Biology Major

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Biology entails the study of the entire process of life from its beginning, through its development, reproduction and to its cessation and decay. Many of the new developments and discoveries in this dynamic field are the result of interdisciplinary cooperation between biologists, chemists, physicists and computer scientists. These researchers have added considerably to our understanding of the basic principles and mechanisms of living systems at cellular, molecular, organismic, population and ecological levels. Career opportunities for those who major in biology are numerous. Besides being one of the traditional preparatory fields for those pursuing careers as health care professionals, biology is an excellent choice of major for those interested in secondary education, ecology, or the burgeoning genetic engineering industry. And, of course, the areas of academic and industrial research are open to those who pursue a PhD in the discipline.

Students wishing to continue their education in biology-related graduate or professional school programs may need to supplement this basic curriculum with additional course work in science. Suggested programs are available and Keck Science faculty should be consulted for advice at the earliest possible opportunity.

Requirements for the Major

Learning Outcomes of the Program in Biology

The Biology major aims to provide students with skills and knowledge to effectively engage and evaluate biological issues and innovations in the wider world, and to prepare them as leaders in research, biotechnology, and health-related career fields.

We see the following specific student learning goals as critical to achieving the above:

Understand the foundational scientific principles and findings In the student’s major field of biology.
Develop critical thinking and analytical skills by developing specific hypotheses and designing controlled experiments to test those hypotheses.
Read, understand and critique original research articles.

Courses required for the Biology major:

BIOL 043L KS , BIOL 044L KS , or BIOL 040L KS and BIOL 044L KS , or both semester of the AISS course;
CHEM 014L KS , CHEM 015L KS (or CHEM 029L KS ), or CHEM 040L KS and CHEM 015L KS , or both semesters of the AISS course;
CHEM 116L KS , CHEM 117L KS ;
MATH 030 PZ (should be taken before Physics);
PHYS 030L KS , PHYS 031L KS (or PHYS 033L KS , PHYS 034L KS ), or both semesters of the AISS course;
Six (6) advanced courses in biology (including three laboratory courses) chosen in consultation with the Biology faculty, so as to obtain depth in one area of biology (e.g., cellular/molecular, organismal, or population-level) or breadth across all areas. Students completing a two-semester thesis normally take BIOL 188L KS during the fall semester of their senior year and BIOL 190L KS in the spring. BIOL 191 KS , One-Semester Thesis in Biology is required of all majors in Science not completing BIOL 188L KS and BIOL 190L KS .