BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY

The biology major is designed to help students gain a comprehensive understanding of the biological sciences. The biology faculty believe it is vital for undergraduate students to understand the unifying concepts and fundamental principles within the breadth of biology. Thus, the core biology curriculum introduces the diverse areas of biology. All students are required to complete an emphasis. Each of the five emphases provides breadth and depth in biology, while allowing students flexibility to specialize in areas of particular interest. In consultation with their biology advisor, students can tailor programs to meet their unique interests, educational goals, and career needs. A biology degree can support students intending to pursue graduate or professional degrees in the life sciences, including veterinary and human medicine, as well as careers in highly diverse fields, such as conservation biology, genetic counseling, plant biology, population genetics, aquatic sciences, wildlife ecology, animal behavior, evolutionary biology, microbiology, and sustainable agriculture.

The biology major requires fulfillment of general university degree requirements, biology core requirements (including chemistry, physics, cell and molecular biology, and math/statistics requirements), and biology elective requirements outlined as follows for each emphasis. All majors must complete at least 41 credits in biology.