The Microbiology option prepares students for graduate programs or careers as research associates in a variety of fields (e.g., medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural or environmental biotechnology, medical device, cosmetic, food- and water-quality assurance) in academic, governmental, or industrial labs or in a variety of similar settings. 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 K12 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.