Biology is the study of life forms. A concentration designated as Biology is based on theoretical concepts rather than application of theory as in health sciences. This concentration requires a minimum of 39 credits.

Concentration Requirements:

Requirement	Credits
Introductory Biology	8 credits (1 year)
Genetics*	3 credits
One course from the following list: Biochemistry*, Physiology*, or Cell Biology*	3 credits
Organic Chemistry	3 credits
Biology electives beyond the introductory level, in any one or combination of the subject areas such as Botany, Embryology, Comparative Anatomy, Evolution, Ecology, or Microbiology	15-21 credits
Capstone - BIO 499 Culminating course in concentration)	3 credits
TOTAL	39 minimum
Co-requisites: one semester of Calculus ro Statistics. If planning to go to graduate school - 1 year of Calculus.	3-6 credits

*Taken within the past ten (10) years.

Notes: Only grades of C of higher may be included in the concentration.

A second option for completing the requirements of this concentration - The GRE Subject Test in Biology, evaluated at 24 credits (15 lower, 9 upper), and at least 12 additional credits that must include two upper level laboratory courses and the 3 credit capstone.

Recommended Courses:
A second semester of Organic Chemistry
Computer literacy, including spreadsheets

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who graduate with a concentration in Biology will be able to:

1. apply knowledge of subject matter from across the full range of biology curricula, including:
   1. core biological concepts; and
   2. skills necessary for lifelong professional learning in biological sciences;
2. apply problem solving and critical thinking skills in the biological sciences, including:
   1. generating hypotheses, designing approaches to test the hypotheses, and interpreting the data from those tests to reach valid conclusions; and
   2. demonstrate ethical demeanor when conducting scientific experiments;
3. apply appropriate quantitative skills for the study of biology;
4. use information literacy skills to find, read, and critically evaluate original scientific literature in biological sciences;
5. use appropriate communication skills to present scientific information; and demonstrate basic laboratory skills.

Concentration Plan of Study Forms

The concentration plan of study (CPS) is the tool you will use to plan your degree completion program. The CPS form offers information on how subject requirements can be met. You may download the form below as a Microsoft Word document (form will open in a new window). To request a course subsitution in a CPS, use the Request for Substitution Form. Additional information on the concentration is also available in the Official Catalog.

• Biology CPS Form
• Biology (GRE Option) CPS Form

Please Note: for prospective students this form should simply serve as a guide. Once you have matriculated (enrolled), you will receive personalized degree planning advice from your Academic Counselor.