Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biology BS, General Biology Specialization


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For those students who do not desire a specialization, the BS Biology major offers undergraduate students a broad degree program with depth of training in a variety of areas in biological sciences and supporting fields. This program offers considerable flexibility in program coursework and prepares students for immediate entrance into careers in biological sciences or for graduate work.

Students consult with the appropriate biology faculty advisor for approval of their BS program and electives, which must be submitted for approval to the biological sciences department at least two quarters preceding graduation. All students in the BS Biology major must complete all BS core requirements, plus additional specific requirements. Additionally, students will need to choose a specified number of courses from different groupings of upper division courses. A maximum of 15 credits in BIOL 295, BIOL 490, BIOL 495, and BIOL 496 may be included in the major. General education biology courses and biology courses designed for majors outside of the department may not be used to fulfill Biology BS, Biology BA, or minor requirements. Please read course descriptions for details. Courses used as electives are approved by department advisement.

Biology Graduation Requirements


  • Students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.25 in their major to graduate.
  • Application for the bachelor’s degree must be filed by the second Friday of the quarter preceding the quarter in which the degree is to be received. Complete instructions and deadlines are available in the Office of the Registrar.

Biology Program Learner Outcomes


Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate broad and detailed knowledge of biology concepts, processes, and principles.  
  • Develop scientific and technical skills to investigate the natural world.  
  • Use critical thinking to solve biological problems.  
  • Develop mindsets of curiosity, reliance on evidence, integrity, equity, and professionalism.  
  • Effectively communicate biology across varied audiences.  

Select from the following for 17-31 credits.


  • 1 course from the Biological Diversity Group Credits: (4-5)
  • 1 course from the Ecology Group Credits: (3-5)*
  • 1 course from the Evolution Group Credits: (4-6)*
  • 1 course from the Molecular/Cell Group Credits: (3-5)*
  • 1 course from the Structure/Function Group Credits: (3-10)
    (*NOTE: Courses can only be counted once.)

Department-Approved Electives Credits: 19-33


Total Credits: 100


Biological Diversity Group


Evolution Group


Molecular and Cell Group


College and Department Information


Biological Sciences Department  
College of the Sciences  

Program Codes
Major plan codes: BIOLBS, BIOLBSP
Specialization plan code: GEBI

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