1Demonstrate subject-matter competency, including the mastery of biological theories.

2Demonstrate skills in critical thinking. These skills include understanding scientific methods, solving biology-related problems, interpreting and analyzing primary literature in biology, and interpreting data in a meaningful way.

3Demonstrate knowledge of the path leading to specific careers in biology.

4Exhibit proficiency in the physiology, biochemistry, and genetics of bacteria including diversity, metabolism, and gene expression regulation as well as key metabolic control mechanisms.

5Be familiar with taxonomic, ecological, and phylogenetic relationships among microorganisms including biogeochemical nutrient cycling, microbial diversity, and the biotechnological application of microbes to address environmental and energy problems.

6Able to demonstrate knowledge of how evolutionary forces impact and shape microbial function and activity.

7Able to efficiently communicate scientific information or results from biological investigations using both oral and written methods.

8Able to demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method including hypothesis generation and testing, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

9Demonstrate an understanding of prokaryotic cell structure and the major physiological processes of microorganisms that are critical for metabolism, function, and utilization of ecological niches.