Course planning advice here is limited to majors. For a full description of degree requirements, please see this
overview of the Academic Program and refer to the
Catalog for details and official rules. Any discrepancy between the Course Planning Pages and the Catalog will be resolved in favor of the Catalog.
Where should I start if I am just sampling this subject as a non-major?
-
Any
biology course at the 100-level up to and including Fundamentals
of Cellular Life (BIOL 150) or Evolution & Diversity of
Life (BIOL 155) depending on interests. See Course Schedule for
this year’s options.
Fundamentals of Cellular Life Life (BIOL 150) and Evolution & Diversity
of Life (BIOL 155) are the first biology major courses, appropriate for
students deeply interested in biology or expecting to use biology as part of
their professional training. These courses do not have to be taken in order,
either course can be taken first.
Where should I start if I might use this as part of a major or as a potential major?
In the first year, students planning to major in Biology or Health Sciences should complete:
- Fundamentals
of Cellular Life (BIOL 150) and Evolution & Diversity of
Life (BIOL 155)
- General
Chemistry I (CHEM 110) and General Chemistry II (CHEM
120)
- NOTE: Success
in the General Chemistry I (CHEM 110) and General
Chemistry II (CHEM 120) sequence is highly correlated with
algebra skills. If your ACT in math is 23 or below, strongly
consider delaying General Chemistry (CHEM 110) for a year. Data show
that some additional math experience and experience in college greatly
improves the likelihood of a positive outcome. Please consult your
Academic Advisor or a member of the Chemistry Department.
Where should I start if I have some experience in this discipline before college?
Students with previous experience in biology are strongly
encouraged to start in Fundamentals of Cellular Life (BIOL 150) or Evolution
& Diversity of Life (BIOL 155) since course pacing and laboratory
experience vary greatly.
- For
concurrent high school / college credits – please consult with the
Department
- For
advanced placement credits – please refer to “Advanced Placement Credits” or “International Baccalaureate
Credits” in the College Catalog.
- Regardless
of previous experience, Genetics (BIOL 250) is not
available to first-year students. First-year students with an unusually
strong background in biology wishing to consider genetics must consult
with the Biology Department chair.
When should I declare a major?
- All students must declare a major by the deadline to drop a course without a grade during the spring of the sophomore year.