The B.A. degree is designed to offer students a broad background in the biological sciences permitting more free electives than the B.S. program. Biology electives allow students to pursue a variety of specific interests that may lead to positions in government, industry, environmental fields, teaching, and health care professions. The B.A. degree may be combined with education courses for certification for teaching in the public schools.
Prospective biology majors should begin the chemistry sequence in the freshman year.
Students considering careers in medicine must consult with faculty concerning required electives.
Requirements for the B.A. Major
Required credits: 48
Thirty-four credits in biology courses, including:
- BIO 122 Biological Science
- BIO 122 Biological Science
- BIO 123 Biological Science
- BIO 260 Ecology
- BIO 336 Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIO 352 Cell Biology
- BIO 372, 373 Genetics
One of the following:
- BIO 337, 338 Immunology
- BIO 440W Medical Microbiology
- BIO 442 Microbiology
- BIO 444, 445 Biochemistry
In addition:
- Upper-division biology courses.
- Related sciences requirements: at least 8 credits of chemistry (CH 114, 136)
- At least 3 credits of mathematics, preferably M 110 Precalculus, and an additional 3 credits of either M 114 Everyday Statistics, CS 110 Introduction to Computers, or CS 114 Computer Programming I
- A foreign language and computer science through the intermediate level are strongly recommended.
All courses required for the major must be taken for a letter grade, and may not be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. Biology and chemistry courses must be completed with a grade-point average of at least 2.2.
Learnings Outcomes for the BA in Biology
1) Students will be able to describe and apply basic biological information and concepts.
2) Students will be able to conduct original biological research and report results orally and in writing to scientific audiences.
3) Students will be able to demonstrate higher order conceptual understanding of biology, critical thinking and analytical/problem solving skills.
4) Students will demonstrate an understanding of biology laboratory techniques and instrumentation that is standard in the discipline.
5) Students will apply ethical principles of the discipline in regard to human and animal subjects, environmental protection, use of sources, and collaboration with colleagues.
