Biology (BS)

Biology is the study of life and includes a broad range of biological disciplines. Undergraduate students are well-prepared for graduate studies and careers with a strong foundation in biological principles and methodology, as a result of the department’s student centered classroom, laboratory, and research experience. For students desiring a broad education in the life sciences, ranging from the molecular and cellular level to that of populations and ecosystems, this major provides maximum flexibility in preparation for careers in biology, biotechnology, and related fields; it also serves as excellent preparation for graduate and professional schools.

Program Requirements:

Students planning a program in biology satisfy the core requirements by taking the following courses:

Year 1:

BIOL 113General Biology

4

BIOL 218Principles of Zoology

4

Year 2:

BIOL 222Animal Physiology

4

BIOL 225Cell Biology

4

Year 3:

BIOL 336Genetics

4

To complete the minimum requirements, students must take three additional courses in biology; at least two courses of which must be 300-level and one must be 200-level, OR three 300-level courses.

In the senior year students must satisfy their Capstone requirement by taking two semesters of

BIOL 350Independent Laboratory Research

4

OR

BIOL 355Thesis

4

OR

BIOL 370Internship

Variable

Prerequisites:

Students are required to take

CHEM 111Introduction to Chemistry: Inorganic

4

OR

CHEM 113Principles of Chemistry

4

 

CHEM 224Organic Chemistry I

4

CHEM 225Organic Chemistry II

4

 

MATH 120Calculus I

4

OR

MATH 118Introductory Statistics

4

OR

MATH 227Intermediate Statistics: Design & Analysis

4

OR

MATH 229Regression Models

4

  • Students interested in medical or dental school or in pursuing graduate study in certain areas of biology should plan to include additional courses in CHEM 216, MATH 121, and a year of physics.  
  • Students interested in careers in dentistry, medicine, optometry, podiatry, veterinary medicine, and the allied health professions should consult the health professions advisor.
  • Students interested in teaching licensure at the elementary level should complete the Biology major and consult with the Department of Education for information on the Dunn Scholars 4+1 licensure program. 


**Please note: The Department of Biology continues to support students who wish to participate in the Public Health program. See information on the Department of Public Health.