Through a sequence of core courses, the biology major provides students with a comprehensive study of the various sub-disciplines of biology including cell and molecular biology, genetics, organismal biology and ecology. After completing the biology core requirements, students are able to select from a wide variety of science electives to prepare for any profession in the biological sciences. Thus, the major is a flexible program designed to tailor fit to the career goals of each biology student. Opportunities for research, independent study and practical internships further strengthen each student’s degree and resume. The degree is granted upon completion of 125 credits as specified in the catalog (40 credits must be in 3000- or 4000-level courses).
Natural World courses in core curriculum: MAT2025 or higher and PHY1101/1101L or higher.
Biology majors and minors must receive a “C-” or better in all prerequisite courses. In addition, biology majors and minors must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 in all courses with BIO, CHE, and PHY prefixes in order to graduate.
Biology Core
29 cr
BIO1011
Principles of Biology I
4
BIO1012
Principles of Biology II
4
BIO2113
Principles of Biology III
4
BIO3246
Genetics
5
BIO3835
Career Competencies Seminar
1
BIO4835
Senior Seminar [WCE, OCE]
2
CHE1021
Principles of Chemistry I
4
CHE2101
Organic Chemistry I & Lab
5
Biology Electives
23 cr
Selected from courses with BIO prefixes (excludes BIO1009) and no more than four courses with CHE (excludes CHE1006), PHY, and MAT2055 or higher (excluding MAT2121).
Note: WCE=Written Communication Emphasis; OCE=Oral Communication Emphasis. See the catalog for explanation and prerequisites.
Students Speak
“I have enjoyed the opportunity to work on exciting, cutting edge research projects with the biology faculty. My favorite classes have been Human Physiology and Biochemistry because the classes were taught at a very high academic level. I felt that I learned a great deal in just these two science classes alone.”
– Tim, Stillwater, Minnesota
3003 SneLling Avenue North | ST. Paul, Mn | 55113-1598 | 651-631-5100 or 800-692-4020
