Biology Major, BA

This B.A. program prepares students for further education in graduate programs or a career that may involve significant background in the biological sciences (e.g., working as a laboratory technician in medical, university, or government settings, as well as science journalism and certain legal areas such environmental and patent law).  The degree does not require the extensive scientific coursework of the BS degree and students can take more liberal arts courses and easily double major or get one or more minors. To convert to a B.S. degree, only 2-3 additional science courses would be required. Students must pass a comprehensive examination, the Major Field Test in Biology, given as part of BIO 490 Introduction to Research in the Biological Sciences that assesses the ability to integrate and synthesize basic concepts in biology. To take the required exam, students must also register for BIO 493.

Major Completion Summary

University Core Requirements (44-55 Credits)

See complete University Core requirements.

Includes as foundational courses the following major-required courses:

Major Requirements (35 Credits)

²

Major-required Chemistry courses may be taken for University Core or Open Elective credit in consultation with academic advisor.

Open Electives (16-41 Credits)

¹

Includes major-required Chemistry courses not taken for core credit.

In addition to the courses listed below, students are required to complete two courses with the Anti-Racism Education attribute attached. These cour​ses may be taken during any semester of their education. See advisor for more information.