Biological Sciences
B.A., B.S. Degrees
Biological sciences is an appropriate major for students interested in the science of life. A baccalaureate degree in biology is a foundation for careers in health, environment, science education and research, and supports advanced study in graduate and professional degree programs. Majors in biological sciences may pursue either a B.A. or a B.S. degree.
The B.A. degree is an interdisciplinary degree that invites students to combine coursework in biology with other subjects of interest in the social sciences or humanities and integrate these fields into a capstone experience. Students in the B.A. program may adopt an optional concentration in environmental change. The B.S. degree, in contrast, contains more coursework in biology and other natural sciences and is an excellent choice for students who plan a science-based career. Students in the B.S. program may adopt an optional concentration in one of four sub-disciplines: cell and molecular biology, physiology, biomedical science, or ecology and evolutionary biology.
Both the B.A. program (with and without concentration) and the B.S. program (without concentration) may be completed either in person or online.
Students majoring in biological sciences must complete a capstone project during their junior or senior year. The goal of the capstone experience is to apply the skills and information gained in coursework to an original project. B.A. students will complete an interdisciplinary project within BIOL F410, Integrative Capstone in Biological Sciences; this project will commonly integrate the major and minor subject areas of study. B.S. students will complete a research project within one of several designated courses or by working individually with a faculty mentor. B.S. students will signal their intent to complete the capstone requirement by registering for BIOL F400 , Research Capstone in Biological Sciences. Biology course credit for mentored research is available as an individual study, BIOL F497. More information about the capstone requirement is posted on the Biology and Wildlife Department website. Students in the B.S. program are strongly encouraged to speak to a biology advisor well before their senior year about how they plan to satisfy the capstone requirement.
All biological sciences majors are required to take a standardized examination in the senior year for programmatic assessment purposes. The score on the exam does not affect graduation and is free to the student. The exam is taken during the required BIOL F481 course.
Minimum Requirements for Biological Sciences Bachelor's Degrees: 120 credits
Learn more about the bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, including an overview of the program, career opportunities and more.
College of Natural Science and Mathematics
Department of Biology and Wildlife
907-474-7671
