The B.A. degree is designed for students seeking a broad foundation in biology as part of a liberal education in the arts and sciences. Provided that careful attention is paid to the requirements for advanced (postbaccalaureate) and professional programs, the B.A. degree is appropriate for those students (1) preparing for dentistry, medicine, optometry, pharmacy or veterinary medicine, (2) seeking a teaching credential or (3) intending to enter a graduate program. The B.A. degree is also suitable for careers in such areas as pharmaceutical sales and medical illustration (see Pre-Medical and Pre-Professional Information). In congruence with the mission of the College of Science and Mathematics, the Department of Biology teaches students to become more scientifically literate citizens, prepares students to enter graduate programs, generates a pool of local and national scientists capable of assuming leadership roles in industry and education, trains K–12 teachers to become competent educators in the sciences, and produces students for biomedical programs, such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and pharmacy.<br><br>The Department of Biology is dedicated to moving science toward a more diverse, inclusive and equitable discipline, countering a historical overrepresentation of a privileged subset of voices, and pledging to respect and welcome dialogue that values diverse scientific perspectives. Through its teaching, research and service to the students, University and community at large, the Department of Biology is dedicated to making institutional changes to ensure science is more accessible, safe and welcoming to all.