions of aromatic compounds, carbonyl compounds, carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids; nomenclature of organic compounds; synthesis; and reaction techniques. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Co-requisite(s): CHEM255L Prerequisite(s): CHEM250 and CHEM250L or CHEM250V	3
CHEM255L	Organic Chemistry II Lab (4 contact hours) This second semester laboratory course builds on the foundation set in the first semester. Students will use the separation and purification techniques and synthetic skills learned from the first semester to complete more challenging synthetic tasks. An emphasis will be put on product yield and purity. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Co-requisite(s): CHEM255 Prerequisite(s): CHEM250 and CHEM250L	1
CHEM310	Biochemistry The fundamentals of biochemistry will be presented, emphasizing a broad understanding of chemical events in living systems in terms of metabolism and structure-function relationships of lipids, amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. An understanding of the metabolic basis of disease and relevance to human physiology and medicine is highlighted. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): CHEM310L Recommended Prerequisite(s): CHEM255 and CHEM255L Prerequisite(s): BIOL354 and BIOL354L	3
CHEM310L	Biochemistry Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course builds upon laboratory skills commonly used by biological laboratory professionals. Project based laboratory instruction includes isolation and characterization of proteins and other biomolecules; computational biochemistry including enzyme kinetics and inhibition, data acquisition/statistics, genomic and proteomic databases, and molecular modeling; spectroscopy (UV/VIS), chromatography (gel filtration, ion exchange, affinity), electrophoretic techniques (PAGE, agarose gel); and genetic engineering techniques, DNA isolation, sequencing, cloning, PCR, and microarrays. Course structure emphasizes research application of techniques and instrumentation. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): CHEM310 Recommended Prerequisite(s): CHEM255 and CHEM255L Prerequisite(s): BIOL354 and BIOL354L	1
PHYS210	Fundamentals of Physics I This course introduces the fundamental mechanics of physics. The physical properties of motion, matter, phases, thermodynamics, heat, vibrations and sound will be discussed. Methods for quantitative and qualitative analyses of physical properties will be introduced. This course is the first in a two-course sequence introducing students to the fundamentals of physics. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.. Co-requisite(s): PHYS210L Prerequisite(s): MATH150	3
PHYS210L	Fundamentals of Physics I Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course introduces the fundamental mechanics of physics through hands-on and/or virtual laboratory experiments. Experiments involving physical properties of motion, matter, phases, thermodynamics, heat, vibrations and sound will be done. Methods, including the scientific method, for quantitative and qualitative analyses of physical properties will be introduced. This laboratory course is the first in a two-course laboratory sequence introducing students to the fundamentals of physics. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): PHYS210 Prerequisite(s): MATH150	1
PHYS220	Fundamentals of Physics II This course is the second in a two-course sequence introducing students to the fundamentals of physics. This course builds on the knowledge learned in Fundamentals of Physics I. The physical properties of electricity, magnetism, optics, relativity, and nuclear physics will be discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): PHYS220L Prerequisite(s): PHYS210 and PHYS210L	3
PHYS220L	Fundamentals of Physics II Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course is the second in a two-course laboratory sequence introducing students to the fundamentals of physics. This course builds on the knowledge learned in Fundamentals of Physics Laboratory I through hands-on and/or virtual laboratory experiments. Experiments involving physical properties of electricity, magnetism, optics, relativity, and nuclear physics will be done. Methods, including the scientific method, for quantitative and qualitative analyses of physical properties will be used. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): PHYS220 Prerequisite(s): PHYS210 and PHYS210L	1

Major		41 Credits
BIOL110	Foundations of Cell Biology This course provides a foundation in fundamental biological and cellular concepts common to plants, animals, and microorganisms. Topics include the chemical and molecular basis of life, metabolism, cellular reproduction, principles of inheritance, and evolution. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL110L	3
BIOL110L	Foundation of Cell Biology Lab (2 contact hours) This course is designed to provide the laboratory fundamentals of biological science at the cellular level. Students will focus on the scientific method, cellular structure and function, cellular energetics, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, genetics, and heredity. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL110	1
BIOL111	Organisms and Populations This second semester course provides a foundation in the study of biological systems at the organismal level. Students are introduced to structure and physiology of living organisms, evolution and general ecological principles. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL111L or BIOL111V Prerequisite(s): BIOL110 and BIOL110L or BIOL110V	3
BIOL111L	Organisms and Populations Lab (2 contact hours) This course is designed to provide the fundamentals of biological science at the organismal level in a virtual lab setting. Students will focus on the scientific method, evolution, biodiversity, plant and animal physiology, and ecology. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL111 Prerequisite(s): BIOL110 and BIOL110L	1
BIOL209	Techniques in Lab Science This course is designed to equip students with the skill set necessary for employment as life science laboratory professionals. Students will learn and practice various lab techniques in a life science laboratory setting. The course will focus on standard laboratory procedures and common laboratory mathematical calculations, procedure documentation and record keeping, solution and media preparation, quality control and quality assurance protocols, specimen handling and storage, as well as regulatory policies and laboratory safety. Course activities are designed to facilitate the application of course content toward development of critical thinking and laboratory problem solving skills. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): BIOL111/BIOL111L, CHEM161/CHEM161L and MATH150	4
BIOL211	Microbiology This course presents a comprehensive overview of the role of microbes in disease processes, and is designed for the student in health sciences. Students compare human microbial pathogens with respect to their structure, function, host selection, reservoirs, modes of transmission, host effects, and vulnerability to various treatment regimens. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL211L Prerequisite(s): BIOL110 and BIOL110L	3
BIOL211L	Microbiology Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course presents a comprehensive overview of the role of microbes in disease processes, and is designed for the student in health sciences. Students learn skills applicable to the clinical laboratory, including aseptic techniques, microbial culture, and antimicrobial resistance testing. Students also compare human microbial pathogens with respect to their structure, function, reservoirs, modes of transmission, host effects, and vulnerability to various treatment regimens. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL211 Prerequisite(s): BIOL110 and BIOL110L	1
BIOL336	Genetics This course presents an introduction to both classical and molecular genetics. Classic genetic concepts covered include Mendelian and Non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance, as well as linkage and chromosome mapping in eukaryotes and bacteria and bacteriophages. Molecular genetics topics include DNA structure, replication, mutation, and DNA repair; regulation of gene expression in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes; recombination and transposition at the molecular level. Genetic technologies including functional genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, recombinant DNA, and biotechnology will be introduced and reinforced. Course content will facilitate student understanding of genetic analysis of individuals and populations. Special topics covered will include medical genetics and cancer and developmental genetics. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): BIOL211/BIOL211L and MATH150	4
BIOL354	Cell & Molecular Biology This course presents a detailed examination of cellular systems and cell to cell interactions. Course content course will expand in depth upon the relationship between cellular structure and function: interactions between DNA, RNA and protein biosynthesis and how these interactions are regulated; Cellular growth and metabolism; and differences in cellular function amongst prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms including bacterial, plant and animal cells. Concepts regarding regulatory mechanisms of action and the interdependence of intracellular systems will be emphasized. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL354L Prerequisite(s): BIOL336	3
BIOL354L	Cell & Molecular Biology Lab (2 contact hours) This laboratory course is designed to provide foundational laboratory experience for future biological laboratory science professionals. Course content introduces students to techniques commonly used in the cellular molecular laboratory including cell fractionation, cell growth and enzyme kinetics, DNA restriction enzyme analysis, and recombinant DNA technology including cloning and transformation. Laboratory exercises highlight the usage of instrumentation and project based research applications of various techniques in the study of cellular processes. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL354 Prerequisite(s): BIOL336	1
BIOL382	Science Ethics Students will examine the ethical issues concerning how scientific studies are conducted, and will be guided in how to make well-reasoned responses to ethical dilemmas encountered in science as well as how to apply established guidelines to ensure the dignity of scientific investigations. Topics could include experimentation with animal and human subjects, conflicts of interest, social responsibility, whistleblowing and guiding the integrity of scientific investigations. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Achieve Senior Status	3
BIOL430	Advanced Microbiology This course applies the knowledge acquired in introductory microbiology to address current research topics including emerging infectious diseases, antibiotic resistance, microbial biotechnology, virology and microbial ecology and diversity. The biomedical applications of immuno-genetics and molecular immunology will also be explored. Cases studies and problem-based learning methods will be utilized to present course content. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL430L Recommended Prerequisite(s): BIOL354/BIOL354L Prerequisite(s): BIOL211/BIOL211L	3
BIOL430L	Advanced Microbiology Lab (2 contact hours) This course builds on the concepts and laboratory techniques introduced in BIOL211L (Microbiology lab) and their utilization in Environmental, Industrial, and Food Microbiology. Students will also gain experience working with Microbial Biotechnology and Immunological assays and techniques. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of microbiology laboratory skills in the workplace. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL430 Recommended Prerequisite(s): BIOL354/BIOL354L Prerequisite(s): BIOL211/BIOL211L	1
BIOL458	Forensic Science This is a survey course covering the application of biological laboratory sciences in solving crimes. Topics covered include legal documentation, assessing a potential crime scene, forensic investigation techniques, ballistics, forensic anthropology, wildlife forensics, proper sampling techniques, becoming an expert witness, importance of DNA analysis and industrial/environmental forensics. Lecture and laboratory elements are integrated. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL458L Prerequisite(s): BIOL354/BIOL354L and CHEM310/CHEM310L	3
BIOL458L	Forensic Science Lab (2 contact hours) This is a laboratory course to be taken in conjunction with BIOL458 Forensic Science. This course provides the field and laboratory experience associated with proper sampling of crime scenes (DNA, fingerprints, chemicals, biological, ballistic wounds, knife/tool wounds, examination of hair/blood/fiber and other items typically found in a variety of crime scenes). Additionally, this course will cover field identification, collection, and proper handling of forensic evidence for submission to a crime lab. Lecture and laboratory elements are integrated. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): BIOL458 Prerequisite(s): BIOL354/BIOL354L and CHEM310/CHEM310L	1
BIOL486	Introduction to Bioinformatics This course is designed to equip students with the basic skills in bioinformatics that use the power of computer science to address biological questions from several scientific disciplines to analyze proteins for drug development, annotate novel genomes, and examine evolutionary relationships. The topics covered in this class provide an application focus and include sequence and structure location in publicly accessible databases, genomic organization with some emphasis on eukaryotic genomics, sequence alignments, structural alignments, multiple sequence alignments, phylogeny, domain identification, protein modeling, active site recognition, ligand docking, systems biology, metabolic pathway regulation and gene expression. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CHEM310 and CHEM310L Prerequisite(s): BIOL336, BITS212, and STAT219 or STAT220	3
BIOL494	Foundations of Research Students must take this course the semester before the BLS Capstone, BIOL496. This course lays the groundwork for designing and carrying out the required capstone research project in the biological sciences. Students will conduct a literature review of a chosen area of science, write a research proposal, and design experiments applying the processes of science. Students will learn the components of a scientific research paper and presentation. By the end of the course, students will choose a faculty mentor for their capstone research project. A grade of C or better is required to pass this course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	1
BIOL496	BLS Capstone Students in this course will complete a capstone project that consists of a mentored research project on a biological topic. The capstone project will be designed or chosen by the student in consultation with a faculty mentor. The project will include evaluation of data and communication of the study intent, methods, results, interpretation, and conclusion in a report written and student presentation. This course fulfills the University’s experiential learning requirement. A grade of C or better is required to pass this course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Achieve Junior or Senior status; successful completion of BIOL494 Foundations of Research in the prior semester.	2

Open Electives - Student may choose any discipline for the electives. Recommended Elective:		14 Credits
BIOL490	Laboratory Internship Attend Mandatory Internship Workshop at least two semesters prior to your desired internship course semester. The required internship workshop and approval process can be found at:https://my.davenport.edu/internships This bachelor-level internship is the integration of previous classroom instruction with new learning acquired through on-the-job work experience. The experience should be related as closely as possible to the student’s major field and individual interest. 150 hours of career-related work time shall be required for the 3 credit course pursued. Internship hours will be scheduled in partnership between the student and the site and reported via weekly reports filed by the student in the academic course. Students will be supported to identify site possibilities; however, responsibility for selection by the internship employer rests with the student. The internship may be either paid or unpaid. An appropriate faculty member and the internship site supervisor will evaluate the s	3

Recommended Electives if Interested in Education and Teaching:		(9) Credits
SOSC238	Risk & Resilience in Family This course will provide students with a basic understanding of child and family development and the complex nature of family risk and resilience. Students will examine current public policies and safety net programs, particularly in the areas of child protection and strengthening families. Using relevant models, students will identify and apply appropriate strategies and assessments to increase personal and family resilience. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL109	3
UEDU191	Tutoring in Urban Schools This course prepares students to tutor multi-cultural students within urban schools. Special emphasis will be placed on active learning and understanding the youth experience in a multicultural environment. Successful completers will be able to collaborate with culturally responsive mentor teachers to learn how to effectively connect with students of various ethnic, racial, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Students will gain real-world experience in developing tutoring lessons and working one-on-one with diverse learners. Strategies which utilize technology to facilitate student engagement in self-directed instruction will also be introduced. The experiential learning component of this course will be observed and students will receive feedback and coaching on their teaching practices. Students enrolled in the BS in Urban STEM Education program must take this for one credit. For each credit hour there will be 15 contact hours of coursework and 30 hours of service. Applicable Co	1
UEDU192	Teacher Assist Urban Schools In this course, students will observe and begin to cultivate the necessary skills, approaches, and mindsets needed to become an effective multicultural educator. Special emphasis will be placed on active volunteering, observing, and interviewing educators serving in various roles within an urban school setting. Successful completers will gain practical experience assisting teachers and observe how they use culturally responsive teaching practices in a diverse classroom. Students will also observe how teachers utilize technology and various educational resources to foster academic success. The service learning component of this course will be observed and students will receive feedback and coaching on their teaching practices. Students enrolled in the BS in Urban STEM Education program must take this for two credits. For each credit hour, there will be 15 contact hours of coursework and 30 hours of service. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid	2
UEDU330	Multicultural Teaching Pract In this course students will learn about the historical evolution of multicultural education through exposure to key concepts as well as theoretical models from both research and practical perspectives. The impact of race, gender, second language acquisition, poverty, class and religion on teaching and learning will be examined. Students will learn strategies and tools that incorporate knowledge of culture in the development of effective classroom management and teaching practices. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL110 and SOSC201	3

Which class should I take? When should I take it?

See our Recommended Program Sequences:

4+1

Earn a 4+1 teaching certification to teach STEM in K-12 schools

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of Davenport grads are employed within six months of graduation

Why study lab science at Davenport?

You’ll learn from Davenport’s expert faculty who have real-life experience in a wide range of areas, from biology and pharmacy to chiropractic and environmental science. Labs, simulations and internships are woven into the curriculum of the BS biological laboratory science so you graduate with real-world experience and practical knowledge.

Experience the Davenport difference:

One and only

Davenport’s laboratory science degree is the only one of its kind in Michigan and one of only a few in the country.

Get into med school

Davenport’s biomedical science degree program is great prep for med school, pharmacy school and other professional programs.

Become an expert problem-solver

Through labs, simulations and internships you can apply what you learn to improve your problem-solving capabilities.

Hands-on practice

Serve as a supplemental instructor, present lab science research at conferences, act as a lab assistant and assist with research.

Career prep

Work in a range of science research labs, including biotech manufacturers of genetically engineered vaccines, drugs and more.

Fast-track your career

Shorten your time to degree completion when you bring your associate degree in biotech to BS biological laboratory science.

Get started on your laboratory science degree

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward earning your laboratory science degree at Davenport.

Talk to an admissions advisor

Davenport’s admissions team is here to answer your questions. Please call us at 800.686.1600 or email us at info@davenport.edu.

Apply now or request more information

Start on your future in lab science, biomedical research or a professional program. Request more information or begin your application now.

Davenport programs related to the laboratory science degree

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

Bachelor in Science in Urban STEM Education

Additional resources

About Davenport University

Davenport is a private, not-for-profit university with more than 150 years of experience preparing students for successful careers.

Student in a lab coat looking through a microscope

5 careers you can pursue with a lab science degree

Explore five possible career paths you can follow with Davenport’s biomedical science degree program.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program the student will obtain a well-rounded and diverse science education. They will possess the knowledge, laboratory skills and soft skills necessary to hit the ground running, and to be successful upon graduating and entering into a growing and solid job market in the Science field.

Students will learn the skills necessary to think critically, communicate effectively and to solve problems collaboratively in a team environment or working independently.

In addition, through unique case study coursework, students will possess competencies in intercultural awareness and ethical reasoning.

All BIOL, CHEM and PHYS prefixed courses required for the BS Biological Sciences degree program require a C or better grade for successful completion.

*If the career intent is pre-medicine/pre-dental/pre-veterinary medicine, consider completing BIOL221/221L Anatomy and Physiology I and BIOL222/222L Anatomy and Physiology II as electives

Faculty and Staff

Department Chair & Assistant Professor - Science: Sharon Sutliff, D.C.

Associate Department Chair & Assistant Professor - Science: Daniel Palmatier, Pharm.D.

Assistant Professor - Science: Saleela Hollingsworth, Ph.D.

Lab Coordinator & Full-Time Faculty - Science: Ahlam Kader, M.Sc.

Assistant Professor & Science Laboratory Coordinator - Lansing Campus: Laura Harris, M.S.

Assistant Professor & Science Laboratory Coordinator - Midland Campus: Kris Baumgarten, Ph.D.

Associate Department Chair & Associate Professor - Science: Melissa Haswell, Ph.D.

Some programs require a student to complete a portion of their degree plan off-campus.
View a full list of those programs and courses

Source:

DU Graduate Survey, 2023

Bachelor's in Biological Laboratory Science