Majors and Minors

Through its undergraduate programs, the department helps students understand how microbes, genes and cells shape health, disease and the environment. Coursework and laboratory training prepare graduates for careers in research, biotechnology, healthcare and other life science fields, as well as graduate and professional study.

Majors

Molecular and Medical Microbiology

Explore how plants, animals and microbes adapt to the environment and to each other and learn to predict whether populations of interacting organisms will persist over time or become extinct. You will learn about the diversity of life on Earth, including diversity in genes, physiology, shapes, sizes and behaviors. You will learn about how this diversity emerged, as plants, animals, and microbes become adapted to the environment and understand fundamental concepts that unify the biological sciences and form the foundation for efforts in the conservation and protection of the earth’s biodiversity.

Major Requirements - B.S.

Major Requirements - B.A.

Sample 4-Year Plan

B.S.

B.A.

Minors

Biological Sciences

This minor provides an opportunity for students in programs outside of the College of Biological Sciences to complement their studies with a concentration in biology. Students will experience the breadth of biology by taking courses in five core areas: molecular biology/ biochemistry, animal biology, plant biology, microbiology and ecology/evolution.

Minor Requirements

Course Material and Service Fees

Deciding between a B.S. and a B.A.?

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree typically emphasizes a deeper focus on science and math, with more specialized coursework in technical or research areas. In contrast, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree allows for greater flexibility, often incorporating a broader range of liberal arts courses, making it ideal for students who want to combine scientific study with other disciplines or pursue diverse career paths. Both degrees provide valuable foundations but cater to different academic and professional goals.

Majors and Course Policies

PTA (Permission to Add):
No course will be enrolled above the enrollment cap as determined by the department and registrar. All large enrollment courses with a waiting list will be enrolled as the seats open within the 10-day drop window and before the last day to add on the 12th day of instruction. Do not contact your instructor for a PTA. It is department policy NOT to give out PTAs for courses with a wait list or to add after the 12th day of instruction.
Drop deadlines:
Upper division courses will have a 10-day drop deadline. We encourage students to evaluate course sections based on their schedule, graduation plans (Please consult with your BASC advisor).
PTD (Permission to Drop)
Students should review the relevant policies and guidelines and work with their advisors in BASC to submit a PTD through OASIS.

Full PTA Policies