Minor in Biology

 

Student with magnifier

 

For students who wish to combine biology studies with other disciplines, the minor provides a flexible option.

Starting with two foundational courses in cellular and molecular biology and laboratory basics, students fill out the remaining required credits with electives to suit their academic or career path. Elective classes delve into a variety of topics, from evolution and plant diversity to parasitology and animal behavior.

Biology Minor Course Requirements

Note: Research and independent study do not count toward the elective credit hours.

The following requirements must be fulfilled: 20 credits, including 8 credits in prerequisite courses and 12 credits in elective courses.

Prerequisites
BISC 1115
& BISC 1125		Introductory Biology: Cells and Molecules
and Introduction to Cells and Molecules Laboratory *
BISC 1116
& BISC 1126		Introductory Biology: The Biology of Organisms
and Introduction to Organisms Laboratory
Electives
12 credits in biological sciences (BISC) courses at the 2000-3000 level.

 *Honors Program students and those who have been invited to join the Scholars in Quantitative and Natural Sciences (SQNS) Program take BISC 1120 instead of BISC 1125 for the lab component.

 

 

Minor in Sustainability

For students eager to learn about sustainable, science-based solutions to environmental problems, the minor in sustainability is a popular choice. Overseen by the Provost and involving several departments across the university (including biology, social justice, law, business and geography), this minor pairs classroom instruction with community-based learning and research. Minors must complete 18 credits from one of three tracks, with Track A offering the deepest focus on biological sciences.

 

Faculty Making a Difference

Tara Scully

Tara Scully Brings Ethics Into the Biology Classroom

As director of the interdisciplinary sustainability minor program, Assistant Professor of Biology Tara Scully demonstrates how biology feeds into social justice, ethics and even optimism about the future of the planet. In Biology of Nutrition and Health, students partner with community organizations to learn about local food supply and sustainability. Scully received the 2016 Engaged Faculty Award in recognition of her successful integration of service with the biology curriculum.