Higher Education in Flanders

Objectives:

1. Shaping of individuals capable of thinking for themselves, by way of concepts particular to the fast developing science of biology with the following characteristics which typify the training programme, making it unique:

- biological systems are complex, energy-dependent, display variation and are subject to evolution;

- all biological systems are characterised by multiplication, growth, development and information transfer;

- biological processes are autogenous, interactive and dynamic.

2. Development of a continuous interaction between theoretical know how and scientific skills, notably:

- intellectual skills (due sense of analysis and synthesis; logical and critical mindset; non-dogmatic approach);
- practical skills (punctilious experimentation; correct analysis and synthesis);
- communication skills (scientific reporting and presentation skills).

3. Broad-based and foundational introduction to biology with a solid basis in  the relevant natural sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, geology) and the broad-based development of social and topical scientific biology education.

This biology education is founded on research and serves as an aptly suitable basis for students to advance directly to Master level specialist training programmes.
 

Final attainment levels:

1st year Bachelor of Biology:

Building students' general ready knowledge in fundamental sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology) through analysis and synthesis;

Developing the ability to establishing connections within and between various biological organisation levels: molecules, organelles, cells, organisms, populations, biocenoses, ecosystems and global systems; 

Acquiring basic concepts pertaining to reproduction, genetics and evolution.

2nd and 3rd year Bachelor of Biology:

Duly understanding and situating current developments in the methodology, analysis techniques and data analysis for the wide range of biological research;

Have due skills in the characteristics of biological diversity: molecules, varieties (Archaea, Bacteria, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, Animalia), interactions and processes (immunology, parasitology, physiology, reproduction, growth and development, environmental impact); and of systems (ecology);

Application of methods and techniques by way of a placement in a research laboratory with the inclusion of reports;

Acquiring an attitude of critical reflection and the ability to establish connections between structures and functions;

Ability to accurately and critically interpret biological and ecological aspects in society (policy, industry and research);

Acquiring due insight into the concepts, issues and experimental approaches in biology, with the inclusion of bioethics and philosophy..