Biological Sciences Major

Core sequence

• BIO 102 - Explorations in Biology I: Life in Context (4 Cr.)
• BIO 101 - Explorations in Biology II: The Research Process (4 Cr.)
• BIO 220 - Principles of Genetics (4 Cr.)
• BIO 224 - Techniques in Genetics and Molecular Biology (1 Cr.)
• BIO 240 - Ecology and Evolution (4 Cr.)

• ​Select from one of the following:

  • BIO 254 Microbiology ( 4 Cr.)   
  • BIO 278 Developmental Biology ( 4 Cr.)
       

   

Advanced Coursework

Two courses (eight credits) with advanced labs are required with at least one course selected from each of Group I and Group II:

• Group I:

  • ​BIO 324 Molecular Biology ( 4 Cr.)  
  • BIO 327 Advanced Genetics ( 4 Cr.)  
  • BIO 336 Cellular Biology ( 4 Cr.)   

• Group II:

  • ​BIO 345 Advanced Ecology ( 4 Cr.)  
  • BIO 338 Integrative Animal Behavior ( 4 Cr.)  
  • BIO 360 Principles of Physiology ( 4 Cr.)  
• BIO 497 - Capstone in Biological Sciences (2 Cr.)

• OR

• BIO 490 - Independent Research in Biological Sciences (2 Cr.)

Additional Credits

• 4 additional credits chosen from any 200, 300, or 400 level biology class or CHE 341 beyond courses already taken. Up to 2 credits of BIO 291 or BIO 490 can be counted towards elective credits.

Required supporting coursework: CHE 230 and MA 268 or MA 172 or DMC 106 or Advanced Placement Calculus (AB or BC) exam score of 4 or 5. (CHE 111 and CHE 151 are pre-requisites for CHE 230.)

BIO 206, 208, 238, 279 cannot be used for the biological sciences major.

Note:

To count any course toward the major, students must receive a grade of at least a “C-“. Laboratory proficiency and writing proficiency in the major are required. Laboratory reports and papers in BIO 224  and BIO 240  are used to evaluate writing proficiency in the major. Laboratory proficiency is determined in BIO 224 .

Concentration in Dance Science

This concentration focuses on knowledge and technique in the new field of dance science. Study of the sciences is combined with technical and theoretical dance training to provide a basis for understanding problems in dance performance, nutrition, and care and prevention of injuries. With additional course work, this concentration provides preparation for graduate studies in physical therapy, sports medicine, dance medicine, and related fields. (See the director of premedical studies for specific requirements.) In addition to fulfilling all requirements for a major in the biological sciences, requirements for a concentration in dance science are:

• DAN 221 - Ballet Technique II (2 Cr.) OR DAN 215 - Modern Dance II (1.5 - 2.0 Cr.)  
• DAN 260 - Composition and Improvisation (4 Cr.)
• DAN 263 - Anatomy & Kinesiology for Dance (4 Cr.)
• PHY 115 - Principles of Physics I (4 Cr.)
• An internship or research in dance science

Concentration in Secondary Education with Certification in Biological Sciences

Students planning to teach biology in secondary schools must major in biology and complete the required education courses. See the teaching certification requirements under Secondary Education Certification, Grades 7-12 .

Honors in the Major

Honors are decided by a vote of the biology program faculty just prior to Commencement. Students considered for Honors should achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or higher in all 200-, 300-, and 400-level courses that count toward the major. Students must complete a year-long, or summer plus semester-long, independent research project (BIO 490 ) with a grade of A- or better.