Biology (Minor)
The minor in biology (20 Credits) is designed for students majoring in another department who would like to develop an additional focus of study by completing a set of courses in biology. This option may be appropriate for students in a wide range of fields. Chemistry majors with an interest in biochemistry could profit from more background in cellular and molecular biology. Earth science majors with an interest in paleobiology could select courses in organismal biology, ecology and evolution. Pre-health students not majoring in Biology can use the Biology Minor as an opportunity to take a coherent set of courses to prepare for entrance exams (e.g. the MCAT). The biology minor is also appropriate for students whose major is not in the natural sciences. For example, students interested in careers in technical writing or journalism, or students planning a career as a lawyer specializing in environmental or biotechnology issues could benefit from a minor in biology.
To declare the minor a student should fill out the Minor Declaration form available in the Biology Department office (Science Building 313). The student will be assigned a faculty advisor from the Biology Department, and a minor audit sheet will be generated. The minor requires a minimum of 20 credit hours (see guidelines below). Students minoring in Biology meet with their faculty advisors in Biology to select and schedule courses to fulfill the minor, just as they meet with advisors in their major departments to plan their major.
Minor Requirements
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The following for a total of 12 credit hours:
- BIO 211 Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics
- BIO 212 Introduction to Organismal Biology and Diversity
- BIO 213 Introduction to Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior
- An additional eight credit hours of 300-400 level coursework selected with the assistance of a biology faculty advisor. Coursework may include any combination of 300-400 level Biology "majors" courses (i.e., biology courses required for the biology B.A. or B.S.Ed. degree programs except as noted below.)
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Please note the following restrictions:
- The following cannot, be applied to the biology minor: BI0 100, BIO 101, BIO 104, BIO 105, BIO 210, BIO 488 (Internship), BIO 495 (Project), or BIO 499 (Independent Study)
- A maximum of one credit of Biology seminar (BIO 361/362) is allowed
- A maximum of three transfer courses (12 credits maximum) will be accepted as part of the Biology minor. The department chairperson will judge the acceptability of transfer courses.
- A student considering the Biology minor should check for prerequisite requirements when planning the program. Prerequisite requirements are listed in the college catalog.
