Fall 2006, Volume 10, No. 1

Frequently Asked Questions ...

About Macon State's B.S. in Biology and B.S. in Mathematics

Q. Tell me about the bachelor of science in biology.
A. Macon State's bachelor of science with a major in biology is designed to meet growing occupational demands in two areas. The first area is for students interested in health and science-related careers of various kinds and is designated the biology track. This track is designed to provide students with the necessary undergraduate course work to prepare them for graduate or professional programs in such areas as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacology and physical therapy. Also, graduates of this track can apply their undergraduate degree toward such careers as medical lab technology and dietetics. The second area is addressed by the biology education track. This track prepares students for certification to teach biology at the high school level.

Q. Describe the bachelor of science in mathematics.
A. Macon State's bachelor of science with a major in mathematics is designed to meet growing occupational demands in two areas. The applied math track will prepare students to enter professions requiring foundations in analytical training and qualify them for positions as statisticians, actuaries, cost estimators, science technicians and similar careers. In Central Georgia, Robins Air Force Base and the aerospace industry have extensive needs for graduates with strong mathematics backgrounds. The math education track in the program will prepare students to become high school teachers and help address shortages of secondary math educators in Central Georgia.

Q.When will these degree programs be available?
A. Macon State will introduce some of the upper-level courses during spring semester 2007, which begins January 8. The programs will be officially initiated in the fall 2007 semester. The Division of Education will begin offering education courses in the education tracks in biology and mathematics upon receiving NCATE (teacher accreditation) and Georgia Professional Standards Commission program approval.

Q. Will graduates of these programs in the teacher education tracks have degrees in education?
A. No. Students in the teacher education tracks will earn the same degree as those in non-education tracks. Mathematics majors will receive the bachelor of science degree with a major in mathematics and biology majors will receive the bachelor of science degree with a major in biology. The main difference with students completing the education tracks is that they will be eligible for certification to teach math or science in secondary schools.

Q. Would I have to pass a state or national exam to be certified to teach math or biology in high school?
A. Yes, students in the degree program must pass the GACE, the state of Georgia's teacher certification test in the subject content area to teach either biology or mathematics in high school.

Q. How many credit hours do these degree programs consist of?
A. The biology and applied mathematics tracks will require 122 hours. The biology education track requires 129 hours and the mathematics education track requires 128 hours.

Q. Can students pursue these degrees part-time?
A. Students may be able to complete the degrees on a part-time basis. However, they should work closely with their advisors to schedule courses so they can complete the program in a timely fashion.

Q. How much does it cost to attend Macon State College?
A. For students living in Central Georgia, Macon State is by far the most convenient and affordable option to get a bachelor's degree. Tuition and mandatory fees for a full-time student taking junior- and senior-level classes can be found at www.maconstate.edu/businessoffice/fees.aspx.

Q. Is financial aid available for these degree programs?
A. Macon State's financial aid office can explain possible financial aid options. Call (478) 471-2717 or (800) 272-7619 or email fainfo@maconstate.edu. Students who are employed as secondary school teachers in mathematics or science upon completion of their program and meet federal guidelines may receive up to $17,500 in student loan forgiveness. Additional information is available at http://studentaid.ed.gov/. Click on the "Repaying" tab.

Q. How do I get started?
A. Online information request cards are at www.maconstate.edu. You may also call Dr. Eric Sun, chair of the Division of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, at (478) 471-2751.

If you have other questions, please view other areas of our Website, or call: (478) 471-2800 or (800) 272-7619.