General Biology, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science in General Biology is ideal for students with broad interests in the life sciences. The general biology program allows students to sample courses from marine biology, ecology and molecular biology to discover their own areas of emphasis. Undergraduates can then easily switch between the programs offered within the department and graduates in general biology are poised to enter post-baccalaureate programs in any of these areas.

Summer field-courses are available in the Galapagos Islands, Jamaica, Florida, Puerto Rico, Peru, the Smoky Mountains and other locations. The program is also ideal for students interested in pursuing degrees in STEM education. The degree is eligible for the fast track program, allowing students to complete the bachelor’s degree in general biology and the master’s degree in either conservation technology or biotechnology in five years.

Admission Requirements

Students intending to apply for admission to a major in the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences are strongly encouraged to complete at least one year each of high school biology, chemistry and physics. Prospective students should also have at least three years of high school mathematics including second-year algebra and trigonometry.

Degree Requirements

Candidates for a Bachelor of Science in General Biology must complete the minimum course requirements outlined in the following curriculum. Electives are selected in consultation with the faculty advisor to reflect the knowledge a student needs either for employment or graduate school.