BS in Biology

The Bachelor of Science degree exposes students to the range of concepts, approaches and techniques used by modern biologists. With three concentration options to choose from, BS students can specialize their studies to match their goals and interests.

Many graduates go on to medical, dental or veterinary school. Some continue in graduate programs in biology at GW or institutions around the country. Others find employment in private-sector pharmaceutical or biotechnology careers or in government roles.

Concentrations

Majors in the BS in biology track choose from three concentrations.

General Biology

This concentration suits students interested in health sciences, biotechnology or further study. Through careful instruction in the latest biological concepts, this concentration prepares students for the GRE, MCAT, DAT and other pre-health examinations.

Students wishing to prepare for medical school should also take a second course in Physics, PHYS 1012, 1022 or 1026.

Required

• CHEM 2151 Organic Chemistry I & CHEM 2152 Organic Chemistry II
• CHEM 2153 Organic Chemistry Laboratory I & CHEM 2154 Organic Chemistry Laboratory II
• CHEM 3165 Biochemistry I or BISC 3261 Introductory Medical Biochemistry

Electives
At least one 3-credit course from each of the four elective category listed below for a total of 12 credits, in addition to the courses satisfying the core course requirements. These 12 credits count toward the 18 required upper-level biology credits.

Cellular and Molecular Biology

A strong background in cellular and molecular biology can pave the way to careers in medicine, immunology, cutting-edge tech companies and much more. This interdisciplinary concentration shares courses between the biology and chemistry departments.

Required

• BISC 3209 Molecular Biology & BISC 3208 Molecular Biology Laboratory
• CHEM 2151 Organic Chemistry I & CHEM 2153 Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
• CHEM 2152 Organic Chemistry II & CHEM 2154 Organic Chemistry Laboratory II
• BISC 3261 Introductory Medical Biochemistry or CHEM 3165 Biochemistry I

Electives
In addition to the courses satisfying the core course requirements, at least one 3-credit course from each of the four elective categories listed below for a total of 12 credits. These 12 credits count toward the 18 required upper-level biology credits.

Sample Course Schedule [PDF]

Ecology, Evolution and Environment

With courses ranging from marine ecology to evolutionary medicine, this concentration incorporates a field study component for real-world experience. Students prepare for research and careers in evolutionary biology, conservation and environmental science.

Required
In addition to the courses satisfying the core course requirements, at least one 3-credit course from both the systems electives and organism electives lists; at least 6 credits from the evolution, ecology, and environment electives list, including one course with a field component; and 6 credits from the quantitative electives list, including at least one statistics course.

Sample Course Schedule [PDF]

Each concentration for the BS degree requires a set number of electives from four categories:

• Systems: Focuses on genetics, physiology and biotechnology
• Organisms: Includes subjects like zoology, anatomy and microbiology
• Evolution, Ecology and Environment: Covers material in areas including field and marine biology and animal behavior
• Quantitative: Builds a foundation in calculus, statistics and bioinformatics.

Interested in Medical School?

 

 

Students wishing to prepare for medical school should take a second course in physics in addition to the core major requirements. While the Department of Biological Sciences does not offer a pre-med track, CCAS Undergraduate Advising provides pre-health advising guidance.

Visit CCAS Pre-health Advising

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Course Requirements