biology major undergraduate coursework

The Undergraduate Major in Biology

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The major begins with a variety of introductory courses related to the different fields of Biology. Students will begin taking these courses, exploratory lab courses, and a selection of additional breadth courses in Chemistry, Math, Physics, and Statistics during their first two years. Advanced elective courses will be taken in the remaining two years. Although not required for any field of study, most Biology undergraduates choose to engage in at least one quarter of research in a lab on campus. Many go on to complete independent research that culminates in an Honors thesis and presentation. More information about the requirements for the B.S. Biology are included here.

In the next step of the curriculum, students engage with fundamental areas of Biology through Bio Foundations courses, which cover key foundational disciplines of Biology. Students will take anywhere from 2-4 Bio Foundations courses depending on their subplan within the major. These courses will delve into these fundamental areas of Biology and further build students’ skills in critical scientific thinking, reading the literature, and scientific communication.

Each Bio Foundations course is offered for 4 units:

BIO 81 – Ecology
BIO 82 – Genetics
BIO 83 – Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
BIO 84 – Physiology
BIO 85 – Evolutionary Biology
BIO 86 – Cell Biology

The general Biology major allows students to choose any four out of the six Bio Foundation courses. Specialized fields of study will require specific Bio Foundations courses, please review each subplan for the specific number and 80-series courses required.

The 80-level Bio Foundations courses must be taken for a letter grade.

These courses provide hands-on exposure to scientific methodology and experimental design. They are inquiry-based and allow students to hone their scientific thinking and lab skills by conducting real biology research. Lab courses are designed to give a grounding in both lab research and field research. Please review each subplan for the specific number and list of required lab requirements.

Some lab courses include:

BIO 43, Introduction to Laboratory Research in Neuronal Cell Biology
BIO 45, Introduction to Laboratory Research in Cell and Molecular Biology
BIO 46: Introduction to Research in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (WIM course)
BIO 47: Introduction to Research in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (WIM course)

Courses in Chemistry, Math, Physics, and Statistics will be required. Although specific requirements will vary by subplan , students can expect to take the following courses:

1-6 courses in Chemistry
1-3 courses in Math
2-4 courses in Physics
1 course in Statistics

Only one course from Chemistry, Math, Physics, and Statistics requirement may be taken credit/no credit.

Upper-level courses are offered in more specialized areas of Biology, many of them are seminar-style courses that provide opportunities to explore in depth the scientific literature and develop ideas for novel areas of research. Students have the option of pursuing a General Biology major or fulfilling specific requirements to pursue a specialized field of study. The specific number of elective requirements will vary by subplan.

General Biology and students who choose a subplan will take a unique combination of course requirements as outlined in their specific area. The fields of study are:

General Biology
Biochemistry/Biophysics
Cellular, Molecular, and Organismal Biology
Computational and Systems Biology
Ecology, Evolution, and Environment
Microbial Sciences
Neurosciences

All students may take one elective course credit/no credit.

Elective courses can include additional Biofoundations, foundational lab, and 100-level Bio courses. Also included are out-of-department STEM courses from an approved out-of-department electives list , which will include most 100-level courses in STEM subjects as well as some lower-level courses. Capstone units : a maximum of 7 units of BIO 196-199/X may be counted towards the electives.

Important note: All undergraduates matriculating as first-year students in 2021-22 or later and graduating in AY 2024-25 or later must complete a capstone. Transfer students who enter AY 2022-23 or AY 2023-24 and plan to graduate in AY 2024-2025 or later will also be required to complete a capstone.

The capstone requirement in Biology may be fulfilled via one of four options.

Option #1 - Honors in Biology

To pursue honors, students must submit an honors petition in the fall of senior year, complete at least 10 units of BIO 199/X or BIOHOPK 199H(Undergraduate Research), have a GPA of 3.0 or higher at the time of graduation, and present their honors thesis at the departmental Achauer Honors Research Symposium and through the Biology Virtual Showcase website.

Option #2 - The Senior Reflection in Biology

Students interested in expressing their personal interests in biology via creative or artistic forms (such as writing, music, fine arts, performing arts, photography, film, or new media) may enroll in The Senior Reflection (BIO 196A, B, and C; all three courses are required for this track). A written proposal on the creative process and scientific significance of the selected topic is generated in the fall (BIO 196A). During the winter quarter in Bio 196B, weekly workshops support the development, production, and refinement of each project. In spring (BIO 196C), projects are finalized and curated for an exhibition, which is held at the end of the quarter. Students are also required to write a final reflection essay.

Option #3 - Independent Capstone in Biology

Students who wish to conduct an independent, individually-designed capstone project may enroll in the Senior Synthesis. Such individually-designed projects might involve research internships, business internships, travel-based study, teaching, or other forms of community service. Examples of possible products of these individually-designed capstones include the production of a teaching or business plan, a film or podcast, or a public education campaign. Students in this track will take three courses: BIO 199A, BIO 199B, and BIO 199C.

Option #4 - Approved Out-of-Department Capstone

Students may also fulfill their capstone requirement via other approved capstone programs or honors programs, provided that the student’s specific program or project contains a substantial amount of biological relevance or content. Students who wish to use this track must submit a petition to the Biology Undergraduate Studies Committee prior to the spring quarter of their junior year.

Students are required to take one of the Biology university-approved WIM courses . WIM courses can overlap with other requirements.

Students can choose from the following options:

2023-2024- Checklist of Requirements by Subplan

Biochemistry & Biophysics
Computational and Systems Biology

2022-2023-Checklist of Requirements by Subplan

General Major
Computational Biology
Ecology and Evolution
Marine Biology
Microbes and Immunity
Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology
Neurobiology
Approved Out of Department Electives (applies to the general major and all fields of study)

Older Catalog Degree Requirements

2021-2022 checklist of requirements.

All 2021-2022 Checklist folder

2020-2021 Checklist Requirements

All 2020-2021 Checklist folder

What You Need to Know About Becoming a Biology Major

A biology major studies living organisms’ functions and characteristics. You’ll take math, science, chemistry and biology courses.

Becoming a Biology Major

Young scientist looking through a microscope in a laboratory. Young scientist doing some research.

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Studying biology involves studying life in its many forms. For people who are curious about the world around them and who have an interest in the sciences, majoring in biology can open a number of doors in the fields of scientific research, the medical profession and more.

What Is a Biology Major?

Students who study biology learn about the process of life, living organisms and how these living things interact with one another.

As a core science discipline, a biology major can set students up for myriad career paths in the sciences, including social sciences and health sciences. Biology majors should prepare for a rigorous program that involves studying chemistry, anatomy, physiology, mathematics, ecology and more.

Biology major vs. chemistry major: What’s the difference?

Biology and chemistry majors have a lot of overlap in their courses. In fact, biology majors may be surprised at the number of chemistry courses they’re required to take. But the reasons for majoring in biology versus chemistry might ultimately come down to the subject matter and the interests of the student. Those who are drawn to working with people, animals or other living things may find work in biology more fulfilling, while those who enjoy a laboratory setting or working in a more theoretical space – studying matter instead of studying life – may find chemistry to be a more appropriate course of study.

Common Coursework Biology Majors Can Expect

Core coursework.

Typical coursework for undergraduate students majoring in biology includes:

Biology of organisms.
Molecular biology.
Organic chemistry.

During the third and fourth years of an undergraduate degree, students will choose more specialized coursework, such as classes in:

Plant biology.
Marine biology.

Concentrations

Since biology is the study of life, it should come as no surprise that there are many types of life to study. Therefore, a major in biology can include any number of concentrations,r subdisciplines – and even sub-subdisciplines. Concentrations and specializations biology majors may focus on include, but are not limited to:

Cellular and molecular biology.
Evolution and ecology.
Agricultural science.
Biotechnology.

Is Biology a Good Major for Me?

Students who are curious about the living world around them and want to unpack how it all works may be well-suited for a biology major. Biology majors should have a strong interest in science, and they can expect to hone their skills in investigation, research and analysis. But to share the knowledge gained from all that research and study, biology majors also benefit from having good communication skills – especially written communication. Presentation and writing skills, while not necessarily a strong focus of study for a biology major, are among the soft skills that can help graduates thrive in the professional world.

What Can I Do With a Biology Major?

Biology majors can take their careers in a variety of directions – from jobs in biotechnology and life sciences to positions in the fields of agriculture and medicine. A range of options exist for those with only a bachelor’s degree, though graduate degrees may be required to advance in some professions. Below are five jobs biology degree holders can pursue.

Data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics .

With so many disciplines and subdisciplines within the biology major, it’s important to note that many biology majors go on to pursue post-graduate degrees. Exploring top graduate science programs can help decide where to pursue further study.

After earning an undergraduate degree in biology, you might benefit from pursuing additional certifications that can demonstrate expertise in an area and possibly expand your career options. For example, if lab work is part of the job description, taking an Occupational Safety and Health Administration lab safety course can show you’re equipped with knowledge to help prevent accidents and injuries in a laboratory environment. Universities and colleges also offer hands-on learning experiences, such as internships and lab assistant and biology tutoring jobs, that can add depth to your resume while you’re in school.

What Biology Majors Say

“I wish I had thought more about how many biology careers would require graduate-level education beyond just an undergraduate degree. I majored in biology because I had an interest in the sciences. I started out as a wildlife biology major and really enjoyed many of those classes. In fact, they were the most memorable classes I took. My favorite class was a field biology class I took while studying abroad in Australia. We did everything from mapping ecosystems, learning land navigation and how to find your way home in the field – i.e. using constellations at night and landmarks during the day – how to drive wildlife service boats and tracking crocodile egg nests, to name a few things.”

– Amanda V., Colorado State University, Bachelor of Science in biological science

“I think biology gave me a really solid base of general knowledge regarding how the world functions, and that's something that is really valuable to me. I’m very passionate about learning how things interact with each other.

A piece of advice I have: Time management. I know a lot of people say that, but once you actually go through it and put into practice, your No. 1 enemy would be procrastination. You're in college, and you have friends, and you're doing something extra and you're just putting things behind… and then once the deadline comes due, you're just suffocating. That's like a huge teaching lesson I’ve taken.”

– Felipe Diaz , Portland State University, biology major

“I have noticed that it’s a harder major than a lot of my friends that are maybe in business or even environmental science, which is more general. The bio sciences have a bigger workload, but in the future, for me, for my career that I’m interested in, it’s definitely going to pay off. I want to go into some sort of land and resource management. I just finished a big project for my writing class about my specific field, and I got to interview a bunch of people in my field. They talked a lot about the tight relationship between the data collection and field work with policy making, and I thought that was really interesting, because a big part of the biological sciences is not only the research aspect but also the political and policy aspect of it.”

– Bryn Freeman, Montana State University-Bozeman, conservation biology major

Schools Offering a Biology Major

Check out some schools below that offer biology majors and find the full list of schools here that you can filter and sort.

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General Catalog

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Biology Major (BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Biology degree is intended as preparation for scientific careers in biology or in the health professions.

Requirements & Checklist

Explain and apply major biological concepts and connect concepts from the biological and physical sciences.
Develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and quantitative skills to address biological questions.
Be able to pursue a successful career or post-baccalaureate education goals.

Fall 2020 BS Degree Requirements

Fall 2020 bs worksheet, declaring a major.

Fill out and submit the online Declaration of Major/Minor (DOM) form (found on the Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE) website.
Ms. Barbara Shannon will contact you via e-mail to provide you with your Biology faculty advisor assignment and additional Biology major information.
The Declaration of Major/Minor form is accessible in OPUS under the Course Planning and Enrollment Tile.
The OPUS form will display your current academic plan, and you may request to add or remove a major, minor, or concentration from that page.
Your request is subject to department review. Within 24 hours, you will receive an automated email with guidance on contacting the appropriate undergraduate staff member for next steps.
If you have any questions about the form or the process, please contact [email protected] .

Suggested Course Schedule

Undergraduate, undergraduate quicklinks.

Department of Biological Sciences

College of natural and mathematical sciences, b.s. in biological sciences.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) curriculum is appropriate for students desiring a focused, in-depth grounding in all the essential elements of the biological sciences, and is particularly suitable for students intending to pursue graduate study in biology or in the health sciences. It also prepares students to function effectively in a variety of technical and laboratory research settings.

BIOL BS majors receive 69-77 total credits toward the 120 total credits needed for graduation. 33-43 of those credits are at the upper level (3XX/4XX) and may be applied to the University requirement of 45 upper level credits for graduation.

NOTE: This is not a complete list of requirements. See the UMBC Undergraduate Catalog & your Degree Audit for a full listing of requirements for this program. Download the B.S. in Biological Sciences Requirements Worksheet from the Forms & Links Page

Course Requirements

Biology core (18 credits), core courses.

BIOL 141 – Foundations of Biology: Cells, Energy & Organisms
BIOL 142 – Foundations of Biology: Ecology & Evolution
BIOL 302 – Molecular and General Genetics
BIOL 303 – Cell Biology
BIOL 300L – Experimental Biology Laboratory

Biology Electives (17-21 credits)

Elective courses (four lecture, two laboratory).

One Column A elective
One Column B elective
One Column A or B elective
One BIOL 4XX Lecture course (except BIOL 430, 442, 495, 497H, 499 or 499H)
Two Upper Level Laboratory electives

Column A electives

BIOL 304 – Plant Biology
BIOL 305 – Animal Physiology
BIOL 306 – Molecular Biology
BIOL 307 – Human Physiology
BIOL 313 – Introduction to Bioinformatics
BIOL 375 – General Microbiology (formerly BIOL 275)
BIOL 430 – Biological Chemistry
BIOL 442 – Developmental Biology
BTEC 344 – Epidemiology
BTEC 395 – Translational Bioinformatics
BTEC 430 – Translational Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
MBIO 478 – Marine and Environmental Biotechnology

Column B electives

Any BIOL 4XX lecture course (except BIOL 430, 442, 495, 497H, 499, 499H, or 499L)
CHEM 352 – Organic Chemistry II and CHEM 352L – Organic Chemistry Lab II (must take both)
CHEM 437 – Comprehensive Biochemistry I
CHEM 438 – Comprehensive Biochemistry II
GES 406 – Aquatic Ecology
GES 408 – Field Ecology
GES 413 – Seminar in Biogeography
BTEC 444 – Translational Cancer Biotechnology
BTEC 453 – Biochemical Engineering

Laboratory electives

Any BIOL 3XX or 4XX Lab course (except BIOL 300L or BIOL 499L)
Students may replace one upper level Biology lab with two semesters of BIOL 499, plus one semester of either BIOL 499L or BIOL 497H

Chemistry (15 credits)

CHEM 101 – Principles of Chemistry I
CHEM 102 – Principles of Chemistry II
CHEM 102L – Introductory Chemistry Lab I
CHEM 351 – Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 351L – Organic Chemistry Lab I

Physics (8 credits)

Physics 111 – Basic Physics I (or PHYS 121)
Physics 112 – Basic Physics II (or PHYS 122)

Mathematics (4 credits)

MATH 151 – Calculus and Analytic Geometry I

Statistics (4 credits) – choose one

STAT 350 – Statistics with Applications
STAT 355 – Intro to Probability and Statistics for Scientists/Engineers
BTEC 350 – Statistics for Translational Life Science

MATH/STAT/CMSC elective – choose one

MATH 152 – Calculus and Analytic Geometry II
MATH 221 – Introduction to Linear Algebra
STAT 414 – Environmental Statistics
STAT 420 – Statistics for Bioinformatics
STAT 454 – Applied Statistics
CMSC 104 – Problem Solving and Computer Programming
CMSC 201 – Computer Science I for Majors

Notes for BIOL B.S.

Students must earn a “C” or better in all major courses AND course prerequisites.
At least half of the required BIOL courses and electives must be completed in residence: for the BIOL B.S. at least six of eleven BIOL classes must be taken at UMBC .
BIOL 141, BIOL 142 and BIOL 302 are considered an academic sequence. Once you pass BIOL 302 you may not go back and repeat BIOL 141 or BIOL 142.
See the Undergraduate Catalog for additional non-BIOL courses that may be used as electives for the major. Biologically relevant 4XX level courses from other departments may be acceptable as a ‘Column B’ elective for the BIOL BS degree. Prior approval from the Biological Sciences Department Undergraduate Committee is required, using the form indicated in note 12. Such courses may not be used for the BIOL 4XX requirement.
The following courses are similar in content and only one in each grouping can be used towards major requirements: BIOL 305 and 307; BIOL 430, BTEC 430, and CHEM 437 and 438; BIOL 444 and BTEC 444; or BIOL 495 and BTEC 395. See the Undergraduate Catalog for more information.
Students may substitute CHEM 352 and CHEM 352L (must take both) for one Column B course. The CHEM 352/352L only counts for one BIOL residency requirement course (See Note 2).
At least one BIOL 4XX lecture course must be taken at UMBC. BIOL 430, 442, 497H, 499 and Lab classes may NOT be used to satisfy this requirement.
Students may substitute PHYS 121 for PHYS 111, and PHYS 122 for PHYS 112, but should note that PHYS 121/122 may not satisfy some professional school admission requirements.
Students using a STAT class as a Column B course may not use the same course to fulfill the MATH/STAT/CMSC elective requirement.
The Biological Sciences Department evaluates completion of major requirements based on COURSES completed, not CREDITS completed.
Students who are BIOC (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) majors who wish to also pursue a BIOL B.S. degree may use Core BIOL, CHEM, MATH and PHYS courses from the BIOC major towards the BIOL degree, but MUST take separate electives for the two degrees (ie., no ‘double-dipping for the electives).
Under exceptional circumstances, the Department may waive or alter a BIOL major requirement. Students seeking to petition for a waiver must consult with their academic adviser, then may submit a ‘Petition for Waiver/Substitution of Program Requirements’ form .

Legacy B.S. in Biological Sciences (for pre-Fall 2010 students)

If you enrolled in college for the first time before Fall 2010 you may be following an earlier version of our B.S. curriculum. The requirements are found here – pre-Fall 2010 B.S. curriculum – however some classes required in that curriculum are no longer available. Students pursuing a legacy degree can transfer to one of the new degree programs by filing a Change of Major Form which can be found on the Registrar’s web site.

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University of Florida

Biology | CLAS

The Biology majors combine the faculty and resources of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences to prepare undergraduates for careers in the biological sciences, advanced study in professional and graduate schools, productive citizenship and leadership, and lifelong learning. The program is comprehensive and flexible, emphasizing the diverse forms, processes, and systems of life. Students in the program complete required and elective courses that promote critical thinking through the investigation and understanding of principles and unifying themes that govern living systems. The Biology major offers a broader approach to biology than is available through a major in botany, zoology, or other specialized biological sciences majors.

About this Program

College: Liberal Arts and Sciences
Degrees: Bachelor of Arts | Bachelor of Science
Specializations: Integrative Biology (BS) | Preprofessional Biology (BS)
Credits for Degree: 120

To graduate with this major, students must complete all university, college, and major requirements.

Department Information

The Department of Biology studies life at all levels from molecules to the biosphere to understand the evolution, structure, maintenance and dynamics of biological systems. The department's teaching and research provide the integrative and conceptual foundations of the life sciences. Website

Email | 352.273.0125 (tel) | 352.392.3704 (fax)

P.O. BOX 118525 220 BARTRAM HALL GAINESVILLE FL 32611-8525 Map

Biology UF Online
Biology | CALS
Botany Minor
Botany | CALS
Botany | CLAS
Combination Degrees
Zoology Minor

The Biology degrees develop fundamental knowledge of animals, plants and microorganisms. The degrees and specializations are tailored to meet the needs of preprofessional students, those students preparing for graduate studies in biology or specialized areas, and those seeking careers in education, the allied health professions and interdisciplinary fields such as environmental or biotechnology law, science journalism, and bioscience management.

Bachelor of Science

The CLAS Bachelor of Science in biology offers two specializations.

Bachelor of Science | Integrative Biology

Designed for students preparing for graduate studies in biology or specialized areas such as ecology, evolution, genetics, molecular biology, physiology, and systematics.

Bachelor of Science | Preprofessional Biology

Designed for students preparing for admission to medical, dental, optometry, veterinary, or other professional schools.

Bachelor of Arts

The CLAS Bachelor of Arts in biology is a flexible degree that is best suited for students interested in a career in education, the allied health professions, and interdisciplinary fields such as environmental or biotechnology law, science journalism, and bioscience management.

Coursework for the Majors

The BS Biology specializations require significant introductory coursework and credits in general biology, calculus and/or statistics, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics. The BA requires less preparation in mathematics, chemistry and physics. Students who are uncertain about the program that best suits their goals should consult a biology advisor for information and curriculum planning. Students can also individualize their curricula with additional life science courses from other departments, colleges and units at UF.

Relevant Minors and Certificates

Ufteach program.

There is a severe shortage of qualified secondary school biology teachers in Florida and nationwide. Students interested in becoming part of this high-demand profession should see a biology advisor or the UFTeach advisor. UFTeach students complete the UFTeach minor in science teaching with their BA or BS in Biology and have the coursework and preparation for professional teacher certification in Florida when they graduate. More Info

All biology majors are encouraged to participate in research. Research experience is valuable on many levels: it diversifies the college experience, teaches how scientists apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real world questions, provides the opportunity to work with and get to know researchers who are the best in their field, enables participation in cutting edge scientific questions and techniques, enhances the student's resume/CV when applying to graduate or professional school and, finally, it is essential to help the student determine if science is an appropriate career choice. More Info

CLAS biology majors may participate in research for course credit, as a scholar (e.g., University Scholar), as a volunteer, or, in rare cases, as a paid research assistant.

Biology is the study of the many diverse forms, processes and systems of life. These studies range across all levels of the biological hierarchy, from the simplest to the most complex life forms, across all environments on the earth and across recent and evolutionary time that interconnects ancestors to their descendants.

To understand this vast diversity, the field of biology correspondingly relies on integrative and comparative approaches for the resolution of the general processes, principles and unifying themes that govern living systems. Biology is therefore very interdisciplinary and biologists rely on knowledge from the physical sciences and mathematics, as well as from across the disciplines and subdisciplines of biology for advances and breakthroughs.

The Biology major is administered jointly by the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Before Graduating Students Must

Achieve a passing score for all content subsections of the Major Field Test for Biology. Content subscore areas are molecular biology and genetics, organismal biology, evolution, ecology and population biology.
Achieve a passing score on the analytical skills assessment indicator of the Major Field Test for Biology.
Achieve a passing score on the bioethics module quiz in BSC 4936 . The content of the module and quiz are reviewed and approved by a faculty committee.
Achieve a passing score on the scientific literacy paper assignment given in BSC 4936 . This paper is graded using a faculty-developed rubric.
Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

Students in the Major Will Learn to

Student learning outcomes | slos.

Identify, describe, and explain the basic terminology, concepts, methodologies and theories used within the biological sciences.

Critical Thinking

Analyze biological information and develop reasoned solutions to problems using the processes and applications of scientific inquiry.
Discriminate ethical behavior from unethical behavior in scientific research.

Communication

Communicate knowledge, ideas, and reasoning clearly and effectively in written or oral forms appropriate to the biological sciences.

Curriculum Map

I = Introduced; R = Reinforced; A = Assessed

Assessment Types

Major field test for biology
Bioethics module
Scientific literacy paper

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Bachelor of science in biology, prescribed work common to all options, option i: ecology, evolution, and behavior, option ii: human biology, option iii: marine science, option iv: microbiology and infectious diseases, option v: cell and molecular biology, option vii: plant biology, option viii: teaching, option ix: biology honors, option x: computational biology, option xii: genetics and genomics, special requirements, order and choice of work.

The Bachelor of Science in Biology degree program offers 11 Options. The Options have certain prescribed work in common, and each Option has additional requirements. Many fields in the study of biological systems require broadly based training that transcends the classical boundaries of biology. In planning a program of work to meet his or her degree requirements, a student interested in specializing in these interdisciplinary areas should choose courses both in biology and in sciences that complement biology.

Students who plan to follow Option IX, Biology Honors, must be admitted to the Dean’s Scholars Honors Program .

In the process of fulfilling degree requirements, all students must complete:

Core curriculum
Skills and experience flags: a. Writing: two flagged courses beyond Rhetoric and Writing 306 or its equivalent, including one at the upper-division level b. Quantitative reasoning: one flagged course c. Global cultures: one flagged course d. Cultural diversity in the United States: one flagged course e. Ethics: one flagged course f. Independent inquiry: one flagged course

Courses that may be used to fulfill flag requirements are identified in the Course Schedule . They may be used simultaneously to fulfill other requirements, unless otherwise specified. Please note, students may not earn the cultural diversity in the United States and the global cultures flags from the same course. Students are encouraged to discuss options with their academic advisors.

Mathematics 408C , 408R , or 408N and 408S . Students who intend to take additional calculus coursework should begin the sequence with 408C or 408N
Statistics and Data Sciences 320E
Chemistry 301 or CH 301H , 302 or CH 302H , and 204
Physics 317K , 117M , 317L , and 117N (recommended)
Physics 301 , 101L , 316 , and 116L
Physics 303K , 103M , 303L , and 103N
Physics 302K , 102M , 302L , and 102N

Option VIII Teaching majors may substitute Science 365 and Physics 108 for Physics 316 and 116L , 317L and 117N , 303L and 103N , or 302L and 102N ; Physics 108 is offered on the pass/fail basis.

e. Biology, including:

i. Biology 311C , 311D , and 325 , or 315H and 325H .

ii. Biology 206L , 208L , or 226L . This requirement must be completed prior to progressing to additional laboratory requirement in the degree options. Students pursuing Option III, Marine and Freshwater Science, and Option IV, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, must complete Biology 226L . Students pursuing Option VIII, Teaching, must complete either Biology 206L or 208L .

iii. Biology 370

4. All students must complete at least 36 semester hours of upper-division coursework; at least 21 semester hours of upper-division coursework in biology must be completed in residence at the University.

Additional Prescribed Work for Each Option

5. One course or pair of courses in each of the following areas:

a. Ecology: Biology 357 , 373 , or Marine Science 320 and 120L

b. Behavior and comparative physiology: Biology 322 and 122L , 359K , or 361T

c. Taxon-based course: Biology 321L , 324 and 124L , BIO 327 and BIO 127L , 340L , 448L , 351 , 352 , 353F , 453L , 354L , 455L , 463L , 369F , 369L , Marine Science 352D , 354 , 354C , 354E

Three additional courses or pair of courses chosen from coursework in 5a through 5c and from Biology 438L , 471G , 456L , 359R , 364 , 373L , 374 and 174L , 375 , 478L , Marine Science 352C , and 354Q
One course in cellular, developmental, genetics, microbiology, or molecular biology: Biology 320 , 320L , 325L , 325T , 326R , 328 , 331L , 344 , 350 , 349L , 350M , 366R
One laboratory course or pair of courses containing a substantial field component: Biology 321L , 340L , 353F , 453L , 354L , 455L , 456L , 369L , 373L , Marine Science 320 and 120L , 352C , 352D , 354 , 354C , 354E . A laboratory course or pair of courses may also count toward requirements 5 through 7
One additional laboratory course: Biology 320L , 321L , 124L , BIO 127L , 325L , 331L , 438L , 340L , 448L , 349L , 353F , 453L , 354L , 455L , 456L , 369L , 373L , 174L , 478L , Marine Science 120L , 352C , 352D , 354 , 354C , 354E , 354Q . One-hour laboratory courses may require credit for or registration in a complementary lecture course. A laboratory course may also count toward requirements 5 through 7. A course counted toward requirement 8 may not also count toward requirement 9.
One course chosen from the following: Chemistry 320M , Computer Science 303E or 313E , Geological Sciences 401 or 303 , SDS 324E or 322E

Enough additional coursework to make a total of 120 semester hours

Chemistry 320M , 320N , 220C

Biochemistry 369 or 339F

Biology 346
Three hours from genetics, genomics, and computational biology: Biochemistry 339N , Biology 321G , 325T , 356E , 327G , 354C , 366 , 366R , 471 , SDS 322E
Six hours from cellular, developmental, and molecular biology: Biochemistry 339J , 339M , 364F , Biology 320 , 326R , 330 , 335 , 336 , 355 , 339M , 344 , 360K , 350 , 350M , 361
Three hours from ecology, environment, and health: Biology 326R , 327D , BIO 329 , 330 , 361 , 364 , Nutrition 306 or 312
Four hours from physiology and anatomy: Biology 446L , 365S and 165U , 478L
One additional laboratory course from: Biology 320L , 122L , 124L , 128L , BIO 129L , 325L , 328D , 230L , 331L , 340L , 446L , 448L , 349L , 353F , 453L , 354L , 455L , 456L , 260L , 361L , 463L , 165U , 369F , 369L , 371L , 373L , 174L , 478L , Marine Science 120L , 152L . One-hour laboratory courses may require credit for or registration in a complementary lecture course.

Chemistry 320M

Biology 326R and 373
Marine Science 101 , 310 , 320 , and 120L
Eighteen hours of coursework including 12 hours in Marine Science, chosen from: Biology 320 , 321L , 328 , 344 , 354L , 357 , 361T , 364 , 366 , 375 , Geological Sciences 341G , Marine Science 440 , 348 (Topic 1: Training Cruise(s) : Research in Biological Oceanography ), 352 , 352C , 352D , 352E , 152L , 152S , 252S , 152T , 252T , 353 , 354 , 354C , 354E , 354J , 354Q , 354T , 354U , 355C , 356 , 357 , 367K , 170 , 270 , 370 . Six hours in Marine Science must be completed at the Marine Science Institute in Port Aransas, Texas.
Biochemistry 369 or 339F , and Chemistry 320M
Biology 326R , 330 , 355 , 339M , 360K , 361 , 366
Two upper-division biology laboratory courses chosen from: Biology 230L , 260L , and 361L . Biology 377 , 377 -FRI, 379H may be used for one of the laboratory courses if approved in advance by the microbiology faculty advisor.
Fifteen additional hours in upper-division biochemistry, biology, and chemistry
Biology 320 , 326R , 350 , and 344 or 350M
Two laboratory courses chosen from: Biology 320L , 325L , 331L , 349L
One additional upper-division laboratory course in biology. Biology 377 , 377 -FRI, 379H may be used if approved in advance by the cell and molecular biology faculty advisor.
Eighteen additional hours in upper-division biochemistry, biology, and chemistry
Biology 328 , 373 , and 322 and 122L , 324 and 124L , or 463L
Two additional upper-division laboratory courses; Biology 377 , 377 -FRI, 379H may be used for one of the laboratory courses if approved in advance by the plant biology faculty advisor.
Plant molecular biology: Biochemistry 369 or 339F , Biology 320 and 350M , and Chemistry 320M
Plant environmental biology: Biology 357 , 374 , and 375
Eighteen additional hours in upper-division biochemistry, biology, chemistry, and marine science

This Option is designed to fulfill the course requirements for certification as a middle grades or secondary school science teacher in Texas; the student chooses either composite science certification with biology as the primary teaching field or life science certification. However, completion of the course requirements does not guarantee the student’s certification. Information about additional certification requirements is available from the UTeach-Natural Sciences academic advisor.

Chemistry 320M , 320N , and 220C or 320M and Biochemistry 369
Biology 320 , 226L , 326R , and either 324 and 124L , 322 and 122L , or 328 and 128L
At least three semester hours chosen from the following courses in physiology, neurobiology, and behavior: Biology 438L , 359K , 359R , 361T , 365S , 367C
At least three semester hours chosen from: Biology 340L , 448L , 453L , 455L , 456L , 463L , 364 , 369L , 373 , Marine Science 352D , 354 , 354C
One of the following research methods courses: Biology 328D , 337 (Topic 2: Research Methods: UTeach ), Chemistry 368 (Topic 1: Research Methods: UTeach ), Physics 341 (Topic 7: Research Methods: UTeach )
History 329U or Philosophy 329U
For composite science certification: Biochemistry 369 (to be counted as upper-division biology hours) and six semester hours of coursework in geological sciences. Courses intended for nonscience majors may not be counted toward this requirement. The remaining composite certification content requirements are met by the chemistry, physics, and science courses used to fulfill requirements 3c, 3d, 3ei, and 5.
For life science certification: Biology 373 , and three additional semester hours of biology chosen from the courses listed in requirement 6b and 6c
Curriculum and Instruction 651S (Topic 4: Secondary School Teaching Practicum: Science )
Curriculum and Instruction 365C or UTeach-Natural Sciences 350
Curriculum and Instruction 365D or UTeach-Natural Sciences 355
Curriculum and Instruction 365E or UTeach-Natural Sciences 360
UTeach-Natural Sciences 101 , 110 , and 170
Students seeking middle grades certification must complete the following courses: Educational Psychology 350G , or Psychology 301 and 304 ; and Curriculum and Instruction 339E
Enough additional coursework to make a total of 126 semester hours
Breadth requirement: An honors mathematics course; Biology 315H and 325H ; CH 301H and CH 302H ; and an additional three-hour honors-designated course from a department in College of Natural Sciences. Credit earned by examination may not be counted toward this requirement.
Physics 301 , 101L , 316 , and 116L ;
Physics 317K , 117M , 317L , and 117N ; or
Biology 206L or 208L and Chemistry 204
Biology 370
Cellular, developmental, and molecular biology: Biochemistry 369 or 339F , 339J , 339M , 364F , Biology 320 , 326R , 330 , 335 , 336 , 355 , 339M , 344 , 360K , 350 , 350M , 361
Genetics and genomics: Biochemistry 339N , Biology 321G , 325T , 356E , 327G , 354C , 366 , 366R , 471 , SDS 322E
Physiology, neuroscience, and behavior: Biology 328 , 438L , 359K , 359R , 361T , 367C , 365S , 374 , Marine Science 355C
Ecology, evolution, and biodiversity: Biology 322 , 324 , 346 , 351 , 357 , 364 , 471G , 373 , 375 , Marine Science 320 , 352C , 352D , 352E , 353 , 354 , 354C , 354E , 354Q , 356 , 357
Three upper-division laboratory courses in biology; Biology 377 or 379H may be used as only one of the three required upper-division laboratory courses. Courses used to fulfill this requirement may also be counted toward requirement 8.
A section of Undergraduate Studies 302 or 303 that is approved by the departmental honors advisor
A section of Rhetoric and Writing 309S that is restricted to students in the Dean’s Scholars Honors Program
Two semesters of Biology 379H
Fifteen additional semester hours of coursework approved by the departmental honors advisor
Six semester hours of coursework from the College of Liberal Arts and/or the College of Fine Arts
Statistics and Data Sciences 329C or Mathematics 340L or 341 ; Mathematics 362K or Statistics and Data Sciences 321 ; and Statistics and Data Sciences 322E
Two courses from: Computer Science 303E , 313E , 323E , 323H , 324E , 326E , 327E , 329E , Mathematics 408D , 358K , 378K , Statistics and Data Sciences 322 , 323 , 324E , 335 , 352 , 353 , 358 , 374C , 374E .
Two courses from genetics, genomics, and computational biology: Biochemistry 339N , Biology 321G , 325T , 356E , 327G , 354C , 366 , 366R , 471
Cellular, development, and molecular biology: Biochemistry 369 or 339F , 339J , 339M , 364F , Biology 320 , 326R , 330 , 335 , 336 , 355 , 339M , 344 , 360K , 350 , 350M , 361
Physiology, neuroscience, and behavior: Biology 328 , 438L , 359K , 359R , 361T , 367C , 365S , 374 ; Neuroscience 330 ; Marine Science 355C
One additional laboratory course chosen from: Biology 320L , 122L , 124L , 128L , BIO 129L , 325L , 328D , 230L , 331L , 340L , 446L , 448L , 349L , 353F , 453L , 354L , 455L , 456L , 260L , 361L , 463L , 165U , 369F , 369L , 371L , 373L , 174L , 478L , Marine Science 120L , 152L
Nine hours of additional upper-division biochemistry, biology, chemistry, marine science, mathematics, physics, and statistics and data sciences

Biology 320 , 325T , 350 , 344 , and 325L

Three hours from: Biochemistry 339N , Biology 321G , SDS 322E

Six hours from: Biology 326R , 356E , 327G , 354C , 366 , 366R

Biology 320L or 349L

Nine additional hours in upper-division biochemistry, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and statistics and data sciences

Students in all Options must fulfill both the University's General Requirements for graduation and the college requirements . They must also earn a grade of at least C - in each mathematics and science course required for the degree, and a grade point average in these courses of at least 2.00. More information about grades and the grade point average is given in the General Information Catalog .

To graduate and be recommended for certification, students who follow the teaching Option must have a University grade point average of at least 2.50. They must earn a grade of at least C- in the supporting course in requirement 8, and in each of the professional development courses listed in requirement 10 and must pass the final teaching portfolio review; those seeking middle grades certification must also earn a grade of at least C- in each of the courses listed in requirement 11. For information about the portfolio review and additional teacher certification requirements, students should consult the UTeach-Natural Sciences academic advisor.

To graduate under Option IX, students must remain in good standing in the Dean’s Scholars Honors Program , must submit an honors thesis approved by the departmental honors advisor, and present their research in an approved public forum, such as the college’s annual Undergraduate Research Forum. More information about the Undergraduate Research Forum is available at https://cns.utexas.edu/ .

Students begin the Bachelor of Science in Biology degree program with six hours of introductory biology for science majors ( Biology 311C and 311D ), as well as Chemistry 301 or CH 301H and 302 or CH 302H and Mathematics 408C , 408N , or 408R . Students should consult with academic advisors about specific concentrations within biology, about appropriate courses in mathematics and physical sciences, and about course load and the balance between laboratory and nonlaboratory work. Most students select an Option by the end of the second year and take at least 21 hours of upper-division coursework in the major in the third and fourth years.

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2023-2024 General Information Catalog

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Biology Majors

UCSB biology undergraduate program offers BS and BA degrees in 10 biology majors.

Biology Pre-major

Biological sciences ba and bs, aquatic biology, biochemistry and molecular biology, cell and developmental biology, ecology and evolution, microbiology, pharmacology, biology announcements.

Current students should use the biology undergraduate email list to receive important information.

General Questions

academic advisors.

We recommend taking two upper division biology courses per quarter (assuming 8.0 units per quarter) and, if possible, fulfilling area specific requirements first starting one's Junior/3rd year. This will give you the required 48.0 units required for most of our majors. For more detailed recommendations for the MCDB majors please go to: Resource Documents: Recommended Schedule - MCDB majors.

At the beginning of Spring quarter as we require completion of chemistry 1A and 1B with grades of C or better.

The biology program does not offer a minor.

Freshman admits may declare the full major at the end of their second year provided that they have completed MCDB 1A,1B, EEMB 2, 3 (2.0 gpa required), MCDB 1AL, EEMB 3L and either MCDB 1BL or EEMB 2L (2.0 gpa required), Chem 1ABC and two other preparatory courses (2.0 gpa required). Please see the Pre-Biology major requirement sheet for more detailed information.

Junior transfer students may declare the full major after their second quarter (Winter) - usually 4 upper division biology courses completed (2.0 gpa required)

For all students - At the time of petition for full major, you must have a 2.0 or higher grade point average in all courses attempted toward the major within preparatory and within upper division. Also grades earned must meet the grade prerequisites for the full major.

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Undergraduate program.

We support undergraduate scholarly endeavors, train students for an array of careers, and communicate to them the impact and significance of biology. We offer a broad range of learning opportunities, including traditional classroom experiences, hands-on learning in the field and the laboratory, independent study, and full student engagement in research. As a biology major, your career goals may include biological research, health professions, business, or education.

Why Study Biology?

Did you ever wonder why leaves turn red in the Fall? Or why are some animals so incredibly weird-looking? Maybe you wondered why some people are more predisposed to diseases than others, or how your genetic makeup contributes to making you who you are. Biology is the answer to each and every one of these questions. From proteins inside your cells all the way to the vast extensions of the world's most diverse ecosystems, Biology is the study of life.

A degree in Biology will not only teach you about nature, it will also teach you how to think critically, how to design and conduct research experiments, and how to communicate scientific findings clearly and concisely to your peers and to the general public.

Our Degrees

We offer multiple pathways for students to graduate with a Biology degree. Our offerings include both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts , along with 12 optional Concentration areas where you can more narrowly focus your studies.

A minor in Biology is also available.

Resources for Students

We've compiled information to assist our current students working toward their degree, as well as those considering our program:

Advising Information
Guide for First-Year Students
Transfer Credit
Graduation with Distinction
Study Away Opportunities
Research & Independent Study
Departmental Awards
Biology Majors Union
Duke Biology’s Mission Statement
AJED Annual and Semester Reports
AJED Meeting Notes
Biology Cultural Association (BCA)
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Antiracism Committee (IDEA)
Learning from Baboons: Dr. Susan Alberts
Extremophiles and Systems Biology: Dr. Amy Schmid
How Cells Manage Stress: Dr. Gustavo Silva
Predator-Prey Interactions in a Changing World: Dr. Jean Philippe Gibert
Exploring the Extracellular Matrix: Dr. David Sherwood
Cell Division's Missing Link: Dr. Masayuki Onishi
Listening in to Birdsong: Dr. Steve Nowicki
Biogeochemistry as Ecosystem Accounting: Dr. Emily Bernhardt
Building a Dynamic Nervous System: Dr. Pelin Volkan
Investigating a Key Plant Hormone: Dr. Lucia Strader
Imagining Visual Ecology: Dr. Sönke Johnsen
Outreach Opportunities Across the Triangle
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Biology: General Biology, BA

Related programs.

Biology: Computational Biology, BA
Biology: Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, BA
Biology: Mathematical Biology, BA
Biology: Mechanisms of Disease, BA
Biology: Molecular & Cell Biology, BA
Biology: Neurobiology, BA

Studies in biology can serve as preparation for graduate study in the biological sciences, graduate training in health-related professions, teaching, or employment in a laboratory or conservation-related job. The Biology Department offers courses in many areas of biology, ranging from the workings of cells and cellular components to species interactions and ecosystem function. Penn's curriculum keeps pace with recent developments in molecular biology and the study of evolutionary processes, including proteomics, computational genomics, molecular evolution, and epigenetics. The General Biology Major allows students to explore the wide range of topics in Biology, while also providing a strong foundation in core subject areas such as cell and molecular biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology and evolution.

The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.

With permission from the Undergraduate Chair, two course units away or LPS courses may count toward the Biology major. This limit does not apply to Study Abroad.

For more information: http://www.bio.upenn.edu/undergraduate/current-students/major-requirements

For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.

You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement .

A third course is needed if the additional CHEM or PHYS courses total less than 2 course units.

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 in the major and the thesis must be approved by the departmental honors committee.

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

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Biological Sciences

College of Biological Sciences

Bachelor of Arts

A single nerve cell, transmitting electrical impulses in a continuous chain of stimulus and response. A wind-polished cypress tree, its roots digging deeper into the soil with every passing season. A patient receiving chemotherapy to help target and destroy the cancer invading her body. Each of these situations, and every function of every living being, is within the scope of interest of a major in biological sciences.

Major Requirements

You will begin your studies with foundation courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics, followed by depth coursework that spans the many biology disciplines. Students may choose to pursue a bachelor of arts (A.B.) degree, which provides greater opportunities to incorporate coursework outside the Biological Sciences major. Students who pursue a bachelor of science degree will take more upper-division coursework than A.B. candidates and can choose from areas of interest such as molecular biology and genetics, animal behavior, plant growth and development, bioinformatics, marine biology, forensics and microbiology.

Contact Information

Food Scientist
Technical Writer
Conservation Biologist
Veterinarian

Graduate Study

Biochemistry
Molecular, cellular and developmental biology
Microbiology
Plant biology
Plant pathology
Public health

Alumni Employers

Contra Costa Pathology Associate
California Department of Food and Agriculture
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
A is for Apple, Inc

Related Degrees

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Animal Biology

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

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Internship opportunities

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Your course roadmap

Find the detailed course requirements for your program and map out your path to graduation.

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The faculty you will work with

Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.

Global learning programs

Expand your horizons by studying abroad or pursuing global learning on campus.

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Undergraduate research

Get hands on with your interests. Participate in one of our hundreds of research opportunities.

What can I do with my biological sciences major?

Connect your biological sciences major to a career.

Department of Biology

Undergraduate.

Sample BA Schedule
Upper-level Electives
Sample BS Schedule
Information for Prospective Students
Master’s Program Advanced Course Requirements
Summer Research Opportunities

The Johns Hopkins Department of Biology offers a rigorous undergraduate program leading to either a BA or a BS degree, as well as a five-year program leading to a combined bachelor’s/master’s degree. The program guides students as they develop a detailed, nuanced view of biology, integrating knowledge at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels.

Learning Goals

Students receiving BS or BA degrees in biology should:

Have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary for success in graduate programs in biological sciences or in professional (medical, dental, veterinary, nursing) school
Understand scientific techniques used to define biological principles, distinguish among these techniques to select one appropriate to answer the question posed, and be able to design an experiment including selecting controls, recording observations, and drawing conclusions based on experimental results
Be able to analyze and answer biologically relevant problems through the successful application of quantitative and analytical methods
Know the basic building blocks of biological macromolecules; be familiar with cellular processes and understand the subcellular and cellular organization of eukaryotic cells, including cytoskeleton and organelles; and possess knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of living organisms
Be able to distinguish between the genetic organization and gene expression of viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotes, and describe the mechanisms of inheritance and evolution
Be capable of describing the organization and development of major organ systems in mammals and other organisms, and outlining the roles of gene expression and cell-cell communication in development.

In addition, students earning a BS degree should:

Integrate themes and principles learned in the classroom through conducting original research.

Each Biology and Molecular and Cellular Biology major is assigned an advisor when they declare the major. These faculty members are available to answer questions related to academic or even personal issues. The advising process is an integral part of the educational experience at Hopkins and it is important that students take advantage of the opportunity to directly interact with a faculty member on a regular basis. Advisors can help students on issues ranging from course requirements and course content to choosing a research lab or making career decisions for after graduation.

Pre-Med Track

Johns Hopkins offers an undergraduate pre-med program, but it is not a major. It is an advising track program through the Office of Pre-Professional Advising . Any Johns Hopkins undergraduate student pursuing any major may also pursue the pre-med advising track.

The pre-professional advisers work with the students, providing them with academic advising, assistance in selecting the proper courses, and help with the medical school application process.

Master’s Program

The mission of the JHU Molecular and Cellular Biology Master’s Program is to provide Johns Hopkins Biology or Molecular and Cellular Biology majors with advanced training to expand their preparation for professional school and/or a career in science or medicine.

Department of Biological Sciences >
Undergraduate >
Degree Programs >

BS in Biological Sciences

The Bachelor of Science program provides the opportunity for in-depth study within particular sub-disciplines of the biological sciences.

The Bachelor of Science degree program provides the opportunity for in-depth study within particular sub-disciplines of the biological sciences. Students may select a broad-based degree, or may choose a track that specializes in cell and molecular biology, ecology and evolutionary biology, neurobiology, or pre-health studies.

Degree Programs

Bachelor of Science (broad-based degree)

Application to Major: Online Form

Bachelor of Science

44 Required credit hours in biological sciences
38 Required credit hours in chemistry, physics and mathematics
82 Total credit hours required for Bachelor of Science degree

Required lecture courses in biological sciences

BIO 200 Evolutionary Biology
BIO 201 Cell Biology
BIO 211 Cell Biology Lab
BIO 303 General Physiology
BIO 305 Fundamentals of Biological Chemistry
BIO 319 Genetics

Required lab courses in biological sciences (choose four total)

APY 346LAB - Dissections in Comparative Primate Anatomy
BIO 313LBR - General Physiology Laboratory
BIO 315LLB - Fundamentals of Biological Chemistry Laboratory
BIO 329LLB - Genetics Laboratory
BIO 330LAB - Special Topics
BIO 332LBR - Advanced Molecular Biology Laboratory
BIO 370LBR - Developmental Biology Laboratory
BIO 400LLB - Bioinformatics / Genome Analysis
BIO 420LAB - Cytogenetics
BIO 497TUT - Honors in Biology
EVS 412LAB - Field Course in Tropical Marine Ecology

Required courses in chemistry, mathematics, and physics

CHE 101/CHE 113 (CHE 101 prior to Fall 2019) or CHE 105 or CHE 107/CHE 127 General Chemistry
CHE 102/CHE 114 (CHE 102 prior to Fall 2019) or CHE 106 or CHE 108/CHE 128 General Chemistry
CHE 201 Organic Chemistry or CHE 203/205
CHE 202 Organic Chemistry or CHE 204/206
MTH 121 or MTH 141 Calculus I
MTH 122 Survey of Calculus and its Applications II, or MTH 142 College Calculus II, or STA 119 Statistical methods, or, PSY 207 Psychological Statistics
PHY 101/151 or PHY 107 General Physics I
PHY 102/152 or PHY 108/158 General Physics II/Lab

Take additional Biological Sciences or Cognate electives to reach the minimum of 44 credit for the Biological Sciences coursework for the Bachelor of Science degree.

The list of applicable electives can be found in the UB catalog from the year you started the Biological Sciences major. This is the year you matriculated at UB if you started as a Biological Sciences major, or, if you did not begin as a Biological Sciences major, the year you were accepted into the major

Refer to the current UB Undergraduate Catalog here.
The archived UB Undergraduate Catalogs are here.
Selection of electives should be done in consultation your academic advisor.

BS Track in Pre-Health Studies

82 Total credit hours required for Bachelor of Science degree

—Required BIO, CHE, MTH, and PHY courses same as required for BA and for BS (broad-based degree)

—Required laboratory courses in Biological Sciences (choose four total)

BIO 313 General Physiology Lab

And three of the following:

BIO 315 Fundamentals of Biological Chemistry Lab
BIO 329 Genetics Lab
BIO 332 Advanced Molecular Biology Lab
BIO 370 Developmental Biology Lab
BIO 400 Bioinformatics (lab)
BIO 420 Cytogenetics Lab
APY 346 Dissections in Comparative Primate Anatomy

—Elective courses: Make additional choices from the following courses to reach the 44 credit minimum requirement for the Bachelor of Science degree.

BIO 301 Intermediate Cell Biology
BIO 302 Molecular Biology
BIO 317 Medical Entomology/Parasitology
BIO 320 Cytogenetics (Lecture)
BIO 325 Biochemistry of Human Diseases
BIO 344 Neuroethology
BIO 367 Developmental Biology
BIO 369 Biology of the Microbes
BIO 400 Bioinformatics (Lecture)
BIO 401 Advanced Biological Chemistry
BIO 402 Advanced Cell and Developmental Biology 1
BIO 404 Advanced Molecular Genetics
BIO 405 Advanced Cell and Developmental Biology 2
BIO 406 Signal Transduction
BIO 417 Neurobiology
BIO 418 Integrative Neuroscience
BIO 425 Special Topics – Cancer Immunology
BIO 426 Special Topics: Genes in Cancer
BIO 448 Endocrinology
BIO 449 Comparative Genomics
BIO 450 Human Evolutionary Genomics
BIO 495 Undergraduate Supervised Teaching (Up to 3 credits total of BIO 495, 496, or 498 can be used).
BIO 496 Biological Sciences Internship (Up to 3 credits total of BIO 495, 496, or 498 can be used).
BIO 498 Undergraduate Research (Up to 3 credits total of BIO 495, 496, or 498 can be used).
BIO 461/NMD 421 Basic Radiation Science
APY 345 Comparative Primate Anatomy
APY 348 Anthropological Osteology
APY 358 Evolutionary Medicine
MIC 401 General Microbiology
PMY 311 Chemistry of Drug Action
NRS 301 The Brain, or, PSY 351 Biopsychology
PGY 451/452 Human Physiology
PSY 402 Psychopharmacology
PSY 451 Drug Addiction
PUB 340 Introduction to Epidemiology

BS Track in Cellular and Molecular Biology

and for this concentration:

BIO 302 Introduction to Molecular Biology
BIO 332 Advanced Molecular Biology Laboratory

and three of the following:

BIO 400 Bioinformatics (Lab)
BIO 420 Cytogenetics Laboratory

—Elective courses : make choices from the following courses in Cell and Molecular Biology to reach the 44 credit minimum requirement for the Bachelor of Science degree:

BIO 325 Biochemistry of Human Disease
BIO 387 Communicating in Biology
BIO 424 Cancer Immunology
BIO 433 Human Genetic Diseases

BS Track in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

and for this concentration:

BIO 309 Ecology
BIO 437 Pattern and Process in Evolution OR BIO 438 Evolutionary Ecology
EVS 310 Ecological Methods

and THREE of the following:

—Elective courses: make choices from the following courses to reach the 44 credit minimum requirement for the Bachelor of Science degree.

BIO 318 Plant Biology
BIO 407 Advanced Ecology
BIO 432 Microbial Genomics and Metagenomics
BIO 437 Pattern and Process in Evolution
BIO 438 Evolutionary Ecology
BIO 456 Evolutionary Genetics
BIO 460 Foundations of Developmental Evolution
APY 348 Forensic Anthropological Osteology
APY 347 Understanding Human Variation
APY 494 The Evolution of Hominin Behavior
EVS 411 Marine Ecology
EVS 412 Field Course in Tropical Marine Ecology
EVS 413 Ecology of Invasive Species
EVS 445 Restoration Ecology
EVS 452 Limnology (must submit BIO program petition if taking this prior to 2023)
GEO 356 Forest Ecology
GEO 435 Conservation Biogeography
GEO 445 Restoration Ecology
GLY 400 Stratigraphy and Paleobiology
GLY 458 Macroevolution

BS Track in Neuroscience

38 Required credit hours inmath, chemistry, and physics
82 Total required credit hours

—Required laboratory courses in biological sciences (choose four total)

APY 346 Comparative Primate Anatomy Lab
BIO 426 Special Topics: Human Genetic Diseases
BIO 440 Experimental Endocrinology
NRS 301 The Brain, or, PSY 351 Biopsychology
PSY 443 Neurobiology of Animal Communication

See the possible timetable for completion of the BS degree in Biological Sciences listed in the UB CATALOG.

CURRENT STUDENTS — CHANGE MAJOR OR MINOR

Submit the CAS Major/Minor Change Request form to request one of the following changes to your academic plan:

Add a major, minor, or certificate in the College of Arts and Sciences
Drop any major
Drop any minor

The Biological Sciences major is offered in both the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Arts & Sciences . The major is administered by The Office of Undergraduate Biology.

Biological Sciences

a student sits alone at a desk and looks into a microscope

Biological Sciences Major

Biological sciences majors are enrolled in either the college of agriculture and life sciences or the college of arts and sciences..

Students can tailor their individual academic goals by selecting the college of enrollment, one of 13 biology concentrations, and specific courses to meet requirements.

Major Requirements

Biological sciences majors are enrolled in either the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences or the College of Arts and Sciences . The requirements of the major itself are identical in both colleges, although the individual requirements of the two colleges will result in biological sciences majors taking somewhat different overall undergraduate programs.

Students can tailor their individual academic goals by selecting the college of enrollment, one of 13 biology concentrations , and specific courses to meet requirements. Biological sciences students are broadly educated in chemistry, physics and mathematics while developing an excellent foundation in biology from our entry-level biology courses and more advanced courses in genetics and biochemistry. Students who wish to graduate with honors must apply to the Biology Honors Program in the second semester of their junior year. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative and science/math grade point average and write a thesis based on original research conducted under the direct guidance of a Cornell faculty member.

Exceptions need to be approved by the student’s faculty advisor and the OUB via the Biological Sciences petition.
Biological Sciences Major Requirements for 2023-2024
AP, IB, GCE Credit for Biological Sciences
Apply to the Major
Concentration Requirements

Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing the Biological Sciences major, students will be able to:

Explain the basic structures and fundamental processes of life over a range of levels of organization within the full scope of biology from molecules to ecosystems, integrated with the basic principles of inheritance and evolution.
Apply quantitative reasoning and basic principles from the physical sciences to thinking about biology
Explain principles by which hypotheses can be evaluated scientifically using examples of observations and experiments that have shaped biological thought
Explain, evaluate, and effectively interpret claims, theories, and assumptions in the Biological Sciences, including those presented in the scientific literature.
Communicate scientific arguments and ideas clearly and explicitly through writing and speech.
Demonstrate a deeper working knowledge of one or more biology disciplines (specific outcomes defined by the programs of study)

Looking to petition for an exception to the requirements?

Exceptions to the requirements need to be approved by the student’s faculty advisor and the OUB via the Biological Sciences petition .

Bio By the Numbers

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Advising Professionals

The Office of Undergraduate Biology is staffed with advising professionals who help students plan for and reach their academic and career goals.

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Degree: BS, BA

Campus: Columbus, Lima, Marion

College: Arts and Sciences

Biologists study the processes fundamental to all forms of life. Biology strives to answer questions such as: How do biochemical processes control a cell’s behavior? How do organisms grow and reproduce? How do pollutants threaten certain life forms? How can human life be sustained and lengthened by medical advances?

The biology major exposes students to a broad base of biological knowledge, provides depth of experience in advanced topics and develops competence in scientific disciplines that are supportive of the life sciences (mathematics, physics and chemistry). The biology major is a stepping stone from which students may go into research, various health professions, teaching, business, or service in government or independent agencies.

Get started

Upon admission to the university, students can declare a major in biology within the College of Arts and Sciences.

The biology major consists of a minimum of 32 semester hours of biological sciences courses at the 2000 level or above. Three courses must be laboratory courses or must include a laboratory component.

Course work for the biology major comprises the following three components, chosen in consultation with a biology advisor to meet the individual student’s interests and needs.

core requirement: Biology 3401: Integrated Biology
specialization options: education in the life sciences, forensic biology, pre-health professions
electives in the major

A full description of the biology major is available from the Center for Life Sciences Education at clse.osu.edu .

Not included in the biology major, but required by it, are courses that provide a basic understanding of the sciences upon which biological sciences are built. All biology majors (BS degree) complete mathematics through calculus, one semester of statistics for life sciences, and one year each of general chemistry, organic chemistry with laboratory, general physics and general biology. A BA degree in biology is also available, requiring fewer basic science and mathematics courses.

These basic math and science requirements of the biology major correspond to the requirements of pre-medicine, pre-optometry, pre-dentistry and pre-veterinary medicine. Biology majors are among the most broadly educated science students, preparing them for diverse science-related careers.

Biology students may take courses at Stone Laboratory , the university’s “Island Campus.” Located on Gibraltar Island in Put-in-Bay on Lake Erie, this freshwater biological field station and research laboratory offers introductory and upper-level courses suitable for undergraduate students in biological sciences.

Study abroad

A variety of study abroad opportunities covering the applications of life sciences are available around the globe, including in Africa, Antarctica, Central America, England, France and Norway.

Honors and Scholars

The Honors Program in the College of Arts and Sciences provides high-ability students opportunities to construct an enhanced curriculum that includes Honors courses and upper-division courses to meet general requirements, rigorous sequences, Honors seminars and a significant research experience.

Scholars programs feature residential communities for talented students who share academic interests and career goals. For example, two Scholars programs of interest to biology majors are the Biological Sciences Scholars Program , which emphasizes research, individualized advising, and significant lab and field experience; and the Health Sciences Scholars Program , which prepares students for careers in health sciences and health care.

Because no other learning experience can match the value of a hands-on research project, students in the biology major are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research opportunities. Such opportunities allow students to develop their scientific curiosity and to discover whether a career in research is a good fit.

Biology students may choose to work with a faculty member in the biological sciences or they may work in labs in other departments and colleges. Learn more at ugresearch.osu.edu .

Student organizations

Several departmental undergraduate student clubs and an honorary student organization enhance learning opportunities and the quality of the undergraduate experience for students in the biological sciences. These clubs provide opportunities for undergraduate students to interact with faculty, to discuss careers and research areas with scientists from the Ohio State campus and beyond, and to participate in service activities.

Possible careers

Biology students interested in careers as research scientists or college professors must first obtain a PhD. In the private sector, a master’s degree may be sufficient for a research or product-development position. Some biology majors, particularly those with research experience, find research assistant positions directly after obtaining their bachelor’s degrees.

Many biology students go on to careers in medicine or some other health profession. While a major in the biological sciences is not a requirement for medical school (or other professional schools in the health sciences), it has many advantages with its exposure to the basic principles of life’s processes and the theoretical underpinnings of sophisticated medical procedures.

Some students move into other science careers such as education (K–12), business (e.g., pharmaceutical sales), or jobs in nature centers, parks and recreation, or government.

Salary estimates

Salaries are commensurate with level of education and prior job experiences. Salaries in general are dependent upon a variety of economic factors and change with market trends.

Program objectives

Graduates of the biology program will be prepared to:

explain major biological concepts and discuss how these are connected with various areas of the biological and physical sciences;
apply concepts from mathematics and other science disciplines for the analysis of processes in living organisms;
demonstrate problem solving, analytical and communication skills that will provide the foundation for lifelong learning and career development;
value biology as an integral part of society and everyday life.

Future students

More about this major

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What inspires your curiosity? The Biology program at the University of Washington firmly believes that curiosity should lead you to the field of study that sparks an undeniable interest. Biology students have myriad opportunities to explore subjects and issues that influence our lives and the surrounding environment in which we live. Through challenging and engaging courses, fieldwork, research, and internships, our students develop a keen awareness of the miraculous nature of Biology. Additionally, the depth and breadth of biological studies at UW serve as a foundation for broad and diverse career options.

The Department of Biology is currently the largest undergraduate major on the UW Seattle campus. The majors below provide training in biology at all levels, from introductory to highly advanced and give students the opportunity to choose a curriculum that best suits their needs. The department primarily focuses on plant and animal physiology, ecology, evolution, and cell biology.

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Biology Major

The Major in Biology is designed to educate students in both the breadth of subject matter encompassed by the biological sciences and the rapidly advancing knowledge at the forefront of this discipline.

Students interested in all aspects of biology

Professor Jennifer Fox

The Biology major is perfect for me because it allows me to explore a variety of interests within the field, ranging from genetics to ecology and molecular biology. With a diversity of classes, professors, and research opportunities, the major has prepared me to enter any field of biological study and helped me discover my passion for genetics research. Finn Thompson, COL ’22

About the Major

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The Biology Major provides a comprehensive perspective on all aspects of our biological world, including ecology, evolutionary systems, behavior, genetics, microbiology, molecular and cellular biology, immunology, developmental biology, and neurobiology. All students begin their program as Biology majors.

Students may remain intentionally broad or may select a concentration in an area of biology, either in Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology or in Ecology, Evolution and Behavior.
Alternatively, students may declare in their sophomore year as one of the specialized majors offered from the Department: Biology of Global Health , Environmental Biology , or Neurobiology .

Build Your Experience

Undergraduate students in a lab writing down notes. They are wearing PPE and microscopes and vials can be seen on the table.

The inclusion of a RISE (Research Intensive Senior Experience) project allows the student to have the experience of basic or medical research, ecological or computational research, teaching and researching pedagogy, or research in conjunction with an internship. Students can start research in the junior year and apply tutorial research for course credit .

Career Path

View of two medical students sitting around a table with their laptops open. They are wearing white coats.

The Biology Major is a strong platform from which to embark on a multitude of paths including graduate and medical school, as well as careers served by having a foundational understanding of biological systems, such as in education, science policy, scientific writing, healthcare, law, and drug development.

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The science of biology aims to understand the workings of life in all its varied forms. The Department of Biology is home to world-class laboratories with faculty dedicated to pushing the frontiers of knowledge and educating the next generation of scientists and biomedical professionals. Research and teaching span the range of modern biology, from microbes to multicellular animals and plants, and from molecular and cellular processes to genetics, development, behavior, and evolution.

Students are exposed to modern concepts and state-of-the-art methods throughout their studies, from introductory courses to upper-level electives that explore major fields of biology in depth. Each Biology major is assigned a faculty adviser from the department and meets with that professor to select courses in the context of the student’s academic and career goals. Faculty advisers also guide students in pursuing opportunities for curricular enhancement, such as research experiences and study away.

Major in Biology

Three options are available to students pursuing a major in Biology. The standard Biology track gives majors a broad background, with the laboratory, quantitative, and reasoning skills needed for today’s biology. The Ecology track also provides students with the broad background in modern biology, but with a focus on ecological concepts, approaches, and analytical methods. The Global Public Health/Biology major provides students with strong foundations in biological science and global public health, with a focus on one of three emphasis areas: genetics and genomics, infectious diseases, or environmental health.

Minor in Biology

The department offers minors in Biology designed to hone skills in one of four contemporary areas: Molecular and Cell Biology , Genetics , Genomics and Bioinformatics , or Environmental Biology.

Course Planning

The department offers approximately 100 courses. Visit our Courses site to find information about when Biology courses are offered, what major/minor requirements they satisfy, what they cover, and which professors are teaching them. And, as always, your adviser is available to answer questions and provide guidance.

It is rare for science students at any college to be able to study abroad while keeping up with their required coursework. The Department of Biology offers opportunities for Biology majors to study away , including a specially designed spring-semester program at NYU Tel Aviv , where we offer Molecular and Cell Biology II, Organic Chemistry II, and research internships at Tel Aviv University. Students stay on track with the major while reaping the benefits of being part of an inclusive, nurturing NYU community in a dynamic and complex society with an outsized impact on scientific inquiry.

Undergraduate Research and Honors

Biology students are encouraged to expand their learning by joining research projects in faculty laboratories. Outstanding and highly motivated students may pursue Departmental Honors by performing research that culminates in an undergraduate thesis.

After Graduation

The Biology majors and minors provide outstanding preparation for careers in research, academia, medicine, dentistry, and related fields. Graduates of the department have a remarkable record of success in acceptance into professional schools and in establishing notable careers in the biomedical sciences. Please keep in touch ! We love hearing about how our graduates are doing.

Students with questions about majoring or minoring in biology should visit the office of the Department of Biology or contact [email protected] .

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Core and program requirements (from the bulletin).

Major/Minor in Biology
Course Offerings

Related Information

Current Course Schedule (Albert)
Biology Course Planning

Useful Links

CAS Bulletin
Accelerated BA/MS Program

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Admissions Requirements
Fees and Funding
Studying at Oxford

Course overview

UCAS code: C100 Entrance requirements: A*AA (with the A* in a science or Maths) Course duration: 4 years (MBiol); 3 years (BA)

Subject requirements

Required subjects: Biology and either Chemistry, Physics or Maths Recommended subjects: Not applicable Helpful subjects: Not applicable

Other course requirements

Admissions tests: None Written Work: None

Admissions statistics*

Interviewed: 48% Successful: 15% Intake: 106 *3-year average 2021-23

Email: [email protected]

Unistats information for this course can be found at the bottom of the page

Please note that there may be no data available if the number of course participants is very small.

About the course

Biology, the study of life, is an exciting and rapidly developing subject. Breakthroughs in Biology are playing a key role in addressing global challenges, from disease and poverty to biodiversity loss and climate change.

The study of living things has undergone tremendous progress in recent years. This progress has been accompanied by an integration of different biological disciplines.

This newly revised and upgraded Oxford Biology course was first introduced in 2019. The structure of the course encourages a cross-disciplinary approach. Following an introduction to fundamental biological principles in the first year, the second and third years allow students to choose options of particular interest and specialise in these areas with increasing depth. The options cover a comprehensive range of topics, which currently include but are not limited to:

animal behaviour and physiology
cell biology
conservation
developmental biology
disease biology and host-microbe interactions
evolutionary biology
plant physiology and molecular biology.

The course offers an optional fourth year. This means that students can either leave after three years with a BA or choose to stay on and complete an extended research project under the supervision of qualified academic staff. Progression to the 4-year MBiol is contingent on satisfactory academic performance in the first three years.

The Biology degree is taught by the Department of Biology, with almost all teaching taking place in the University's Science Area. Additional resources include the Oxford University Museum of Natural History , the Botanic Garden , the Herbarium , the Arboretum , the John Krebs Field Station and Wytham Woods . There is a compulsory UK residential field course to study ecology in the first year, and optional residential field courses in the UK and overseas are available in the second year.

The course puts a strong emphasis on research skills training, which is an integral part of teaching across all years.

Compulsory skills training in the first year includes carefully selected dissections that have been designed with animal welfare and conservation principles in mind.

Skills training in the second year is also compulsory and covers a whole range of more advanced practical and quantitative skills essential for a modern biologist. Students can choose from a range of extended skills courses that last one or two weeks. Examples include ecological fieldwork (in the UK or overseas), genome sequencing and genome editing.

In the third year, students specialise on a narrower range of options, and skills training continues in the form of journal clubs and computer classes. Please note that despite the University's efforts to subsidise the course, fieldwork in the second, third and fourth years requires financial contributions from the student.

Unistats information

Discover Uni course data provides applicants with Unistats statistics about undergraduate life at Oxford for a particular undergraduate course.

Please select 'see course data' to view the full Unistats data for Biology.

Please note that there may be no data available if the number of course participants is very small.

Visit the Studying at Oxford section of this page for a more general insight into what studying here is likely to be like.

A typical week

In the first year, your typical weekly timetable can be broken down into the following categories:

Lectures: around eight hours a week
Research skills: around six hours of laboratory practical demonstrations (practicals), one hour of computer practicals and one hour of group discussion sessions each week
Tutorials: this will depend on individual colleges, but on average one hour a week, plus preparation time.

In the second and third years, the lecture and research skills workload remains roughly the same although there is a greater element of choice over the subjects studied.

Lectures and practical class sizes will vary depending on the options chosen, ranging from as few as 20 students in a class up to potentially 120 students in a class. In the third and fourth years, variable hours are also spent on research projects.

Most tutorials, classes, and lectures are delivered by staff who are tutors in their subject. Many are world-leading experts with years of experience in teaching and research. Some teaching may also be delivered by trained PhD students and early career researchers with hands-on research experience.

To find out more about how our teaching year is structured, visit our Academic Year page.

Course structure

Year 4 (optional mbiol*).

* Students can choose to leave after three years and graduate with a BA, or they can continue to a fourth year and graduate with an MBiol. Progression to the MBiol is contingent on satisfactory academic performance in the first three years.

The content and format of this course may change in some circumstances. Read further information about potential course changes .

Academic requirements

Wherever possible, your grades are considered in the context in which they have been achieved.

Read further information on how we use contextual data .

If a practical component forms part of any of your science A‐levels used to meet your offer, we expect you to pass it.

If English is not your first language you may also need to meet our English language requirements .

All candidates must follow the application procedure as shown on our Applying to Oxford pages.

The following information gives specific details for students applying for this course.

All applicants must apply for the MBiol. Students can choose to leave after three years and graduate with a BA, or they can continue to a fourth year and graduate with an MBiol. Progression to the MBiol is contingent on satisfactory academic performance in the first three years.

Written work and admissions tests

You do not need to take a written test or submit any written work as part of an application for this course.

What are tutors looking for?

Tutors are looking for an enthusiasm for biology and potential to study it at university.

Interviews are not designed to test factual knowledge primarily, instead, they show an applicant’s ability to think critically and independently, and to understand the biological knowledge they have accrued up to that time. Be prepared to talk about particular aspects of biology that you find personally interesting.

The process is rigorous but sympathetic. Applicants may be asked to examine and comment on biological diagrams or images, or to interpret a graph, a written passage or a simple set of data, provided during the interview.

Visit the Biology website for more detail on the selection criteria for this course.

Around 40% of Oxford biology graduates go on to further study such as a research doctorate or postgraduate course in an applied field, while the vast majority of the remainder embark on a professional career after graduating in areas as diverse as education, research, not for profit, health, environmental work, media, marketing, and consultancy.

Hannah, now a research assistant at the Royal Veterinary College, reports:

‘My degree gave me a keen interest in my subject and the skills to pursue it. So far I have tracked rhinos across deserts, chased birds across oceans, and am currently working with chickens!’

After graduation, Jenny spent several years in a medical communication agency environment and now has her own business, working directly with major global pharmaceutical companies. She explains:

‘The tutorial system and writing opportunities during my degree were critical in developing the skills needed to analyse and interpret data, present them clearly and concisely in context and discuss results of clinical trials.’

The new Biology course was introduced for the first time in 2019; hence only career data for a single cohort of graduates is currently available. The information reported here is therefore based on the more extensive data from the previous 3-year BA in Biological Sciences, corroborated by information from the first cohort of graduates from the new course.

Note: These annual fees are for full-time students who begin this undergraduate course here in 2024. Course fee information for courses starting in 2025 will be updated in September.

We don't want anyone who has the academic ability to get a place to study here to be held back by their financial circumstances. To meet that aim, Oxford offers one of the most generous financial support packages available for UK students and this may be supplemented by support from your college.

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

For more information please refer to our course fees page . Fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on likely increases to fees and charges.

Living costs

Living costs at Oxford might be less than you’d expect, as our world-class resources and college provision can help keep costs down.

Living costs for the academic year starting in 2024 are estimated to be between £1,345 and £1,955 for each month you are in Oxford. Our academic year is made up of three eight-week terms, so you would not usually need to be in Oxford for much more than six months of the year but may wish to budget over a nine-month period to ensure you also have sufficient funds during the holidays to meet essential costs. For further details please visit our living costs webpage .

Financial support

**If you have studied at undergraduate level before and completed your course, you will be classed as an Equivalent or Lower Qualification student (ELQ) and won’t be eligible to receive government or Oxford funding

Fees, Funding and Scholarship search

Additional Fees and Charges Information for Biology

First-year students are required to undertake a UK-based residential field course in the summer term (typically 6 days). You will study living organisms in a range of environments, both terrestrial and marine, and the content is assessed as part of the first-year examinations. The University covers all costs for this compulsory trip, including food and accommodation.

Towards the end of the second year, you will complete a two-week skills course. A range of courses will be offered and will include some optional field trips away from Oxford. In 2024, this will include:

Oxford and Dorset: to study conservation programmes aiming to reverse biodiversity loss;
Northern Ireland and Wytham: to study the field ecology of birds, split between Northern Ireland and our field-study centre in Oxford;
Borneo: to study tropical rainforest ecology of both animals and plants.

As a guide, estimated costs for these optional courses in 2024 are:

£440 for Oxford/Dorset;
£475 for Northern Ireland/Wytham, plus whatever students spend on lunches and evening meals during the trip;
£1900 for Borneo.

If you stay on for the fourth year, as part of your course requirements, you will undertake a project. Depending on your choice of topic and the research tools required, you may have to contribute to costs, but only in exceptional circumstances, for example, if you choose to conduct extensive fieldwork in expensive locations. You may choose a project that will incur no extra costs.

Contextual information

Unistats course data from Discover Uni provides applicants with statistics about a particular undergraduate course at Oxford. For a more holistic insight into what studying your chosen course here is likely to be like, we would encourage you to view the information below as well as to explore our website more widely.

The Oxford tutorial

College tutorials are central to teaching at Oxford. Typically, they take place in your college and are led by your academic tutor(s) who teach as well as do their own research. Students will also receive teaching in a variety of other ways, depending on the course. This will include lectures and classes, and may include laboratory work and fieldwork. However, tutorials offer a level of personalised attention from academic experts unavailable at most universities.

During tutorials (normally lasting an hour), college subject tutors will give you and one or two tutorial partners feedback on prepared work and cover a topic in depth. The other student(s) in your tutorials will be doing the same course as you. Such regular and rigorous academic discussion develops and facilitates learning in a way that isn’t possible through lectures alone. Tutorials also allow for close progress monitoring so tutors can quickly provide additional support if necessary.

Read more about tutorials and an Oxford education

College life

Our colleges are at the heart of Oxford’s reputation as one of the best universities in the world.

At Oxford, everyone is a member of a college as well as their subject department(s) and the University. Students therefore have both the benefits of belonging to a large, renowned institution and to a small and friendly academic community. Each college or hall is made up of academic and support staff, and students. Colleges provide a safe, supportive environment leaving you free to focus on your studies, enjoy time with friends and make the most of the huge variety of opportunities.
Porters’ lodge (a staffed entrance and reception)
Dining hall
Lending library (often open 24/7 in term time)
Student accommodation
Tutors’ teaching rooms
Chapel and/or music rooms
Green spaces
Common room (known as the JCR).
All first-year students are offered college accommodation either on the main site of their college or in a nearby college annexe. This means that your neighbours will also be ‘freshers’ and new to life at Oxford. This accommodation is guaranteed, so you don’t need to worry about finding somewhere to live after accepting a place here, all of this is organised for you before you arrive.
All colleges offer at least one further year of accommodation and some offer it for the entire duration of your degree. You may choose to take up the option to live in your college for the whole of your time at Oxford, or you might decide to arrange your own accommodation after your first year – perhaps because you want to live with friends from other colleges.
While college academic tutors primarily support your academic development, you can also ask their advice on other things. Lots of other college staff including welfare officers help students settle in and are available to offer guidance on practical or health matters. Current students also actively support students in earlier years, sometimes as part of a college ‘family’ or as peer supporters trained by the University’s Counselling Service.

Read more about Oxford colleges and how you choose

FIND OUT MORE

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Our 2024 undergraduate open days will be held on 26 and 27 June and 20 September.

Which Oxford colleges offer my course?
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Bachelor of Science in Biology, BS

Program at a glance.

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Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

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Explore Novel Biological Research and Thrive Beyond the Classroom

Major in biology and get a background in chemical, mathematical, and physical sciences, as well as broad preparation in the biological sciences. The Bachelor of Science in Biology degree program at UCF allows you to choose coursework in general biology or select a track in one of five areas. Through electives selected with the help of your faculty advisor, you’ll have the opportunity to work in subspecialties, including molecular biology, conservation biology and marine biology. Additionally this program can prepare you for a future in human or veterinary medicine and other professional degrees.

Program coursework helps you develop critical thinking skills and exposes you to a wide variety of scientific knowledge from various biology subdisciplines. You’ll learn skills related to the conduct of science, including hypothesis testing, experimental design, accessing and understanding scientific literature, analyzing data, as well as laboratory and field skills specific to certain scientific areas. Plus, through independent study contracts, gain first-hand experience and exposure to specialized topics beyond the classroom.

The diverse background and training that you’ll receive through the biology program opens the door to numerous opportunities after completing your degree — from human health to environmental science to conservation. You can also continue on to more advanced study in medical, biomedical, life sciences, and other disciplines.

Related Programs:

Biology (BS) – Ecology, Evolutionary and Conservation
Biology (BS) – Marine and Aquatic
Biology (BS) – Plant Sciences
Biology (BS) – Pre-Health Professional
Biology (BS) – Zoology and Pre-Veterinarian Science

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

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Check out your application requirements. See what freshmen and transfer students need to apply.

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Course Overview

General biology 1.

Gain insight on the cellular and chemical basis of life, genetics and the theory of evolution. Emphasis on problem solving, analysis, synthesis of information and applying data effectively.

General Biology 2

Expand on what you learned in General Biology 1. You’ll explore organismal anatomy and physiology as it relates to biodiversity, ecology and evolution. Emphasis on problem solving, analysis, synthesis of information and applying data effectively.

Principles of Ecology

Learn the elements of ecosystems, biogeochemical cycling, environmental factor interactions, population dynamics and community development.

Biology Skills You’ll Learn

Explore many of the broad concepts that underpin our understanding of the natural world.
Gain experience implementing the scientific method, including hypothesis testing, experimental design, accessing and understanding the scientific literature and analyzing data.
Acquire the knowledge and practical skills needed to be highly competitive for exceptional career opportunities following graduation or continue on to a graduate degree.

Career Opportunities

Medical Scientist
Natural Sciences Manager
Biological Scientist
Life Scientist
Data Science Manager
Research Scientist
Laboratory Manager
Clinical Research Coordinator

News and Updates

Check out more stories

University of Central Florida Colleges

The Biology B.S. degree allows the student to choose coursework to be awarded the general Biology B.S. degree or to select a track in one of five areas, which are: Ecology, Evolutionary and Conservation Biology - Marine and Aquatic Biology - Plant Sciences - Pre-Health Professional Biology - Zoology and Pre-Veterinarian Science. These tracks are designed to align students with specific courses that will prepare them for the job market or more advanced study.

Degree Requirements

Students who change degree programs and select this major must adopt the most current catalog.
Co-op or internship credit cannot be used in this major
Departmental Residency Requirement consists of at least 22 semester hours of regularly scheduled 3000-4000 level courses taken from the UCF Department of Biology.
Students seeking a double major must satisfy the requirements for both majors and must take no fewer than 40 semester hours of upper division restricted elective course work appropriate to the combined areas of specialization in the two majors.
Courses designated in Common Program Prerequisites and Core Requirements are usually completed in the first 60 hours.
A "C" (2.0) or better is required in all BSC or PCB prefix courses meeting Core Requirements.
Students must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all UCF courses taken in the Common Program Prerequisites, the Biology Core and the Upper Division Restricted Electives.
All prerequisites of courses taught within the College of Sciences will be enforced.
BSC 4422L - Biology Laboratory Techniques
BSC 4937 - Instructional Experiences in Undergraduate Biology
BSC 2010C - Biology I
BSC 2011C - Biology II
CHM 2045C - Chemistry Fundamentals I
CHM 2046 - Chemistry Fundamentals II
CHM 2046L - Chemistry Fundamentals Laboratory
CHM 2210 - Organic Chemistry I
CHM 2211 - Organic Chemistry II
CHM 2211L - Organic Laboratory Techniques I
PHY 2053C - College Physics I (or PHY 2053 and PHY 2053L)
PHY 2054C - College Physics II (or PHY 2054 and PHY 2054L)

Core Requirements: Basic Level

Completion of the required GEP and CPP fulfills the Chemistry Sequence (CHM2045C, CHM2046, & CHM2046L), the Physics Sequence (PHY2053C/PHY2054C or PHY2048C/PHY2049C - or lecture lab combinations), the Mathematics course requirement (MAC2311C, MAC2233 or MAC2253), and the Statistics course requirement (STA2023).
Organic sequence - Preferred
CHM2210 - Organic Chemistry I (3)
CHM2211 - Organic Chemistry II (3)
CHM2211L - Organic Laboratory Techniques I (2)
CHM2205 - Introduction to Organic and Biochemistry (5)
CHM3120 - Analytical Chemistry (3)
CHM3120L - Analytical Chemistry Laboratory (1)

Core Requirements: Advanced Level

Note: A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) is required in these Biology courses to satisfy the requirement, and to allow their use as a course prerequisite.
PCB3023 - Molecular Cell Biology (3)
PCB3044 - Principles of Ecology (3)
PCB3063 - Genetics (3)
PCB4683 - Evolutionary Biology (4)
Students should complete the Biology Laboratories requirement according to their selected track.
Students are required to take two labs from those listed below
One of these labs must come from section A. The second lab must come from section B, which may include a lab from section A that was not originally selected.
PCB3044L - Principles of Ecology Laboratory (1)
PCB3063L - Genetics Laboratory (1)
PCB4683L - Evolutionary Biology Lab (1)
Each track must complete one of the following laboratories that differ from the A. Laboratory completed above.
 BOT3018C - Culinary Botany Across the Cultures (4)  BOT4223C - Plant Anatomy (4)  BOT4282C - Plant Microtechniques (4)  BOT4303C - Plant Kingdom (4)  BOT4503C - Plant Physiology (4)  BOT4530C - Plant Genomics and Biochemistry (4)  BOT4713C - Plant Taxonomy (5)  BOT4430C - Biology of Fungi (4)  BSC4312C - Advanced Marine Biology (4)  BSC4445C - Genomics Laboratory (4)  ENY3571 - Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping (3)  ENY4004C - General Entomology (4)  PCB3044L - Principles of Ecology Laboratory (1)  PCB3063L - Genetics Laboratory (1)  PCB4301C - Wetland Ecology & Biogeochemistry (4)  PCB4315C - Marine Ecology of Florida (4)  PCB4353L - Florida Ecology Lab (1)  PCB4683L - Evolutionary Biology Lab (1)  ZOO3713C - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (5)  ZOO3713L - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Lab (1)  ZOO4205C - Invertebrate Biodiversity (4)  ZOO4310C - Vertebrate Evolution & Ecology (4)  ZOO4405C - Sea Turtle Ecology and Conservation Internship (3)  ZOO4462C - Herpetology (4)  ZOO4480L - Mammalogy Lab (1)  ZOO4603C - Embryology/Development (5)  ZOO4756C - Comparative Vertebrate Histology (4)  ZOO4910L - Research Experience in Animal Behavior in a Zoo Environment (3)

Biology Tracks - Notes

Students must complete at least one course dealing exclusively with zoology and one course dealing exclusively with botany
A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) is required in each course taken to meet the "Required Electives" within each track (does not apply to courses taken to meet "Restricted Electives").
A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) overall is required for the track.
No substitutions are allowed.
At least 10 hours of the Upper Division Restricted electives must be taken within the UCF Biology Department. Courses offered by the Department of Biology have been identified. Additional courses may be used to meet requirements with approval of the undergraduate program coordinator via petition.
Transferred courses must be at a 3000 level or higher, and be evaluated by the undergraduate program coordinator, in order to count as an Upper Division Restricted Elective.
Courses at the 5000 level are only open to seniors and beginning graduate students. Faculty teaching course must approve override.

Biology Tracks

A biology major who meets the GEP, core, lab, and upper division restricted electives requirements, as well as all UCF graduation requirements is eligible to receive a general B.S. in Biology. Unique courses must be selected from the groups below. Additional courses may be added to the list of restricted electives in the future and will appear on the myKnight audit.
BOTANY REQUIREMENT
BOT3015 - Principles of Plant Science (3)
BOT3018C - Culinary Botany Across the Cultures (4)
BOT3802 - Ethnobotany (3)
BOT4223C - Plant Anatomy (4)
BOT4303C - Plant Kingdom (4)
BOT4503C - Plant Physiology (4)
BOT4530C - Plant Genomics and Biochemistry (4)
BOT4713C - Plant Taxonomy (5)
BOT4850 - Medical Botany (3)
ZOOLOGY REQUIREMENT
ANT3550C - Primatology (3)
ENY3571 - Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping (3)
ENY4004C - General Entomology (4)
PAZ4234 - Zoo and Aquarium Management (3)
PCB4413 - Sensory Ecology (3)
PCB4723 - Animal Physiology (4)
ZOO3454 - Ichthyology (3)
ZOO3713 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (4)
ZOO4272 - Ornithology (3)
ZOO4310C - Vertebrate Evolution & Ecology (4)
ZOO4405C - Sea Turtle Ecology and Conservation Internship (3)
ZOO4462C - Herpetology (4)
ZOO4480 - Mammalogy (4)
ZOO4513 - Animal Behavior (3)
ZOO4603C - Embryology/Development (5)
ZOO4756C - Comparative Vertebrate Histology (4)
ZOO4910L - Research Experience in Animal Behavior in a Zoo Environment (3)
UPPER LEVEL BIOLOGY REQUIREMENT
BOT4282C - Plant Microtechniques (4)
BOT4430C - Biology of Fungi (4)
BOT4922 - Plant Science Capstone (2)
BSC3052 - Conservation Biology (3)
BSC3312 - Principles of Marine Biology (3)
BSC3453C - Biological Research Methods and Experimental Design (3)
BSC4312C - Advanced Marine Biology (4)
BSC4330 - Invasion Biology (3)
BSC4445C - Genomics Laboratory (4)
BSC4456C - Programming for Biologists (3)
BSC4821 - Biogeography (4)
BSC4861L - Urban Ecological Field Studies (3)
BSC4927 - Scientific and Public Engagement for Biology Majors (3)
OCE3008 - Oceanography (3)
PCB3343L - Principles of Field Ecology (5)
PCB3354 - Tropical Ecology and Conservation (3)
PCB3355L - Tropical Marine Biology (2)
PCB3442 - Aquatic Ecology (3)
PCB4280 - Molecular Immunology (3)
PCB4301C - Wetland Ecology & Biogeochemistry (4)
PCB4315C - Marine Ecology of Florida (4)
PCB4353 - Florida Ecology, Natural History and Conservation (3)
PCB4353L - Florida Ecology Lab (1)
PCB4402 - Disease Ecology & Ecoimmunology (3)
PCB4462 - GIS for Biologists and Ecologists (3)
PCB4514 - Epigenetics (3)
PCB4678 - Evolution and Medicine (3)
PCB4684 - Population Genetics (3)
PCB5435C - Marine Ecology of Florida (4)
ZOO4205C - Invertebrate Biodiversity (4)
ZOO4480L - Mammalogy Lab (1)
RESTRICTED COURSES
BCH4024 - Medical Biochemistry (4)
BCH4053 - Biochemistry I (3)
BCH4054 - Biochemistry II (3)
BSC4473C - Scientific Diving (4)
BSC4910C - Group Effort Applied Research in Biology (4)
MCB3020C - General Microbiology (5)
PCB3233 - Immunology (3)
PCB3522H - Honors Molecular Biology I (3)
PCB3703C - Human Physiology (4)
PCB4524 - Molecular Biology II (3)
PCB4575 - Wildlife Genomics (3)
ZOO3733C - Human Anatomy (4)
A "C" (2.0) or better is required in each course taken in the below requirement.
Additional courses may be added to the below list of Restricted Electives and will appear on the myKnight audit.
PCB5326C - Ecosystems of Florida (5)
If PCB3044L or PCB4683L is completed as the A. Laboratory requirement, it cannot be applied here.
Earn at least 8 credits from the following types of courses: Additional Biology elective courses must be selected from the General Biology Track's Restricted Elective List. If the botany, zoology, and/or the B. Laboratory requirement is NOT fulfilled in the above track requirements, then those courses must be completed here.
Earn at least 6 credits from the following types of courses: Additional Biology elective courses must be selected from the General Biology Track's Restricted Elective List. If the botany, zoology, and/or the second laboratory requirement is NOT fulfilled in the above track requirements, then those courses must be completed here.
BOT4970H - Honors Undergraduate Thesis I (1 - 99)
BOT4912 - Directed Independent Research (1 - 99)
Earn at least 4 credits from the following types of courses: Additional Biology elective courses must be selected from the General Biology Track's Restricted Elective List. If the botany, zoology, and/or the second laboratory requirement is NOT fulfilled in the above track requirements, then those courses must be completed here.
A student cannot choose both BCH4053 and BCH4024 to fulfill the following requirement.
PCB3522 - Molecular Biology I (3)
Earn at least 7 credits from the following types of courses: Additional Biology elective courses must be selected from the General Biology Track's Restricted Elective List. If the botany, zoology, and/or the second laboratory requirement is NOT fulfilled in the above track requirements, then those courses must be completed here.

Grand Total Credits: 43 - 48

Total undergraduate credit hours required: 120.

To fulfil the 120 hours required in this degree, select primarily from upper level courses after consulting with your departmental advisor. May be outside of the department.

Foreign Language Requirements

Departmental Exit Requirements

A "C" (2.0) or better is required in all Core Courses with a BSC or PCB prefix.
All attempts of UCF courses that could meet requirements are included in the major GPA calculation. All attempts of UCF courses listed for the major taken beyond the minimum required are included in the GPA calculation (e.g, additional restricted electives taken beyond the required 22 hours).
Students are required to pass the comprehensive exit exam in Biology. We recommend that this exam be taken as soon as you have completed all of the Biology core courses. A passing grade is determined as a scaled score greater than the bottom 10% of nation-wide test takers.
Biology majors are discouraged from taking courses as a transient student at a Florida College System institution, except in situations where the first semester of a two semester sequence has already been taken at a Florida College System institution.

University Minimum Exit Requirements

A 2.0 UCF GPA
42 semester hours of upper division credit completed
60 semester hours earned after CLEP awarded
30 of the last 39 hours of course work must be completed in residency at UCF.
A maximum of 45 hours of extension, correspondence, CLEP, Credit by Exam, and Armed Forces credits permitted.
Complete the General Education Program, the Gordon Rule, and nine hours of Summer credit.

Honors In Major

Application and admissions through The Burnett Honors College and department. More information about Honors in the Major can be found at https://honors.ucf.edu/research/.

Related Programs

Environmental Engineering (B.S.Env.E)
Biomedical Sciences (B.S.)
Secondary Education, Science Education Biology Track (B.S.)
Environmental Studies (B.S.)
Biology Minor
Environmental Studies Minor
Biomedical Sciences Minor

Advising Notes

Students are urged to contact their departmental advisor before registering for courses.
It is the student's responsibility to ensure they have satisfied course prerequisites before registering for a class.
Students are encouraged to contact their department advisor regarding substitutions for requirements. These will be accepted on a case by case basis.
Contact your college advisor in the College of Sciences Advising Services (COSAS) office (CSB 250) for more information about overall progress toward your degree, GEP and other university requirements, academic probation, special problems as well as general academic advising.

Transfer Notes

Lower division courses do not substitute for upper division courses.
Courses transferred from private and out-of-state schools must be evaluated for equivalency credit by the undergraduate program coordinator. The student must provide all supporting information.
Submit your requests for course evaluations at https://sciences.ucf.edu/cosas/ and click on "COS Course Evaluation".
Honors versions of courses will substitute for regular versions.
BSC 2010C: BSCX040/X040L
BSC 2011C: BSCX041/X041L; ZOOX010/X010L; BOTX010/X010L; BOTX013/X013L
CHM 2046/CHM 2046L: CHMX046C
Math/Statistics and Physics: Although a number of courses will satisfy the CPP, please refer to the catalog copy for the specific courses that are required in the program.

Program Academic Learning Compacts

Program Academic Learning Compacts (student learning outcomes) for undergraduate programs are located at: http://www.oeas.ucf.edu/alc/academic_learning_compacts.htm

Equipment Fees

Part-Time Student: $24.85 per term
Full-Time Student: $49.70 per term

The Biology major is designed to provide foundational knowledge across large scale (organism, population, ecosystem) and small scale (molecular and cellular) systems with the opportunity to specialize in a concentration (Cell and Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Ecology and Conservation Biology). Students develop an understanding of the scientific method through integrated laboratory and student-designed research projects. These inquiry-based activities develop our students’ technical, written and oral communication, critical thinking, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. The program prepares students for success in diverse careers including technical careers in the molecular, microbiology, and ecological fields, medical-based careers, and advanced study in professional or graduate school.

Biology Research Series:

An authentic research experience is a key part of the Biology program’s mission. All Biology majors participate in a research experience with the guidance of faculty mentors. In either the third or fourth year, students enroll in two consecutive courses (Fall and Spring). Biology Inquiry I ( BIO 392 ) and Biology Inquiry II ( BIO 393 ) are designed to engage students in one of several on-going, cutting edge research projects. Students will work collaboratively to hone skills in experimental design, technical skills in the laboratory and field, and data analysis and interpretation. Additionally, students communicate the results of their research using oral, visual, and written formats to a variety of audiences. Biology students develop a deeper understanding of the scientific process and the confidence and skills to be successful in their future careers paths.

Biology Concentrations:

Students may tailor their curriculum to achieve specific academic goals by declaring a concentration. The Department of Biological Sciences offers three concentrations (see list below) within Biology to allow students to develop a greater depth of knowledge in specific areas to prepare them for specific career paths.

Biotechnology: This concentration is designed for students that are interested in developing a greater understanding of the tools and techniques used in biomedical and health based industries. Courses within this concentration provide students “hands-on” and “real-world” experience with these applications and techniques. Students that are interested in careers in pharmaceuticals, biotech industry, and science/technical writing may want to consider this concentration.

Cell and Molecular Biology : This concentration is designed for students who are interested in developing a greater understanding of the cellular and molecular aspect of biology ranging from microbes to animals. Courses within this concentration provide a student with application-based experiences and knowledge of how genetic information works to create and control cellular actions and the interactions with an organism. Students that are interested in careers in biomedical research, forensics, bioinformatics, or graduate or professional programs in molecular biology may want to consider this concentration.

Ecology and Conservation : This concentration is designed for students who are interested in developing a greater understanding of the distribution and abundance of organisms, the relationships among organisms and the abiotic environment, and applying ecological principles to conserve biological diversity and generate solutions for environmental problems. Courses within this concentration provide interdisciplinary knowledge and hands-on experience in techniques and data analysis necessary to tackle contemporary challenges. Students that are interested in careers in ecological research, environmental consulting and planning, natural resource management and restoration, environmental education, or graduate or professional programs in ecological fields may want to consider this concentration.

Biology, B.S. Learning Outcomes

Degree Requirements

Institutional Degree Requirements

Program-Specific Degree Requirements: To be eligible for graduation, students majoring in Biology must achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in all Biology major course requirements. Students transferring into Biology must complete at least four Biology courses at York College to graduate as a Biology major. Acceptable courses are determined by the major advisor and the Department Chair.

General Education Requirement

First year seminar.

FYS 100 First-Year Seminar 3 credit hours
FYS 102 Common Hour 0 credit hours

Foundations Requirements

Communication course:.

FCO 105 Rhetorical Communication 3 credit hours

Advanced Communication course:

Satisfied by major ( BIO 392 and BIO 393 ) 6 credit hours

Quantitative Fluency course:

Satisfied by major ( MAT 120 or MAT 171 ) 3-4 credit hours

Choose 3 credits of the following American Citizenship courses:

ECO 201 Principles of Economics (Micro) 3 credit hours
HIS 111 American History from Colonization to Civil War 3 credit hours
HIS 112 American History from Civil War to Global Power 3 credit hours
PS 101 American Government and Citizenship 3 credit hours

Choose 3 credits of the following Global Citizenship courses or students have the option to complete this requirement by successfully completing 6 credits of the same foreign language:

ECO 200 Principles of Economics (Macro) 3 credit hours
G 100 World Regional Geography 3 credit hours
HIS 102 The West in the World 3 credit hours
PS 102 Contemporary Global Issues 3 credit hours

Disciplinary Perspectives Requirement

Choose 3 credits of the following humanities courses:.

FLM 216 Introduction to Film 3 credit hours
HIS 101 The Foundation of the West 3 credit hours
LIT 200 Introduction to Literary and Textual Studies 3 credit hours
PHL 221 Introduction to Philosophy 3 credit hours
PHL 238 Race, Gender, and Sexuality 3 credit hours crosslisted as WGS 238 Race, Gender, and Sexuality 3 credit hours

Choose 3 credits of the following Arts courses:

ART 101 Art and Visual Culture 3 credit hours
CRW 272 Introduction to Creative Writing 3 credit hours
MUS 186 Listening to Music 3 credit hours
THE 154 Introduction to Theatre 3 credit hours

Choose 3 credits of the following Social and Behavioral Sciences courses:

ECO 205 Economic Perspectives 3 credit hours
ENT 150 Introduction to Entrepreneurship 3 credit hours
MKT 100 Principles of Marketing 3 credit hours
PS 110 Introduction to Political Science 3 credit hours
PSY 100 General Psychology 3 credit hours
REC 101 Recreation and Leisure in Modern Society 3 credit hours
SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology 3 credit hours

Natural and Physical Sciences course:

Satisfied by major ( BIO 142 ) 4 credit hours

Constellation Requirement

The Constellation requirement is met when a student completes four courses from a minimum of three disciplines within the Constellation requirements. Students who transfer in 60 credits or more at the time of admission to the college will be waived from the Constellation requirement, except for Education majors. The waiver applies to the requirement for graduation but does not waive the credits to graduate; students need to meet the overall bachelor’s degree credit requirement.

Required Courses

Required major courses.

BIO 142 Molecules, Genes and Cells 4 credit hours
BIO 152 Evolution, Ecology and Diversity 4 credit hours
BIO 224 Plant and Animal Physiology 4 credit hours
BIO 220 Human Anatomy & Physiology I 4 credit hours
BIO 221 Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab 0 credit hours
BIO 222 Human Anatomy & Physiology II 4 credit hours
BIO 223 Human Anatomy & Physiology II Lab 0 credit hours
BIO 240 Genetics 4 credit hours
BIO 241 Genetics Lab 0 credit hours
BIO 290 Biostatistics 3 credit hours
BIO 392 Biology Inquiry I: Genes to Ecosystems 3 credit hours
BIO 393 Biology Inquiry 2: Genes to Ecosystems 3 credit hours
CHM 134 General Chemistry I 4 credit hours
CHM 135 General Chemistry I Lab 0 credit hours
CHM 136 General Chemistry II 4 credit hours
CHM 137 General Chemistry II Lab 0 credit hours
CHM 234 Organic Chemistry I 4 credit hours
CHM 235 Organic Chemistry I Lab 0 credit hours
CHM 236 Organic Chemistry II 4 credit hours
CHM 237 Organic Chemistry II Lab 0 credit hours
BIO 350 Biochemistry I 4 credit hours
BIO 351 Biochemistry I Lab 0 credit hours
MAT 120 Applied Calculus 3 credit hours
MAT 171 Calculus I 4 credit hours
PHY 110 General Physics I 4 credit hours
PHY 111 General Physics I Lab 0 credit hours
PHY 112 General Physics II 4 credit hours
PHY 113 General Physics II Lab 0 credit hours
Physical Education and Wellness 2 credit hours

Many graduate programs in biological science and most medical-related post-baccalaureate programs require both Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry. Check the requirements of those institutions and programs.

Biology Electives

If a student is not choosing a concentration, then the student should complete 16 credits from the following:

BIO 300 Terrestrial Ecology 4 credit hours
BIO 304 Botany 4 credit hours
BIO 306 Animal Behavior 4 credit hours
BIO 308 Animal Physiology 4 credit hours
BIO 324 Marine Ecology of the Chesapeake Bay 4 credit hours
BIO 330 Microbiology 4 credit hours
BIO 332 Developmental Biology 4 credit hours
BIO 350 Biochemistry I 4 credit hours AND
BIO 352 Biochemistry II 4 credit hours
BIO 354 Immunology 4 credit hours AND
BIO 355 Immunology Lab 0 credit hours
BIO 358 Cell and Molecular Biology 4 credit hours
BIO 360 Neurobiology 4 credit hours
BIO 364 Virology 4 credit hours
BIO 370 Evolutionary Biology 4 credit hours
BIO 372 Conservation Biology 4 credit hours
BIO 404 Ecological Action 4 credit hours

Biotechnology Concentration

Students must complete 16 credits from the following:

BIO 354 Immunology 4 credit hours
Choose 4 credits from the Biology Electives

Cellular and Molecular Concentration

Ecology and conservation concentration, general elective courses.

Students must complete 16 to 20 credits of free elective courses.

Suggested Course Sequence

Freshman year, fall semester (14-15 credits), spring semester (15 credits).

Foundations - American Citizenship course 3 credit hours
Physical Activity and Wellness 1 credit hour

Sophomore Year

Fall semester (14 credits).

Disciplinary Perspectives course 3 credit hours
Foundations - Global Citizenship course 3 credit hours
Physical Activity and Wellness course 1 credit hour

Spring Semester (14 credits)

Elective course 3 credit hours
Disciplinary Perspectives course 3 credit hours

Junior Year

Fall semester (16-17 credits).

BIO 220 Human Anatomy & Physiology I 4 credit hours OR Constellation course 3 credit hours *
Disciplinary Perspectives course 3 credit hours

* Students who plan to take BIO 224 should take the Constellation course. Students who do not plan to take BIO 224 should take BIO 220 and BIO 221 .

Spring Semester (17 credits)

Constellation course 3 credit hours
Elective course 3 credit hours

Senior Year

Biology elective OR Elective course 4 credit hours
Constellation course 3 credit hours

Spring Semester (14-16 credits)

Constellation course OR Elective course 3 credit hours
Elective courses 3-5 credit hours

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Biology with a 3+4 Track to DMD (BA)

This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2024–Spring 2025 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information .

Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a 3+4 Track to DMD

Unit: College of Arts & Sciences Department: Biology Academic Plan Code(s): BIOLBA_3+4

Program Information

The College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Dentistry have joined together to create a 3+4 accelerated program. This is an accelerated program for those Biology students who want to complete their Bachelor's degree and DMD degree in 7 years instead of the typical 8 years. Undergraduates in the B.A. program would apply to the Dental School to attend in what would normally be their fourth year of undergraduate work and, after their first year at ULSD, they would transfer credits back to A&S and be able to receive the B.A. Students in this program will gain the same skills as a student earning both degrees but will do so faster and be able to join the workforce that much quicker.

Degree Summary

After completion of their first year at ULSD, students will transfer credits back to A&S and can graduate with a BA in Biology.

Departmental Admission Requirements

Admission to the BA in this program is the same as for a BA only. Admission to the BA in Biology requires completion of BIOL 240 , BIOL 241 , BIOL 242 , and BIOL 243 with a grade of C or better; completion of MATH 111 with a grade of C or better OR placement into a mathematics course above the level of MATH 111 on the basis of either the University of Louisville mathematics placement examination or ACT/SAT score; and a minimum overall grade point average of 2.0.

Admission to UofL School of Dentistry (ULSD)

The Committee on Admissions selects students based on academic proficiency in pre-dental studies, performance on the Dental Admissions Test, recommendations, and nonacademic factors assessed in a personal interview. The current qualifications for the joint degree program have been agreed upon by discipline faculty from the University of Louisville College of Arts and Sciences and School of Dentistry. All interested student must apply to the University of Louisville School of Dentistry program and meet the admission criteria.

General Education Requirements

All degrees require the completion of the University-wide General Education Program (link provided above). Some General Education requirements may be met in the requirements for the major or supporting coursework, in which case additional electives may be required to complete the minimum hours for the degree.

College/School Requirements

Program/major requirements, supplemental courses (required for the ba), school of dentistry courses, flight plan.

The University of Louisville is committed to and will provide equality of educational and employment opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, age, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, pregnancy or veteran status.

Every effort has been made to make the catalog accurate as of the date of publication. However, the University of Louisville reserves the right to change programs of study, academic policies, academic requirements, fees, course information, procedures for the confirmation of degrees, or the announced academic calendar and related deadlines without prior notice. Copyright © 2024-2025, University of Louisville. All rights reserved.

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Academic Advising

The BMB Academic Advising Team is committed to the holistic care of each of our majors. We understand that each student's situation is unique, and we are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals while maintaining their health and well-being.

Senior Academic Advisor

Office: Lederle Grad Research Tower (LGRT) 914 Email: @email

Academic Advisor

Office: Lederle Grad Research Tower (LGRT) 916 Email: @email

Valerie and Emmy are your primary advisors and will be overseeing your progression through the BMB major. They are available to provide guidance on course selection and can help you resolve any academic issues that you may encounter.

Ask them about:

Course registration help
Advising holds/registration holds
CHC requirements for Departmental Honors
Senior year in Absentia
Five College coursework/courses taken at other institutions
BMB course overrides
Study abroad/domestic exchange opportunities
Managing academic challenges and/or personal difficulties
Declaring BMB as a Major/Minor
Clearance for Graduation

Office: Lederle Grad Research Tower (LGRT) 918 Email: @email

Dr. Springer is your Chief Undergraduate Advisor and can help with specific advising concerns, including approval of transfer courses, requirements for the major, applications for scholarships, and career or internship planning.

Ask her about:

Questions about prerequisites and degree requirements
Approval of transfer courses and advanced electives
Scholarships/internships/graduate school/independent study
Matching interests and career options

Forms for Undergraduates

Additional forms are available from the Registrar’s Office Forms page, including the Senior Year in Absentia and Prior Approval for Transfer Work forms.

BMB Course Requirements

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Learn more about the majors and career opportunities at UW Oshkosh

Are you a problem solver? Detail oriented? A team player? Perhaps a major in Accounting is for you. Learn more by checking out the Accounting Major Career Fact Sheet .

Do you have interests in understanding cultural differences, have strong interpersonal skills, critical thinking and problem-solving skills and interest in learning about languages? Perhaps a major in Anthropology is for you. Learn more by checking out the Anthropology Major Career Fact Sheet .

Do you have strong analytical, computer, mathematics, scientific or interpersonal skills? Have interest in using laboratory procedures and equipment? Find interest in conducting/participating in research or experiments? Perhaps a degree in biology is for you. Learn more by checking out the Biology Major Career Fact Sheet.

Do you have an interest in helping to improve lives by providing scientific discoveries and optimizing many of the products people use daily? Have an interest in studying in laboratory settings, using equipment and computers to gather and analyze data? Perhaps a major in Chemistry is for you. Learn more by checking out the Chemistry Major Career Fact Sheet .

Communication Studies is the study of how humans exchange information within interpersonal and organizational contexts. Coursework focuses on interpersonal and organizational communication and emphasizes the communicative aspects of human relationships including: mentoring, leadership, socialization, organizational development, social networks, conflict, organizational change, and persuasion.

Do you empathize with others? Are you a good listener inquisitive and love to learn? Can see both sides of an argument? Like to teach and inform others? Want to impact your community? Perhaps a major in Communication is for you. Learn more by checking out the Communication Major Career Fact Sheet .

Do you have strong analytical and problem solving skills? Have a mind for creative, critical-thinking? Able to communicate your ideas or solutions to others? Perhaps a major in Computer Science is for you. Learn more by checking out the Computer Science Major Career Fact Sheet

Criminal Justice focuses on the many aspects of crime and the criminal justice system, including the criminalization of behaviors, law breaking, crime control, and societal reactions to crime.

Do you have strong oral and written communication skills? Have good listening skills? Able to work with a wide range of diverse populations? Perhaps a major in Criminal Justice is for you. Learn more by checking out the Criminal Justice Major Career Fact Sheet

Education focuses on how people learn and ways of effectively teaching. Courses will include topics on educational psychology, developmental needs of students, school health and safety issues, and learning to plan and implement curriculum.

Do you have strong oral and written communication skills? Have planning, organization and record-keeping experience? Able to teach and motivate others? Perhaps a major in Education is for you. Learn more by checking out the Education Major Career Fact Sheet

Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies explores human interaction with the environment. It connects topics from the physical sciences, economics, humanities, and social sciences to address complex contemporary environmental issues.

Are you a critical thinker? An environmentally aware? Interested in social and environmental justice? Perhaps a major in Environmental Studies is for you. Learn more by checking out the Environmental Studies Major Career Fact Sheet.

Do you have highly developed writing, reading, research, and thinking skills? Perhaps a major in History is for you. Learn more by checking out the History Major Career Fact Sheet

Human Services Leadership

Are you a compassionate, empathic person? Have strong interpersonal skills? Perhaps a major in Human Services Leadership is for you. Learn more by checking out the Human Services Leadership Major Career Fact Sheet

Information Systems

Are you an investigative person? A team player? Have skills in managing details? Perhaps a major in Information Systems is for you. Learn more by checking out the Information Systems Major Career Fact Sheet

Are you ambitious, flexible, independent, a leader, reliable, personable and self-motivated? Perhaps a major in Management is for you. Learn more by checking out the Management Major Career Fact Sheet

Are you a problem solver, creative, detail oriented, analytical? Have good communication skills? A team player? Perhaps a major in Marketing is for you. Learn more by checking out the Marketing Major Career Fact Sheet

Do you have critical thinking and communication skills? Have a compassionate nature? Perhaps a major in Nursing is for you. Learn more by checking out the Nursing Major Career Fact Sheet

Psychology is the study of human behavior, the mind, brain, and social interactions. Coursework includes social, cognitive, abnormal, personality, and developmental aspects of individuals as well as training in research methods.

Do you have strong interpersonal and communication skills? Have a compassionate nature? Perhaps a major in Psychology is for you. Learn more by checking out the Psychology Major Career Fact Sheet .

Social Work

Are you an active listener? Have strong social perceptiveness? Interested in making the world around you a better place? Perhaps a major in Social Work is for you. Learn more by checking out the Social Work Major Career Fact Sheet.

Sociology is the study of society and human social behavior through the lens of groups, institutions, religion, family, gender, race, and other identities. Coursework includes research methods, psychology, classes about society, history, and other social science courses.

Do you have skills in critical and analytical thinking, writing, cultural competence and self-awareness? Perhaps a major in Sociology is for you. Learn more by checking out the Sociology Major Career Fact Sheet.

Supply Chain Management

Are you adaptable, strategic, collaborative? Do you have strong leadership skills and work well with others? Perhaps a major in Supply Chain Management is for you. Learn more by checking out the Supply Chain Major Career Fact Sheet

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Biology Major Requirements
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Major in Neuroscience
Major Branches of Biology
introduction of biology and it's major branches

COMMENTS

The Undergraduate Major in Biology
The major begins with a variety of introductory courses related to the different fields of Biology. Students will begin taking these courses, exploratory lab courses, and a selection of additional breadth courses in Chemistry, Math, Physics, and Statistics during their first two years. Advanced elective courses will be taken in the remaining ...
What You Need to Know About Becoming a Biology Major
A biology major studies living organisms' functions and characteristics. You'll take math, science, chemistry and biology courses.
Biology BS
University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA 90095-1361 Main telephone: 310-825-4321 (campus operator) Speech- and hearing-impaired access: TTY 310-825-2833. Few universities in the world offer the extraordinary range and diversity of academic programs that students enjoy at UCLA. Leadership in education, research, and public service ...
Biology Major (BS)
After completing a Biology major, students will be able to: Explain and apply major biological concepts and connect concepts from the biological and physical sciences. Develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and quantitative skills to address biological questions. Be able to pursue a successful career or post-baccalaureate education goals.
B.S. in Biological Sciences
Such courses may not be used for the BIOL 4XX requirement. The following courses are similar in content and only one in each grouping can be used towards major requirements: BIOL 305 and 307; BIOL 430, BTEC 430, and CHEM 437 and 438; BIOL 444 and BTEC 444; or BIOL 495 and BTEC 395. See the Undergraduate Catalog for more information.
Biology
The Biology major is administered jointly by the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Florida offers two Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology: Integrative Biology and Preprofessional Biology. Integrative Biology is designed for ...
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Courses common to all Bachelor of Science in Biology degree Options except for Option IX. Mathematics 408C, 408R, or 408N and 408S. Students who intend to take additional calculus coursework should begin the sequence with 408C or 408N. Statistics and Data Sciences 320E. Chemistry 301 or CH 301H, 302 or CH 302H, and 204.
Biology Majors
Junior transfer students may declare the full major after their second quarter (Winter) - usually 4 upper division biology courses completed (2.0 gpa required) For all students - At the time of petition for full major, you must have a 2.0 or higher grade point average in all courses attempted toward the major within preparatory and within upper ...
Undergraduate Program
We support undergraduate scholarly endeavors, train students for an array of careers, and communicate to them the impact and significance of biology. We offer a broad range of learning opportunities, including traditional classroom experiences, hands-on learning in the field and the laboratory, independent study, and full student engagement in research. As a biology major, your career goals ...
Biology: General Biology, BA < University of Pennsylvania
The General Biology Major allows students to explore the wide range of topics in Biology, while also providing a strong foundation in core subject areas such as cell and molecular biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology and evolution. The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.
BS Biological Sciences
In Arizona State University's Bachelor of Science in biological sciences program, you'll use world-class technology to develop a broad understanding of biology disciplines. Upon graduation, you'll be prepared for further education and a variety of science-focused career paths. You also have the opportunity to earn a concentration in a key ...
UC Davis
The biological science major is the study of functions within every living being, ... You will begin your studies with foundation courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics, followed by depth coursework that spans the many biology disciplines. ... Undergraduate research. Get hands on with your interests. Participate in one of our ...
Undergraduate
The Johns Hopkins Department of Biology offers a rigorous undergraduate program leading to either a BA or a BS degree, as well as a five-year program leading to a combined bachelor's/master's degree. The program guides students as they develop a detailed, nuanced view of biology, integrating knowledge at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels.
BS in Biological Sciences
The BS degree programs are designed for students who desire in-depth training across the spectrum of biological disciplines. Students may either follow a general BS curriculum or choose a track toward their degree by emphasizing course and lab work in: Cell and Molecular Biology. Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Neuroscience. Pre-Health Studies.
Biological Science Major
After successfully completing the Biological Sciences major, students will be able to: Explain the basic structures and fundamental processes of life over a range of levels of organization within the full scope of biology from molecules to ecosystems, integrated with the basic principles of inheritance and evolution. Explain, evaluate, and ...
10 Types of Biology Majors (With Possible Careers)
Related: Top 21 Biology Degree Jobs. 2. Marine biology. Coursework in a marine biology program often focuses on marine ecosystems, including the plants, animals and organisms that live in the ocean. This may be the right major for you if you're interested in studying aquatic plants and wildlife.
Biology
The biology major exposes students to a broad base of biological knowledge, provides depth of experience in advanced topics and develops competence in scientific disciplines that are supportive of the life sciences (mathematics, physics and chemistry). The biology major is a stepping stone from which students may go into research, various ...
Undergraduate Program
The Department of Biology is currently the largest undergraduate major on the UW Seattle campus. The majors below provide training in biology at all levels, from introductory to highly advanced and give students the opportunity to choose a curriculum that best suits their needs. The department primarily focuses on plant and animal physiology ...
Biology Major
About the Major. The Biology Major provides a comprehensive perspective on all aspects of our biological world, including ecology, evolutionary systems, behavior, genetics, microbiology, molecular and cellular biology, immunology, developmental biology, and neurobiology. All students begin their program as Biology majors.
NYU Biology Undergraduate Program
It is rare for science students at any college to be able to study abroad while keeping up with their required coursework. The Department of Biology offers opportunities for Biology majors to study away, including a specially designed spring-semester program at NYU Tel Aviv, where we offer Molecular and Cell Biology II, Organic Chemistry II, and research internships at Tel Aviv University.
Biology, Bachelor of Science
To earn the B.S. in Biology, you complete 120 credits including core, major sequence, and elective requirements. The major sequence and elective requirements are outlined below. For more information about courses, please see the St. John's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences section of our Undergraduate Bulletin.
Biology
The Biology degree is taught by the Department of Biology, with almost all teaching taking place in the University's Science Area. ... Note: These annual fees are for full-time students who begin this undergraduate course here in 2024. Course fee information for courses starting in 2025 will be updated in September.
Biology Degree
The Biology B.S. degree allows the student to choose coursework to be awarded the general Biology B.S. degree or to select a track in one of five areas, which are: Ecology, Evolutionary and Conservation Biology - Marine and Aquatic Biology - Plant Sciences - Pre-Health Professional Biology - Zoology and Pre-Veterinarian Science.
Program: Biology, B.S.
Spring Semester (14-16 credits) Biology elective OR Elective course 4 credit hours. Biology elective OR Elective course 4 credit hours. Constellation course OR Elective course 3 credit hours. Elective courses 3-5 credit hours. This undergraduate catalog provides program and course descriptions for majors and minors as well as other resources to ...
Biology with a 3+4 Track to DMD (BA) < University of Louisville
Admission to the BA in this program is the same as for a BA only.Admission to the BA in Biology requires completion of BIOL 240, BIOL 241, BIOL 242, and BIOL 243 with a grade of C or better; completion of MATH 111 with a grade of C or better OR placement into a mathematics course above the level of MATH 111 on the basis of either the University ...
Biology BS Plant Science
Biology of plants including unique features of plant cells, life histories, metabolism, anatomy, physiology, and ecology. The course empathizes plants' remarkable adaptations to their environments, their diversity, and the vital roles they play in ecological interactions. For biology and environmental science majors and minors. Lab included.
Cognitive Science BS Biology
This course builds on the use of modern compilers. Related topics covered include lexical scanning, parsing, type checking, code generation and translation, optimization, and compile-time and run-time support for modern programming languages. Prerequisites: Admission to major or permission.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Dr. Springer is your Chief Undergraduate Advisor and can help with specific advising concerns, including approval of transfer courses, requirements for the major, applications for scholarships, and career or internship planning. Ask her about: Questions about prerequisites and degree requirements; Approval of transfer courses and advanced electives
Majors, Minors and More
Chemistry. Chemistry is the study of matter and energy in the universe. Coursework includes organic and inorganic chemistry, thermodynamics, math, biology, and physics. Chemistry majors are prepared to work in industrial or government labs, attend graduate school in science, or enter professional schools of pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, or law ...
Biology BS Ecology
Biology of plants including unique features of plant cells, life histories, metabolism, anatomy, physiology, and ecology. The course empathizes plants' remarkable adaptations to their environments, their diversity, and the vital roles they play in ecological interactions. For biology and environmental science majors and minors. Lab included.

The Undergraduate Major in Biology

2023-2024- Checklist of Requirements by Subplan

2022-2023-Checklist of Requirements by Subplan

Older Catalog Degree Requirements

2020-2021 Checklist Requirements

What You Need to Know About Becoming a Biology Major

What Is a Biology Major?

Biology major vs. chemistry major: What’s the difference?

Common Coursework Biology Majors Can Expect

Concentrations

Is Biology a Good Major for Me?

What Can I Do With a Biology Major?

What Biology Majors Say

Schools Offering a Biology Major

College Admissions: Get a Step Ahead!

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General Catalog

Biology Major (BS)

Requirements & Checklist

Fall 2020 BS Degree Requirements

Suggested Course Schedule

Department of Biological Sciences

Course Requirements

Biology Electives (17-21 credits)

Column A electives

Column B electives

Laboratory electives

Chemistry (15 credits)

Physics (8 credits)

Mathematics (4 credits)

Statistics (4 credits) – choose one

MATH/STAT/CMSC elective – choose one

Notes for BIOL B.S.

Legacy B.S. in Biological Sciences (for pre-Fall 2010 students)

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About this Program

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Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science | Integrative Biology

Bachelor of Science | Preprofessional Biology

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Before Graduating Students Must

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Biology: General Biology, BA

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