Faculty of Science
Welcome to the Faculty of Science at the American University of Madaba (AUM).
The Faculty of Science is devoted to providing distinction in research and community service to encounter not only the national needs of Jordanians, but also to race internationally with other professional schools in term of the quality of teaching, students’ readiness, and outstanding research.
The Faculty of Science has two major departments, the Department of Basic Sciences and Humanities and the Department of Biology and Biotechnology. On one hand, the Department of Basic Sciences covers the service courses such as Mathematics, Physics, Humanities, and Chemistry, which are required by different faculties at AUM. On the other hand, the Department of Biology and Biotechnology offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Biotechnology. Further, it affords students with a skilled education in the multifaceted field of biology and biotechnology. Students preparing for futures in molecular biology and forensic, genetics, histology and microtechniques, tissue culture, genetic counseling, embryology, clinical cytogenetics, microbial biotechnology, plant biotechnology and ecology will have a foundational knowledge in biological and biotechnological sciences and also can explore their specific interests in upper-level coursework designed by you and directed by our experienced faculty by broadening access to information and consolidation already existing partnerships with local and international organizations.
Our state-of-the-art laboratories set our biology & biotechnology degree program apart from those at other universities. Our labs are equipped with professional grade scientific technology that is outfitted into nearly every course. The scientific labs which are equipped with Real-time PCR, PCR, Gel documentation system, CO2 incubator, Inverted microscope, Fully automatic rotary microtome, Automatic tissue processor, High-speed centrifuges, FT-IR, UV-VIS spectrophotometers, Bacterial shaker incubator, Plant growth chamber, Nanodrop microvolume Spectrophotometer, CombiFlash chromatography, Microwave reactor, Rotary evaporators, and GC-MS, and ensures that our students will be trained to use these equipment and will graduate with not only theoretical knowledge and critical thinking skills but also with the ability to practice science in the lab, field, or examination room.
Our team at the Faculty of Science has a high-level of distinguished research with the intense participation of our undergraduates. In 2020-2021 our team had published more than twenty peer-reviewed publications through funded research either from the AUM or the Scientific Research Support Fund.
Thank for your interest in the Faculty of Science looking forward to having you.
Associate Prof. Wajdy Jum’ah Al-Awaida
Acting Dean Faculty of Science
Introduction:
Biology is the study of living organisms and life processes. It includes important disciplines such as Zoology, Plant Biology, Ecology, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Biomedical Research, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Hematology, Oncology, Aerobiology, and more. The 21st century is defined by the age of biology and biotechnology, marked by a biological revolution fueled by rapid advancements in physics, electronics, and computing. These transformative developments have not only shaped our lives over the past five decades but also unveiled new tools and technologies that enable researchers to access large datasets. This wealth of information empowers scientists to tackle profound and intricate questions regarding the functioning of living systems.
Bioscience plays a crucial role in driving progress in medicine and health, facilitating the development of new pharmaceuticals to combat infectious diseases, ensuring the production of safe and nutritious food, promoting sustainable agriculture, and providing a foundation for addressing climate change. With these considerations in mind, it is evident that biology and biotechnology will play a central role in finding solutions to the major challenges facing humankind in the coming decades.
The Department of Biology and Biotechnology was established with the aim of becoming one of the leading institutions in the Middle East, contributing to scholarly, scientific, and technological advancements. Currently, the department offers a four-year B.Sc. program in Biology and Biotechnology, with aspirations to establish M.Sc. programs in the near future. The department's offices, teaching facilities, and research laboratories are located in the Science buildings at the heart of the AUM campus in Madaba.
Mission :
The mission of the Department of Biology and Biotechnology at American University of Madaba is to provide students with a comprehensive education in Biology and Biotechnology, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability needed to excel in their chosen professions. We aim to foster a deep understanding of biological principles and their real-world applications, particularly in areas relevant to Jordan and the region. Through a dynamic learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborative research opportunities, we strive to prepare graduates who are poised to contribute to scientific advancements, environmental sustainability, healthcare, and other critical fields.
Vision :
The Biology and Biotechnology department will have the means to prepare resourceful graduates functioning proficiently in a broad array of biology - related disciplines and capable of serving their communities. The department will also be a leading institution in scientific research and in serving the wider community through its expert consulting and providing solutions to real-world problems.
General Education Program
Department of Basic Science & Humanities
Introduction
The department of Basic Science and Humanities is a multidisciplinary unit that serves freshman students from different faculties at AUM. The department fosters the General Education Program (GEP) at AUM, which is not a degree program. Students at AUM must complete a total of 40 credit hours from the university’s general education requirements courses to graduate from their academic programs. All students must take 23 credit hours from outside their major and the remaining 17 credit hours from either their major’s general education elective courses or other departments general elective courses. GEP broadens students’ knowledge, and technical skills, and promotes social awareness through general education and career- focused courses. It provides strong education and learning environment, which enables the students to enter all areas of their profession upon graduation and to adapt to changes that may occur during professional life. Students will be conversant with wide range of topics relating to the natural sciences, be able to communicate effectively, and appreciate the scientist's professional and social role. The faculty tries to foster a learning environment enhanced by faculty who encourage leadership, independence, self- respect, promotion of justice, and compassion in students. This is dependent on a sound scientific knowledge base, well-developed expertise, critical thinking capabilities, moral reasoning, and communication skills.
Vision
The General Educational Program (GEP) strives to provide a dynamic integration of the liberal arts & sciences and technology for personal and professional development consistent with the university’s vision. The faculty commits itself to utilize wisdom and science for a better world.
Mission
The General Educational Program (GEP) supplements students’ professional respective fields to enhance their inquiry and acquisition knowledge in multidisciplinary areas. GEP compliments university mission by helping students to move forward with a collaborative initiative to achieve excellence and promotes knowledge in rewarding and inspiring learning and research environment to develop leadership qualities relevant to the 21st century and beyond.
The American University of Madaba graduates will have the following Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
PLO1: Rational and Practical Skills
Intellectual and communicative skills are needed to succeed in the academic environment and to address globally complex challenges. This includes written and oral communication skills and quantitative and qualitative reasoning for complex and refined arguments.
PLO2: Civic and Global Leadership
Recognize the diversity of different societies, locally and internationally, in terms of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, and age, and demonstrate the skills and knowledge gained to lead, recognize, apply and establish effective and useful interactions in crisis.
PLO3: Knowledge of Human Cultures
Knowledge from humanities, environmental, social sciences, and arts to better understand of ecology.
PLO4: Understanding of the Physical and Natural World (STEM Skills)
Creativity, Knowledge, and skills learned from Natural Science (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics) in order to develop an interdisciplinary, diverse, and applied approach to the natural environment and an understanding of scientific reasoning and integration latest technology.
General Education List of Competencies (LoC’s) which achieve General Education PLOs
Knowledge
A1. Understanding essential facts in related topics.
A2. Comprehend basic concepts in related fields and their applications.
A3. Introducing and relating principles and theories.
A4. Clarifying sciences and humanities terminology in related fields.
Practical Skills
B1. Enhance oral, written and communication skills.
B2. Applying creative and critical skills.
B3. Develop interpersonal skills.
B4. Use of a Learning Management System (LMS) in the learning process to create and deliver content and monitor student participation and assessment.
Thinking Skills
C1. Enhance computer skills to solve and apply theoretical concepts in real life.
C2. Recognize, analyze, and apply quantitative and qualitative concepts in real-life models.
C3. Understand scientific reasoning for different problems and concepts.
Other Skills
D1. Promote critical thinking in solving and applying problems and concepts.
D2. Intellectual and independent creativity in reasoning learning natural sciences topics.
D3. Recognize and apply effective and useful interaction in complex problems.
Degree Requirements
General Education Curriculum Courses
- I. To achieve the General Education Program Outcomes (PLOs), all AUM undergraduate students are required to take 23 credit hours from the following categories:
- A. Remedial Requirements (0 Credit Hours):
Placement tests in English, Arabic, and Computer are mandatory for all students. In the event of a failure in any of these tests, students will be expected to enroll in the corresponding remedial course, which are 900099 for English, 900097 for Arabic, and 900096 for Computer.
- B. University Compulsory General Education Courses Requirements: 14 Credit Hours
|
Course No |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0900120 |
Arabic Communication Skills (1) |
3 |
0900097* |
|
0900130 |
English Communication Skills (1) |
3 |
0900099* |
|
0900131 |
English Communication Skills (2) |
3 |
0900130 |
|
0900111 |
Military Science |
3 |
-- |
|
0900122 |
Entrepreneurship and Innovation |
1 |
-- |
|
0900123 |
Leadership and social responsibility |
1 |
-- |
- C. University Elective General Education Elective Courses Requirements: 9 Credit Hours
- 1. Humanities: 3 Credit Hours
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0900113 |
Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication |
3 |
-- |
|
0900117 |
Civic Awareness |
3 |
-- |
|
0900140 |
Appreciation of Art |
3 |
-- |
|
0900141 |
Appreciation of Music |
3 |
-- |
|
0900124 |
Human Rights |
3 |
-- |
|
0900102 |
Sports |
3 |
-- |
|
0900118 |
Cultural Development |
3 |
-- |
2.Social and Economic Sciences: 3 Credit Hours
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0900114 |
Civilization and Thought |
3 |
-- |
|
0900115 |
Social Ethics** |
3 |
-- |
|
0900150 |
Introduction to Economics*** |
3 |
-- |
|
0900106 |
General Statistics |
3 |
-- |
|
0900133 |
Research Methodology |
3 |
-- |
- 3. Natural Science and Technology: 3 Credit Hours
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0900116 |
Bio-Ethics |
3 |
-- |
|
0900172 |
Development and Environment |
3 |
-- |
|
0900171 |
Science and Society |
3 |
-- |
|
0900180 |
Computer Skills* |
3 |
0900096* |
|
0900190 |
Digital Culture |
3 |
-- |
|
0900185 |
Astronomy |
3 |
-- |
* Or passing the placement test.
**Compulsory for Business and Finance Students.
***Not for Business and Finance
II.In order to fulfill the General Education Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), AUM mandates that all undergraduate students complete 17 credit hours from one of the Categories listed below as part of the General Education Program.
Natural Science and Laboratory in Basic or Applied Sciences:
Successful completion of the General Education (GE) courses in natural sciences and laboratory sessions in basic or applied sciences provide students with the ability to comprehend and explain natural phenomena through experimentation, logical reasoning, and observation. Upon fulfilling this requirement, students will be able to:
- Explain fundamental concepts in natural sciences.
- Apply scientific methodologies in the resolution of complex problems related to natural phenomena.
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0904101 |
General Physics 1 |
3 |
|
|
0904102 |
General Physics 2 |
3 |
0904101 |
|
0904100 |
Descriptive Physics ( for non-science major) |
3 |
|
|
0902100 |
Chemistry of Everyday Life ( for non-science major) |
3 |
|
|
0903100 |
Quantitative Reasoning in Math ( for non-science major) |
3 |
|
|
0201100 |
Biology of the Living ( for non-science major) |
3 |
|
|
0902112 |
Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences |
3 |
|
|
0902111 |
Organic Chemistry for Health Sciences |
3 |
|
|
0902101 |
General Chemistry |
3 |
|
|
0201101 |
General Biology 1 |
3 |
|
|
0201331 |
Microbiology |
3 |
0201102 or concurrent 0202251 |
|
0201241 |
Biochemistry |
3 |
0902112 |
|
0904107 |
General Physics 1 Lab |
1 |
0904101 |
|
0904108 |
General Physics 2 Lab |
1 |
0904107 or concurrent 0904102 |
|
0902113 |
Organic Chemistry Lab. for Life Sciences |
1 |
0902112 |
|
0902107 |
General Chemistry Lab |
1 |
0902101 |
|
0304156 |
Analytical Chemistry Lab |
1 |
|
|
0304150 |
Analytical Chemistry |
2 |
|
|
0201332 |
Basic Microbiology Lab |
1 |
0201331 |
|
0301237 |
Biochemistry Lab |
1 |
|
|
0201107 |
General Biology 1 Lab |
1 |
|
|
0303111 |
Fundamentals of Nutrition |
3 |
0201101 |
Quantitative and Mathematical Literacy:
Upon completion of the quantitative literacy courses offered by GE, students will possess the ability to recognize, assess, and tackle problems that arise in common situations. These courses provide the necessary skills and knowledge for students to excel in quantitative analysis.
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0900213 |
Technical Writing and Documentation |
3 |
|
|
0702302 |
Academic Writing |
3 |
0702107 |
|
0401121 |
Programing Fundamentals |
3 |
|
|
0401120 |
Programing Fundamentals Lab |
1 |
|
|
0402213 |
Linear Algebra |
3 |
|
|
0903381 |
Numerical Analysis |
3 |
0903102 |
|
0903281 |
Probability and Statistics |
3 |
0903102 |
|
0903182 |
Statistics for Business |
3 |
|
|
0903105 |
Mathematics and Biostatistics |
3 |
|
|
0903103 |
Mathematics for Business |
3 |
|
|
0903101 |
Calculus 1 |
3 |
|
|
0903102 |
Calculus 2 |
3 |
0903101 |
Social and Economic Sciences:
The category of GE courses available here provides students with the opportunity to scrutinize cultural and societal issues, apply empirical analyses, and engage in ethical critiques. Upon fulfilling this requirement, students will have the ability to:
- Assess human behavior concerning issues pertaining to politics, economics, culture, society, and organizations.
- Conduct ethical analyses of relevant issues.
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0900114 |
Civilization and Thought |
3 |
- |
|
0704101 |
Introduction to Mass Communication |
3 |
- |
|
0703251 |
Culture and Globalization |
3 |
- |
|
0506151 |
Fundamentals of Human Resources Management |
3 |
|
|
0505103 |
Macroeconomics |
3 |
|
|
0505102 |
Microeconomics |
3 |
|
|
0505101 |
Principles of Risk Management |
3 |
|
|
0504101 |
Principles of Marketing |
3 |
|
|
0503101 |
Principles of Finance |
3 |
|
|
0502101 |
Principles of Management |
3 |
|
|
0501101 |
Principles of Accounting |
3 |
Arts and Humanities:
The courses within this category of GE courses introduce students to a broad range of cultural, linguistic, artistic, and historical perspectives. By fulfilling this requirement, students will develop the skills needed to scrutinize and assess works in literature, history, arts, and linguistics.
|
Course No. |
Course Name |
Credit Hours |
Prerequisite |
|
0609210 |
Design History and Theory |
3 |
|
|
0702132 |
English for Business |
3 |
- |
|
0702107 |
Paragraph and Essay Writing |
3 |
- |
|
0702105 |
Reading Comprehension |
3 |
- |
|
0702104 |
Study Skills |
3 |
- |
|
0702103 |
Listening and Speaking |
3 |
- |
|
0702005 |
Italian /European language 1 |
3 |
- |
|
0702006 |
Italian /European language 2 |
3 |
0702005 |
|
0609136 |
3D Drawing and Perspectives |
3 |
|
|
0609121 |
Design Methods and Creative Thinking |
3 |
|
|
0609120 |
Drawing and Rendering Techniques |
3 |
|
|
0608225 |
Digital Photography and Imaging |
3 |
|
|
0608220 |
Color Theory and Applications 1 |
3 |
|
|
0608211 |
Introduction and History of Visual Communication |
3 |
|
|
0608130 |
Free-Hand Drawing |
3 |
|
|
0608125 |
Introduction to Computer Graphics and Illustration |
3 |
|
|
0606211 |
History of Architecture and Art |
3 |
|
|
0606131 |
Technical Drawing |
3 |
Embarking on a journey in biology and biotechnology opens up a world of exciting opportunities and the potential to make a meaningful impact. If you are passionate about understanding living organisms, unraveling the complexities of life, and applying scientific knowledge to address real-world challenges, pursuing a degree in biology and biotechnology is an excellent choice. Here is a comprehensive career plan to guide you through your academic journey and beyond:
1. Academic Foundation: As a student of biology and biotechnology, you will lay a solid academic foundation by studying fundamental disciplines such as genetics, molecular biology, ecology, physiology, and bioinformatics. Emphasizing both theory and practical applications, your coursework will equip you with a deep understanding of biological principles and critical thinking skills.
2. Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects and internships to gain hands-on experience in scientific inquiry and methodology. Collaborate with faculty members and industry professionals, contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the field. This practical experience will enhance your problem-solving abilities and foster a spirit of innovation.
3. Specialization and Focus: Tailor your studies to match your interests and career goals. Explore specialized areas such as biotechnology, bioinformatics, biomedical research, environmental biology, or agricultural biotechnology. By delving deeper into these areas, you will develop expertise and open doors to niche career opportunities.
4. Graduate Studies: Consider pursuing advanced degrees such as Master's or Ph.D. programs to further specialize in your chosen field. Advanced degrees provide opportunities for in-depth research, teaching experience, and leadership roles in academia, industry, or government research institutions.
5. Industry and Careers: The biology and biotechnology industries offer a vast range of career paths. Explore opportunities in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, research and development, clinical laboratories, government agencies, conservation organizations, agricultural and food industries, and regulatory bodies. Your skills will be in high demand for positions such as research scientist, biotechnologist, geneticist, environmental consultant, science policy analyst, or science educator.
6. Professional Development: Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in biology and biotechnology by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars. Join professional societies and networks to expand your connections and access valuable resources. Continuous learning and professional development will ensure you remain at the forefront of your field.
7. Make an Impact: Biology and biotechnology offer the opportunity to contribute to solving global challenges. Address pressing issues such as healthcare, environmental conservation, food security, and sustainable agriculture. Your knowledge and expertise can lead to breakthroughs in disease prevention, genetic therapies, conservation efforts, and environmentally friendly practices.
8. Lifelong Learning: Cultivate a passion for lifelong learning and adaptability. The field of biology and biotechnology is dynamic, with rapid advancements and emerging technologies. Stay curious, embrace new developments, and continuously update your skills to remain competitive in an ever-evolving industry.
The Department of Biology and Biotechnology is committed to supporting you throughout your academic journey and preparing you for a successful and rewarding career. Through rigorous academic programs, hands-on experiences, and access to industry professionals, we will empower you to become a skilled biologist or biotechnologist capable of making a positive impact on society.
Department of Biology and Biotechnology
Botany Lab
Plant Cell Culture and Transformation Lab
Histology and Micro-Techniques Lab
Genetics and Developmental Biology Lab
Zoology and Ecology Lab
Biochemistry Lab
Molecular Biology Lab
Microbiology Lab
Research Lab
Immunology Lab
Animal Cell Culture lab
Department of Basics Sciences and Humanities
General Chemistry Lab
Organic Chemistry Lab
Analytical Chemistry Lab
Research Labs (organic and instrumental)
General physics Lab
The Faculty of Science is dedicated to understanding humanity, world and its places in the universe. By research, experiements and training, we introduce a new generation of experts to find solutions to the problems that science can solve.
- Biology and Biotechnology Program :
The Biology and Biotechnology program at AUM is designed to produce excellent scientists capable of building bright, new futures and, ultimately, saving lives. Students will branch off into more specialized fields of science and medicine after their time at AUM. Because of this, this broad-base program lays a strong and flexible foundation that graduates will use to continue their scientific journeys and build lifelong careers related to societal themes such as energy, water, health, or innovation, as well as careers in entrepreneurship or teaching.