The Biology Department offers two undergraduate degree programs: the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program.
Both degree options familiarize students with the broad range of issues and topics that characterize contemporary biology, while also allowing students the opportunity to select an individualized course of study that focuses on a particular aspect of biology in great depth. As such, a student can select the degree program that is best suited to his or her own personal strengths, interests, and career goals.
Biology B.S. Major
The Biology B.S. degree is appropriate for students who are interested in pursuing those aspects of the field that require a strong background knowledge in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Students in the Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental Program tend to pursue the B.S. degree since this option will automatically fulfill pre-medical requirements as part of the major.
Biology B.A. MAJOR
The Biology B.A. degree program also has a solid foundation in biology as its base, but it removes the specific requirements for organic chemistry and calculus-based physics that are required for the B.S. program.
The B.A. program, therefore, allows more room in a student's schedule for selecting additional science and mathematics courses as well as more opportunity to broaden his or her educational experience. Students in the B.A. program should be aware that this program will not automatically fulfill pre-medical requirements as part of their major and they are urged to contact the Pre-Medical Office (Higgins 648) for information on the specific requirements of that program.