BA and BS in Biological Sciences
The Biological Sciences BS and BA degree programs are built around a set of core courses
that provide a foundation of biological knowledge. The required courses are designed
to be a springboard for the development of a personalized study plan allowing you
to pursue your own interests and professional goals through your choice of electives.
Both programs can be completed in person or online.
BS Degree
The BS degree in Biological Sciences is a great choice for students who plan a career in science, including those headed for a graduate degree in biology. The curriculum provides a comprehensive background in the natural and biological sciences and offers the option to concentrate on Cell and Molecular Biology, Physiology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, or Biomedical Science. Concentrations appear on the transcript. The Biomedical Science concentration was designed to cover the prerequisites of most medical schools and the topics covered by the MCAT. All BS students do a capstone research project, either in a designated course that incorporates a research project or by working individually with a faculty mentor.
BA Degree
The BA degree provides an opportunity to combine biology with exploration of the arts, humanities, and social sciences. It is a good choice for students interested in science teaching, science writing, science-based art, science policy, or other pursuits that integrate biology with the human experience. Students complete a minor in addition to the biological sciences major, and take additional courses in humanities and social sciences. Starting with catalog year 2022-23, students in the BA complete an integrative capstone course, BIOL F410, that encourages interdisciplinary work across the major and minor subjects. Students in earlier catalog years can petition to complete the capstone in this manner. Students in the BA program can complete an optional concentration in Environmental Change, which includes taking the interdisciplinary Environmental Change minor.
