Curriculum

The BRSS academic program is centered around an intensive laboratory experience, but also features seminars and courses. Students will normally take 12-16 credits, constituted as follows:

Lab research experience (4 credits). The core of the program is an intensive internship in a Rockefeller University laboratory. Each student in the program is assigned to a Rockefeller University scientist and performs substantial independent research in his/her laboratory. The student spends at least 20 hours per week in the lab. Students also work with their supervisors on a research paper on the student's research. The paper is presented publicly at the end of the semester and is evaluated by the supervisor together with faculty from Bard's Annandale campus.
Research methods (2 credits). Paralleling their in-depth hands-on lab research, this course provides a means for students to learn more about the scientific process. Topics include hypothesis development, experimental design, data collection, ethics, and statistical analysis. The course is based directly on the students' ongoing research experience and supports the development of a student's research proposal, research paper, and final presentation.
Core seminar: Contemporary issues in the biological sciences (2 credits). The core seminar will focus on contemporary problems in the sciences. The seminar consists of selected lectures from Rockefeller's Friday Lecture Series and presentations by Rockefeller faculty and visitors. For each presentation, students are assigned readings and submit written reports prior to the presentations.
Courses on science and world issues (4-8 credits). The BRSS and BGIA programs offer two courses each year that examine science from a larger political or societal perspective. The courses are taught by faculty from academic institutions in and around New York City. Topics for 2007 include Issues in Global Public Health and Science and Global Affairs.