Biology, BS

Bioogy Department

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Program Overview

Biology, BS

The B.S. in Biology (120 credits) is a rigorous science degree designed for students seeking careers in research, government, or education. It provides the essential science foundation needed for professional schools like medical, dental, and optometry, offering tracks like Pre-Med and General Biology.

Credits Required
At least 120 credits
GPA Required
2.0 or higher
Degree Designation
Bachelor of Science

Major

Description

The B.S. in Biology provides a comprehensive foundation in the biological sciences, emphasizing the essential companion disciplines of Chemistry, Math, and Physics. You’ll move from General Biology (BIO 201/202) to advanced topics like Genetics (BIO 302), Molecular Biology (BIO 461), and Cell Biology (BIO 491).
The program offers two distinct tracks:

  1. Option A: Pre-Med/Professional School: This rigorous track includes full sequences in Organic Chemistry, Calculus (MTH 202/203), and two semesters of Physics, giving you the necessary prerequisites for competitive health professional admissions.
  2. Option B: General Biology: This track offers flexibility for students focused on general scientific careers, education, or specific areas of biological research.

Both options ensure you graduate with strong analytical skills and laboratory competence, culminating in a Senior Seminar (BIO 499).

Prgram and Major

Requirements

General Education Requirements (Common Core & College Option)

  • Required Core (12 Credits): ENGL 112, ENGL 150 (English Comp.), MTH 115 or higher (Math), and BIO 101 or PHS 101 (Science).
  • Flexible Core (18 Credits): One course in each of the five areas (World Cultures, U.S. Experience, Creative Expressions, Individual & Society, Scientific World) plus one additional Flexible Core course.
  • College Option (9 Credits): One course each from the Socio-Cultural & Diversity Cluster, Humanities, Social & Behavioral Sciences, and Natural Sciences & Mathematics.

Core Biology & Supporting Sciences (25 Credits)

Students in both Option A and B must complete:

  • BIO 102 – Pre Prof Seminar
  • BIO 201/BIOL 201 – General Biology I + Lab
  • BIO 202/BIOL 202 – General Biology II + Lab
  • BIO 302/BIOL 302 – Genetics + Lab
  • BIO 461/BIOL 461 – Molecular Biology + Lab
  • BIO 491 – Cell Biology
  • BIO 499 – Senior Seminar
  • CHM 201/CHML 201 – General Chemistry I + Lab
  • CHM 202/CHML 202 – General Chemistry II + Lab
  • MTH 151 – Precalculus

Concentration Tracks (earn at least 42 credits)

  • Pre Med:
    • CHM 304/CHML 304 (Organic Chemistry II + Lab), CHM 303/CHML 303 (Organic Chemistry I + Lab), MTH 202 – Calculus I, MTH 203 – Calculus II
      PHY 205/PHYL 205 (Introduction to Physics I + Lab), PHY 206/PHYL 206(Introduction to Physics II + Lab)
    • Earn at least 15 Biology credits
    • Earn at least 3 Open elective credits
  • General Biology:
    • MTH 202 – Calculus I, PHY 205 – Introduction to Physics I
    • Earn at least 30 Biology elective credits
    • Earn at least 4 Open elective credits

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Define and appropriately use biological terminology.
  2. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of core biological principles and the ability to apply this knowledge to scientific research and real-world problems.
  3. Apply advanced quantitative reasoning and statistical analysis to interpret and analyze biological data.
  4. Demonstrate strong information literacy, critical thinking, and research skills necessary for academic success, career development, and professional advancement.
  5. Integrate biological knowledge with information from related disciplines such as chemistry, physics, and environmental science to address complex and interdisciplinary challenges across scientific fields.
  6. Evaluate ethical issues in scientific practice and research by understanding and articulating the role of biology in promoting social justice, reducing health disparities, and addressing global health and environmental challenges.
  7. Demonstrate effective leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.

Degree Map

To help you stay on track and graduate on time, Medgar Evers College has developed four-year degree maps for all its majors. These guides are designed to help you plan your studies efficiently and make the most of your academic journey.

View Degree Map – Option A (Pre Med/Graduate School)

View Degree Map – Option B (General Biology)