Bachelor of Science in Biology

The curriculum offered by the Department of Biology and Environmental Science is designed to develop within the student an understanding of the process of scientific inquiry as well as an appreciation of the underlying unity and overriding diversity of life. The program further aims to establish an understanding and appreciation of the relationships that operate within the biosphere, especially those involving humankind.

In order to serve the needs of students with differing career interests, two degree options are offered: (1) the Bachelor of Science in Biology major is intended for the traditional Biology major including those preparing for medical, dental, veterinary, pharmacy, or graduate schools, (2) the Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Environmental Science major is intended for the student whose career goals differ from those of the traditional Biology major yet who wants some expertise in the Biological and Environmental issues. Career possibilities for this major include the following: natural history, various areas of environmental science, education, law, various technical occupations, Biological illustration, and scientific journalism. A Bachelor of Science major in Environmental Science is also awarded by the Department. In addition to the standard degree options, a co-operative (3/2) forestry program, and pre-medical, pre-dental, and pre-veterinary medicine options are available.

Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Biology

The requirements for a B.S. major in Biology consist of 39 semester hours of academic work including:

• Biology 101 - Principles of Biology I
• Biology 102 - Principles of Biology II
• Biology 205 - Genetics
• Biology 297 - Biology Forum
• Biology 302 - Cell and Molecular Biology
• Biology 305 - Evolution
• Biology 335 - Current Topics in Biology
• Biology 397 - Senior Seminar

In addition, 16 semester hours chosen from any Biology 200 level or 300 level courses are required.  The two semester sequence of Biology 107 - Human Anatomy and Biology 108 - Human Physiology can also be used to fulfil one four semester hour Biology elective.

Additional Requirements:

• Chemistry 120 - Fundamentals of Chemistry I
• Chemistry 121 - Chemical Laboratory Principles I
• Chemistry 122 - Fundamentals of Chemistry II
• Chemistry 123 - Chemical Laboratory Principles II
• Chemistry 205- Organic Chemistry I
• Chemistry 206- Organic Techniques II
• Chemistry 207- Organic Chemistry II
• Chemistry 208- Organic Techniques II
• Mathematics 195 - Precalculus
• Mathematics 196- Calculus
• Physics 251- Physics I
• Physics 252- Physics II

Minor in Biology The requirements for a minor in Biology consists of 17 semester hours including:

• Biology 101 - Principles of Biology I
• Biology 102 - Principles of Biology II
• Biology 297 - Biology Forum

In addition, 8 semester hours chosen from additional 200 level or 300 level Biology courses.