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

OR

BIOL 115Advanced General Biology

4

BIOL 218General Biology II-Organismal Diversity in the Environment

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 111Principles of General Chemistry

4

OR

CHEM 113General & Quantitative Chemistry I

4

 

CHEM 216 General & Quantitative Chemistry II

4

CHEM 224Organic Chemistry I

4

CHEM 225Organic Chemistry II

4

 

MATH 120Calculus I

4

OR

STAT 118Introductory Statistics

4

OR

MATH 227Statistical Design and 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 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 more information.