Considering an Undergraduate Major in Biology?
If you are interested in learning more about the workings of life in all its varied forms and contemporary issues in life and environmental sciences, this may be the optimal major. You will have the opportunity to explore the various areas of current biology in an integrated yet diverse program that builds from a solid foundation of the basic elements of molecular and cellular biology, genetics, evolution, organ systems, and population studies. Students are exposed to modern concepts, state-of-the art approaches, and current methods of experimentation in molecular biology, biochemistry, genomics, and bioinformatics within introductory courses taken at the very outset of their studies.
A variety of intermediate courses then provides in-depth exploration of the major areas of biology, including molecular genetics, field biology, and genomics and bioinformatics. Advanced students may register for graduate-level courses, which are most often given in the specialized areas of faculty research. Many options are available to create individualized programs of study.
Career Options for Biology Majors:
Students with degrees in biology enter health, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, ecological, environmental, agricultural, regulatory and legislative fields in a diverse array of fulfilling career tracks. Many students in undergraduate biology degrees continue their education in professional and graduate schools, particularly medical, dental and graduate schools.
Requirements for a Biology Major:
Biology majors are required to complete seven courses total in order to fulfill the degree requirements: Principles of Biology I and II, Molecular and Cellular Biology I and II, and five other 4-point upper level courses in biology, chemistry, physics and math. Examples of some courses are included below.
