Biology, BS (BIO.BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Biology offers a rigorous and dynamic curriculum to build a comprehensive understanding of the biological sciences. Rooted in principles of excellence, ethical responsibility, and global stewardship, the program integrates interdisciplinary coursework with hands-on laboratory experiences, fieldwork, and research opportunities. This approach equips students with critical thinking, scientific literacy, and communication skills essential to thriving in graduate studies, healthcare, scientific research, or educational roles.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program students will be able to:

Develop critical scientific thinking and problem-solving skills to enable learners to address the unique issues of tomorrow. (3,5)
Communicate scientific concepts effectively across various audiences, from peers to the public via a variety of avenues, including written work and oral explanation. (2)
Prepare graduates for advanced studies or immediate employment in a science-related field. (2,3,5)
Engage in research by constructing, performing, and interpreting experiments, defending results, and communicating findings in both oral and written formats. (2,6)

Recommended Program Pathway

NOTE: Courses with an asterik (*) indicates the course is a program requirement.

First Semester: 14 credits

BIO 181 - General Biology I (Majors) with Lab Credits: 4 *
CHM 151 - General Chemistry I with Lab Credits: 4 *
PHI 101 - Introduction to Philosophy Credits: 3
ENG 101 - English Composition I Credits: 3 *
Notes:
- Build an academic plan and become familiar with degree requirements in the catalog.
- Confirm financial aid, billing status, and important deadlines.
- Learn about academic supports such as tutoring, coaching, library resources, and learning communities.

Second Semester: 14 credits

BIO 182 - General Biology II (Majors) with Lab Credits: 4 *
CHM 152 - General Chemistry II with Lab Credits: 4 *
MAT 181 - Plane Trigonometry Credits: 3 *
ENG 102 - English Composition II Credits: 3 *
Notes:
- Review course progress and general education completion.
- Use academic success tools such as study skills workshops or early-alert resources.

Third Semester: 16 credits

MAT 211 - Introductory Statistics Credits: 3 *
CHM 235 - General Organic Chemistry I with Lab Credits: 4 *
BIO 200 - Biological Inquiry: Research Methods and Ethics Credits: 3 *
PSY 101 - Introduction to Psychology Credits: 3
SOC 131 - Introduction to Sociology Credits: 3
Notes:
- Check degree progress and adjust the academic plan if needed.
- Maintain awareness of program-specific deadlines, applications, and scholarships.

Fourth Semester: 14 credits

CHM 236 - General Organic Chemistry II with Lab Credits: 4 *
BIO 160 - Anatomy and Physiology of Human Structure and Function Credits: 4
HUM 150 - Humanities I - Gods, Myths, and Empires Credits: 3
HIS 131 - History of the United States I Credits: 3
Notes:
- Confirm lower-division coursework is on track for completion.
- Explore undergraduate research, service learning, or fieldwork options.

Fifth Semester: 16 credits

MAT 221 - Calculus with Analytic Geometry I Credits: 4
BIO 205 - Microbiology with Lab Credits: 4
BIO 301 - Ecological Field Methods Credits: 4
BIO 307 - Genetics Credits: 4
Notes:
- Seek leadership, research, or applied learning opportunities in the field of study.
- Update resumes and begin outlining post-graduation goals.
- Review financial aid status and future funding needs

Sixth Semester: 17 credits

PHY 111 - General Physics I with Lab Credits: 4 *
or
PHY 115 - University Physics I with Lab Credits: 5 *
BIO 308 - Cell Biology with Lab Credits: 4
BIO 309 - Ecology Credits: 4
BIO 310 - Evolution Biology Credits: 4
Notes:
- IF taking PHY 111 and PHY 112, will need to take an additional AGEC course to meet the program total of 120 credits
- Refine application materials such as resumes, personal statements, or portfolios.
- Learn about capstone, thesis, or senior project expectations.

Seventh Semester: 17 credits

PHY 112 - General Physics II with Lab Credits: 4 *
or
PHY 116 - University Physics II with Lab Credits: 5 *
BIO 302 - Marine Biology Credits: 4
BIO 305 - Botany Credits: 4
BIO 306 - Zoology Credits: 4
Notes:
- IF taking PHY 111 and PHY 112, will need to take an additional AGEC course to meet the program total of 120 credits
- Complete a final degree progress review to ensure all requirements are scheduled.
- Prepare application materials for employment, graduate school, or professional programs.
- Track graduation-related deadlines and financial obligations.

Eighth Semester: 12 credits

BIO 400 - Molecular Biology Credits: 3
BIO 401 - Advanced Pathophysiology Credits: 3
BIO 402 - Immunology Credits: 3
BIO 415 - Biological Sciences Capstone Credits: 3
Notes:
- Submit the graduation application and verify completion requirements.
- Finish all capstone or senior project components.