Bachelor of Science in Biology
Lead Faculty:
Dr. Michael R. Maxwell
The Bachelor of Science in Biology offers personal and academic fulfillment and growth as students discover the amazing world of biology. This degree prepares students for graduate and professional study, careers in life science education, research, health sciences, and applied biology. The BS Biology provides a solid foundation in all levels of biological organization, from molecules to ecosystems. Such a comprehensive curriculum is crucial to meeting modern challenges in science, which include new and emerging diseases, rapid advances in our understanding of genetics, physiology and biodiversity, threats to species and ecosystem functioning, and global population increase and sustainability. A degree in biology is common preparation for careers in the various medical professions, genetics, molecular and cell biology, biotechnology, microbiology, conservation biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, animal and plant science, as well as science writing, editing and education.
Students who wish to include an interdisciplinary approach to their academic training should look closely at the benefits provided by this major. In addition to meeting requirements for BS Biology, this degree allows for the integration of study in the life sciences with coursework in the physical and earth sciences, as well as applied fields such as forensics. Furthermore, in keeping with the commitment
Program Learning Outcomes
- Discuss biological processes at all of levels of organization: molecular, cellular and microbial, organismal, population, and ecosystem.
- Explain the importance of unifying concepts in biology, including cell theory, genetics, and evolution.
- Describe the structure and function of Earth's organisms, as well as their roles in the natural world.
- Apply the scientific method in laboratory-based and field-based inquiry.
- Demonstrate effective oral, visual, and written communication and quantitative skills, including the critical analysis of data and scientific literature.
- Demonstrate computer and technology literacy, including the ability to access databases within the context of course research and project development.
- Evaluate historical developments and research in biology, as well as current and contemporary research and challenges.
Requirements
To receive a Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology, students must complete at least 180 quarter units as articulated below, 45 of which must be completed in residence at National University, and 76.5 of which must be completed at the upper division level. In the absence of transfer credit, additional general electives may be necessary to satisfy total units for the degree. Refer to the section on undergraduate admission requirements for specific information regarding admission and evaluation.
* Completion of BIO 100, 100A, 201, 201A, 202, 202A, 203, 203A is equivalent to the course sequence BIO 161, 162, 163, 100A for fulfillment of the BS Biology degree.
Preparation for the Major
(16-17 courses; 60.0-61.5 quarter units)
Requirements for the Major
(12 courses; 42.0 quarter units)
Core Requisite(s):
- BIO 408 Genetics and Heredity
- BIO 420 Animal Behavior
- BIO 310 Evolution
- BIO 330 Ecology
- BIO 416 Vertebrate Zoology
- BIO 416A Vertebrate Zoology Laboratory
- BIO 407 Molecular Biology
- BIO 406A Cellular Biology Lab
- BIO 406 Cellular Biology
- BIO 414A Invertebrate Zoology Lab
- BIO 414 Invertebrate Zoology
- BIO 407A Molecular Biology Lab
Upper-Division Electives
(7 courses; 31.5 quarter units) Students may select only 300-, 400-, or 500-level in the College of Letters and Sciences to complete the total of 76.5 quarter units of upper division for the degree. Suggested upper-division courses are given below. Approved transition program students may select up to two FSC courses from below to meet up to 9.0 quarter units of the elective requirement.
