A major in Biology teaches students how to investigate and appreciate the unity of function that underlies the diversity of life forms. Lectures encourage students to synthesize the best of classical and contemporary ideas in Biology. Laboratory work gives students technical expertise, and helps them to observe, ask questions, test hypotheses, analyze results, and present their conclusions orally and in writing. The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree is designed to provide a foundational core in biological concepts while also providing flexibility for students to pursue courses in interdisciplinary fields like environmental science, psychology, health sciences, and education. The B.A. in Biology provides a wide breadth of electives in disciplines related to the biological sciences that draw connections to the natural world. With its flexibility, the major prepares students for a variety of careers in industry, education, and others and enables double majors in several fields. Students may participate in seminars, independent study, internships and summer research.
- BIO 360: Ecology and several upper level biology courses are offered on an every-other-year schedule.
- The B.A. in Biology is NOT intended for students interested in pursuing medical school, dental, and veterinary school. These students should consider a B.S. in Biology as the requirements for these health profession programs and their entrance exams align more closely with course work in our B.S. Biology track. (See B.S. in Biology above.)
Required Courses (9 Courses)
Required Organismal Biology Course (Choose 1 Course)
Elective Courses (6 Courses)
Biology Electives (Choose 2 Courses)
Interdisciplinary Electives (Choose 4 Courses)
Up to one course in each of the following categories:
For EDU majors, up to two of the following:
A maximum of two independent study (i.e., BIO 490 and 491) courses may be taken. Additional independent study credits will count toward degree requirements but will not count toward the major in Biology.