College of Science

OVERVIEW

The Bicol University College of Science (BUCS) was established by virtue of BOR Resolution No. 75 series of 2004 on September 10, 2004 as part of the vision and implementation of the BU Comprehensive Development Plan. It pooled together in June 2004 the human and physical resources of the BS Computer Science at then BU Computer Science Institute (BUCSI), the BS Chemistry of BU Regional Science Teaching Center (BU RSTC) and BS Biology, then BU College of Arts and Sciences in response to the need to merge the facilities and manpower skills for the development of an institution of higher learning and research in basic and applied science and mathematics.

The BUCSI provided the core staff to establish the College of Science. The BUCS today has a dual nature:

• As a professional college offering the academic degree programs (BS Biology, BS Chemistry, BS Computer Science and BS Information Technology); and,
• As a service college offering natural sciences, mathematics and information and communication technology courses as part of the General Education Courses (GEC) of other colleges of the University, particularly in the Main Campus in Legazpi and in Daraga.

All of the degree programs offered by BUCS are accredited by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc.

HISTORY

The College of Science was established on September 10, 2004 through Board Resolution No. 75, series of 2004. It was formed when the former BS Biology of BUCAS, BS Chemistry of BU-RSTC and BS Computer Science of Computer Science Institute were merged together in response to the need to pool together the facilities and manpower skills for the development of an institution of higher learning and research in basic and applied science and mathematics as envisioned by the Bicol University Comprehensive Development Plan. 

The College of Science (CS), enrolled the first year students in Bachelor in Computer Science, a course program previously offered in the Institute of Computer Science (ICS); the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, used to be offered in the Regional Science Teaching Center (RSTC) now merged with the College of Education; and the Bachelor of Science in Biology, previously offered in CAS. 

Research and extension are among the four-fold functions of Bicol University along instruction and production. Through the years, the University has assisted in the development of the region through various research undertakings that helped and reached target clients from farmers, fishermen, out-of-school youths, women and other sectors both in rural and urban areas, government and non-government organizations. These activities vary according to the multidiscipline and field of specialization being offered by the university. 

The College of Science whose specialization is in the fields of information technology, natural sciences, both physical and biological, faces the challenge of “Uplifting the Bicolano’s quality of life through the understanding, wise use and management of its natural resources”. 

College Learning Outcomes

1. Apply necessary scientific and technological knowledge and skills on one’s specific field of speculation.
2. Formulate and conduct basic and applied scientific researchers responsive to national and global developmental needs.
3. Advocate volunteerism and social responsibility to alleviate community conditions.
4. Develop entrepreneurs’ mindset and skills applying knowledge gained in specific fields to engage in productive enterprise.

BS Biology

Program Outcomes

1. Develop the sound academic, moral and ethical values of a professional biologist.
2. Carry out scientific research aligned with the research thrust of the University and generate new knowledge as research output.
3. Apply biotechnological knowledge for sustained economic growth and development in the region.
4. Demonstrate effective technical and communication skills necessary to join the academe, industry and research institutions and/or pursue advanced studies

BS Chemistry

Program Learning Outcomes

        A graduate of the BS Chemistry program should be able to:

1. Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge and understanding in the core areas of chemistry: inorganic, organic, physical, biological and analytical chemistry; and in addition the necessary background in mathematics.
2. Gather data using standard laboratory equipment, modern instrumentation and classical techniques.
3. Identify and solve problems involving chemistry, using current disciplinary and interdisciplinary principles.
4. Qualify for further study and/or for entry-level professional employment in the general workplace.
5. Work effectively and independently in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams.
6. Act in recognition of professional, social, and ethical responsibility.
7. Effectively communicate orally and in writing using both English and Filipino.
8. Articulate and discuss the latest developments in the specific field of practice.
9. Interpret relevant scientific data and make judgments that include reflection on relevant scientific and ethical issues.
10. Preserve and promote “Filipino historical and cultural heritage.”

BS Computer Science

Course Description

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, one of the programs offered by the College of Science under the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology (CS/IT) is designed to prepare students for a career in Computer Science and other related fields, equipped with the necessary skills to pursue advanced studies, and/or become applications developer, computer science instructor, database programmer/designer, Information Security Engineer,  Quality Assurance Engineer, researcher, systems developer, systems analysts or other Information Technology Professionals who shall develop and promote information and communications technology in the region in the field of Computer Science.

Program Outcomes

1. Utilize concepts and theories of computing, algorithmic foundation and apply new developments in computing.
2. Develop algorithmically complex software and effective algorithms for solving computing problems.
3. Acquire the skills and the discipline required for designing, writing, and modifying software components, modules, and applications that comprise software solutions.
4. Apply the basic cultural, social, legal, and ethical practices inherent in the discipline of computing.
5. Engage the life-long learning to adapt to innovations and change in order to be successful. 

BS Information Technology

Course Description

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT), one of the programs offered by the College of Science under the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology is designed to prepare students for a career in Information Technology and other related fields, equipped with the necessary skills to pursue advanced studies, and/or become Applications Developer, Database Administrator, Entrepreneur in IT industry, Information Security Administrator, Information Technology Instructor, Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Systems Analysts, Technical Support Specialist, Test Engineer, Web Administrator/ Web Master and Web Developer other Information Technology Professionals who shall develop and promote Information and Communications Technology in the region in the field of Information Technology.

Program Outcomes

1. Utilize and implement hardware and software technologies that provide computing solutions to address the needs of an organization.
2. Identify various needs within the organization and provide solution using computing technologies.
3. Apply basic cultural, social, legal, and ethical practices inherent in the discipline of computing.
4. Engage in life-long learning to adapt to innovations and change in order to be successful.

Prof. Jocelyn E. Serrano
Dean
742-1479
jeserrano@bicol-u.edu.ph
bucs-dean@bicol-u.edu.ph

Jason Lucila
Associate Dean

Sharlene A. Mendizabal
Registrar
481-1455
samendizabal@bicol-u.edu.ph
bucsreg@bicol-u.edu.ph

I. EXTENSION ACTIVITIES – First Quarter 2016

Extension Activities of the Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science/Information Technology, Mathematics and Physics

A. The first quarter extension commitments of the college departments focused on preparation of projects and programs aligned with the University Extension Service Framework on WATERSHED. All departments participated in the extension writeshop each producing draft departmental extension programs. Extension commodity declarations per department were the following:

Biology: Community-based transfer of knowledge, skills, aspirations on biology.

Chemistry: Water quality assessment and watershed protection, rehabilitation, sustainability; Transfer of KRAS in Chemistry.

CS-IT: Transfer of KRAS on computing science, ICT; Computer Software development technical support; institutional digital systems development.

Mathematics: Community-based quantitative skills development; Instructional support of DepEd faculty; Integrated extension services to institutions and to internal or external development projects/programs.

Physics: Transfer of KRAS in physics to teachers of DepED and other interest groups; Training on robotics and development of mechanical systems demonstrative of laws of physics.

B. Prepared and Disseminated Information, Education and Communication Materials (IEC Materials)

Lecture Power Points (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Research)

Worksheets (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Research)

Problem Sets (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Research)

C. Transfer of knowledge and techniques on various areas of specialization.

Technologies Transferred

1. Biologically Sound Management of Local Government Units: Masbate and Manito Projects Approximately: 100 households x two municipalities = 200 household beneficiaries

2. Research protocol design

2.1. 30 Health Emergency Management (DRRM Responders) graduate students At DOH-Manila

2.2. 30 faculty members of BUCAF – 31 August – 1 September, 2016

3. Statistical analysis

3.1. 30 Health Emergency Management (DRRM Responders) graduate students At DOH-Manila

3.2. 30 faculty members of BUCAF – 31 August – 1 September, 2016

D. Provided technical assistance to external entities

a. Masbate Local Government Unit

b. Regional Statistics Council, Region V

* Developed the Core Indicators Matrix Input for Bicol Region

* Negotiated for Tapping the Bicol University’s Mathematics/Statistics Faculty for the Regional Training on Statistics for Development Planning(Favorably acted on by the Regional Statistics Council in favor of Bicol University instead of the expensive training quotation of the Philippine Statistical Training and Research Institute)

c. NAPOLCOM Region V:

c.1. Ugnayan sa Barangay ng Legazpi

Action on Top Three Crimes per Barangay

Participants Local Chief Executive & LuponngKapayapaan Chair

Per Barangay = 120 (of 140 expected)

= 4hours x 120 participants = 60 person training days

c.2. Model Supervisor and Model Associate Supervisor Performance Rating Matrix Development

c.3. Model Supervisor and Model Associate Supervisor Write-up

c.4. Model PNP National Competitions Region V Candidate’s Portfolio Preparation

II. Highlights of Accomplishments

For the first quarter of 2016, College of Science was able to conduct:

a. Technical Trainings of B.U. Personnel and Staff

28-29 January 2016: Synchronization of Curriculum and Course Codes

26-27 January 2016: Fees Templates

Chart of Accounts

Scholars Assessment and Virtual Payment Guidelines

Participants: Registrars, OSS and Admissions Staff, Accounting Staff, Cashiers Department Chairs

Approximately: 4 Training Days x 30 Participants/Day

120 person days training

Budget; c/o Office of the Vice President for Administration

Faculty/Staff Involved: Felix Penetrante, Laarni D. Pancho, Rolando Mendones, Noli Lucila, Ryan Rodriguez, Jayvee Vibar, Ma. Carolina L. Boyon, Angelica Carla Cells, Adryan Rodriguez

b. Presentation of the Payment Module to the University Executive Committee 2 February 2016: 3 Hours x 10 Top University Managers = 75 person days training

c. Online Student Clearance Training for Registrars

d. Online Registration System Usage Training for BUCAF and BUTC Registrars’ Staff Approximately 3 days x 5 personnel = 15 person days training

Transfer of technologies

Technologies Transferred

a. Online Registration Systems Phased Development via standardization of data inputs and streamlined policies across management and academic units of the University.

b. Preparation of extension programs and projects by Department

c. Standardization of curricula and course codes