Biology, BS
Biology Department
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.
HEGIS Code: 0401.00
NYSED Program Code: 02290 – BIO-BS
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:
- 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.
- 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).
Student
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
-
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of core biological principles -
Apply quantitative reasoning to interpret biological data. -
Demonstrate scientific literacy, critical thinking, and research skills necessary for academic success and career development. -
Utilize biological knowledge to conduct scientific research and address interdisciplinary challenges. -
Identify ethical issues in scientific practice and their impact on society. -
Demonstrate effective communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Major
Requirements
As part of your degree, you must fulfill the CUNY Pathways general education requirements, which consist of the Common Core (Required and Flexible) and the Medgar Evers College Option. These courses provide the essential quantitative, scientific, and socio-cultural literacy that complements your technical training.
Required Core Courses
- Biology and Chemistry:
- BIO 102, BIO 201/BIOL 201, BIO 202/BIOL 202, BIO 302/BIOL 302, BIO 461/BIOL 461, BIO 491, BIO 499, CHM 201/CHML 201, CHM 202/CHML 202, MTH 151
Concentration Tracks (earn at least 42 credits)
- Pre Med:
- CHM 304/CHML 304, CHM 303/CHML 303, MTH 202, MTH 203, PHY 205/PHYL 205, PHY 206/PHYL 206
- Earn at least 15 Biology credits
- Earn at least 3 Open elective credits
- General Biology:
- MTH 202, PHY 205
- Earn at least 30 Biology elective credits
- Earn at least 4 Open elective credits
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.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you have questions regarding the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences or need assistance navigating the application process, please reach out to our department office.
Chairperson: Chiyedza Small | csmall@mec.cuny.edu
Phone: 718 270-6458 Fax: 718 270-6498
Location: 1650 Bedford Avenue, AB1-403 N