Bachelor of Science in Biology
The B.S. degree program provides interested students with a broad approach to biology, but requires a comprehensive background in mathematics and the natural sciences. The B.S. program is recommended for students planning careers in research or who plan to continue study in graduate school, medical school, dental school or in other graduate health care schools.
Prospective biology majors should begin the chemistry sequence (CH 110 111) in the freshman year.
Requirements for the B.S. Major
Required credits: 66
Thirty-four credits in biology courses, including:
- BIO 122 Biological Science
- BIO 123 Biological Science
- BIO 260 Ecology
- BIO 336 Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIO 352 Cell Biology
- BIO 372, 373 Genetics
One of the following:
- BIO 337, 338 Immunology
- BIO 440W Medical Microbiology
- BIO 442 Microbiology
- BIO 444, 445 Biochemistry
In addition:
- Upper-division biology courses.
- Related sciences requirements: at least 16 credits of chemistry, through
CH 230-231 Organic Chemistry, PHY 120-121 Introductory College Physics,
M 144-145 Calculus I and II.
- A foreign language and computer science through the intermediate level are strongly recommended.
All courses required for the major must be taken for a letter grade, and may not be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. Biology and chemistry courses must be completed with a grade-point average of at least 2.2.
Learnings Outcomes for the BS in Biology
1) Students will be able to describe and apply basic biological information and concepts.
2) Students will be able to conduct original biological research and report results orally and in writing to scientific audiences.
3) Students will be able to demonstrate higher order conceptual understanding of biology, critical thinking and analytical/problem solving skills.
4) Students will demonstrate an understanding of biology laboratory techniques and instrumentation that is standard in the discipline.
5) Students will apply ethical principles of the discipline in regard to human and animal subjects, environmental protection, use of sources, and collaboration with colleagues.
