Minor in Biology

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.

Declare a Biology Minor

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.

Course List
Code	Title	Credits
Prerequisites
BISC 1111	Introductory Biology: Cells and Molecules
BISC 1112	Introductory Biology: The Biology of Organisms
Electives
12 credits in biological sciences (BISC) courses taken at the 2000 to 4000 levels and/or from the following approved non-BISC courses:
BIOC 3261	Introductory Medical Biochemistry
BIOC 3262	Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOC 3263	Special Topics in Biochemistry
BIOC 3564	Lipid Biotechnology
CHEM 3165	Biochemistry I
CHEM 3166W	Biochemistry II
CHEM 3262	Biochemistry Laboratory
CHEM 3564	Lipid Biotechnology
GEOL 2151	Introduction to Paleontology

*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 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.