BSBIO - Bachelor of Science with a Major in Biological Sciences

Are you interested in the study of life, ranging from molecules to ecosystems, with applications in conservation, medicine, and more? The Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences is designed to help students develop the content knowledge, conceptual understanding, and scientific skills needed to explore the living world across all levels of biological organization. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in biology and allows students to select one of four concentrations to guide their upper-division coursework: Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Coastal Ecology, or Integrative Biology. Scientific reasoning and investigative methods are practiced in the classroom, laboratory, and field. Students also have opportunities to participate in biological research, internships, and service-learning. The program prepares students to succeed in a variety of biology-related careers and graduate and professional programs.

The Biochemistry concentration emphasizes quantitative approaches that bridge students’ interests in biology and chemistry. Students are prepared for a variety of biochemistry-related graduate programs and jobs. In particular, they gain laboratory skills that are marketable for industry positions such as quality control, product development, and diagnostics.

The Biomedical Science concentration prepares students for professional programs and rewarding careers in human health, veterinary medicine, and other medical-related fields. Additionally, students are well-qualified for graduate studies in biomedical research, public health, and biotechnology.

The Coastal Ecology concentration explores biological diversity on the coast and beyond, including how organisms interact with their environment and how threatened species can be protected. Students are prepared for employment with a variety of wildlife and natural resource management agencies, conservation nonprofits, and research organizations, or they may pursue graduate studies in areas such as marine biology, ecology, zoology, botany, or conservation science.

Note: students who are primarily interested in marine biology are advised to major in Biological Sciences (Coastal Ecology) and to minor in Marine Science.

Integrative Biology incorporates multiple disciplines and perspectives to study whole organisms—plants, animals, microbes, etc.—and the genetic, cellular, physiological, ecological, and evolutionary processes that shape them. The Integrative Biology concentration is the most flexible, preparing students for a wide range of academic and professional pathways depending on their interests and goals.

In addition to the above program of study, students must also complete all collegewide Graduation Requirements.