Majors & Minors

Biology

Biology is the scientific study of living things. Therefore the major and minor in biology are designed to introduce students to the methodology of science while providing a broad exposure to the diversity of life at all levels. Students may also, through their choice of upper-level classes, explore specific areas of interest, such as cell and molecular biology, organismal biology, or ecology and evolutionary biology. In addition to its standard course offerings, the department offers numerous opportunities for collaborative research and learning with faculty. For example, internships and other research opportunities, both on and off-campus, are available during the January Winter Term and in the summer. Many students also spend a semester away from campus, either in an off-campus study program, such as the School for Field Studies, Denmark International Study, the School for International Training, or as an intern at such institutions as Oak Ridge or Argonne National Laboratories, Harvard Medical School, or the Mayo Clinic.

Requirements for a major

Biology

Total courses required	Ten and one-half (including CHEM 120)
Core courses	BIO 135, BIO 145, BIO 215, BIO 450.
Other required courses	CHEM 120, required as a prerequisite for BIO 215. The remaining six Biology courses can be selected from any of the approved courses for the major, with a minimum of three courses at the 300 or 400 level.
Number 300 and 400 level courses	Three
Senior requirement and capstone experience	The senior requirement consists of the completion of BIO 450 with a grade of C- or better.
Additional information	No more than two courses from off-campus programs can count toward the major. It is recommended that biology majors take a minimum of two courses in chemistry, a year of physics and a semester of calculus or statistics. Course work in computer science is also desirable.

Requirements for a minor

Biology

Total courses required	Seven
Core courses	BIO 135, BIO 145, BIO 215
Other required courses	CHEM 120, required as a prerequisite for BIO 215. The remaining three Biology courses must be at the 200 level or above with a minimum of one course at the 300 or 400 level.
Number 300 and 400 level courses	One