Please note that students who major in biology may have a cellular/molecular focus OR an environmental focus. Many biology majors also pursue graduate or professional programs (medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, etc.) For this reason, there are 10 Things to Consider instead of the standard 5.
Additional information on pre-professional programs.
The top 5 things to consider when planning a major in biology
- Biology Majors should take General Chemistry I & II in the first year (fall, spring). Students who place below MATH 1012 should take Mastering Math over the summer as a prerequisite for General Chemistry I.
- Students should complete their math requirement as soon as possible.
- If possible, take Biological Communications II (Biol 3701) in junior year.
- Students planning for a professional program should indicate this when they declare a major, as it strongly affects course planning.
- We recommend you meet with a biologist to plan your program, even if they are not the official adviser. While Biochemistry, Genetics, and Microbiology are offered every year, most electives are offered alternate years. Faculty leaves and/or sabbaticals may change class offerings, so discuss your plans with a biology faculty.