The biology curriculum structures learning based on the scientific process of discovery: observation, interpretation, experimentation, analysis, and the formation of new hypotheses. Through exploration of recent developments in the broad range of biological fields, students examine details in the context of basic principles. They experience the dynamic nature of biological science by participating in laboratory work and research projects that form the backbone of the program. The curricular design offers many choices to students, allowing non-majors to explore any one field of biology in depth or to examine biology in the context of human issues having sociological, economic, and political importance, such as health care, biotechnology, and the environment.

The Biology Curriculum

Biology majors must take both foundation courses (BIOL 115 and 116 unless specifically exempted by AP exams or IB credit) and the year-long introductory laboratory sequence, BIOL 109Y-110Y. The foundation courses must be completed within the first four semesters. Advanced courses may be taken after completion of the prerequisite foundation course, so students can begin advanced courses while completing the introductory series. A year of introductory chemistry lecture or the equivalent is also required of all majors.

Upper-level courses are offered at the 200 and 300 levels. Courses at the 200 level are designed for sophomores and juniors who have completed at least part of the introductory-level curriculum. Reading assignments include textbooks, primary literature, and other advanced sources. Courses at the 300 level are designed for juniors and seniors who have completed the entire introductory-level curriculum and at least one 200 level course. Primary literature and other advanced sources form a substantial portion of the reading, and extensive student-directed work is expected.

In addition to the biology major, major programs in biochemistry and in molecular biology are available. These programs combine work in biology and chemistry to prepare students for graduate work or employment entailing research on the molecular basis of biological systems. Information on course requirements for these major programs is detailed in the biochemistry and molecular biology section.

Non-majors can choose innovative topical courses that approach biological issues in a human context (BIOL 103, 104, 105, 106 , 107). These courses are designed for students with minimal backgrounds in biology. The foundation courses--BIOL 115 and 116--allow more in-depth study. Several courses also serve the interdisciplinary concentration in environmental studies.

For students considering medical, dental, nursing, or veterinary postgraduate programs, there is usually a requirement of a minimum of two semesters of biology with the corresponding laboratory work. BIOL 115 and 116 plus the laboratory sequence BIOL 109Y-110Y satisfy this requirement.

Students can involve themselves in the department through the Biology Student Advisory Group, which meets with the chair and faculty members, or as employees ranging from laboratory teaching proctors to research assistants.

Majors are encouraged to participate in the department through research with faculty members and by their active role in hiring faculty, suggesting curriculum changes, inviting seminar speakers, and planning social events.

Requirements for the Biology Major

The following requirements apply to students who declare a major in biology.

• BIOL 115 and 116 (or specific exemption), to be completed within four semesters of starting this series.
• BIOL 109Y-110Y, to be completed by the end of the sophomore year.
• Six upper-division lecture courses, including at least one 300-level course. MATH 258 counts toward this requirement.
• Four upper-division laboratory courses (.5 unit of credit earned in Research in Biology or Senior Honors can serve as one .25-unit laboratory course requirement).
• One year of Introductory Chemistry lecture (or equivalent).

In order to fulfill the diversification requirements for upper-level courses, biology majors will need to take at least one upper-level lecture course in each of the following three categories to graduate:

• Environmental biology: BIOL 228, 241, 251, 253, 261, 272, 328, 352, and 362.
• Organismal biology/physiology: BIOL 233, 238, 243, 245, 336, and 358.
• Cellular and molecular biology: BIOL 238, 255, 263, 266, 321, 333, 351 and 375.

We strongly encourage majors to take at least one year of mathematics and physics. Students planning graduate studies in any area of biology should also include organic chemistry. We encourage majors to seek opportunities for independent research with faculty members, through Research in Biology, honors research, and the Summer Science Scholars Program.

Senior Exercise

The Senior Exercise for all biology majors consists of a detailed analysis of a research field, focusing on a critique of a particular research article. In addition, all majors must attend a specified number of guest lectures in the Biology Seminar Series and take a standardized assessment exam.

Advanced Courses Offered in Biology

Many courses and laboratories are offered in alternating years, so care should be taken in planning the major to suit individual goals. The following list indicates which courses are normally taught on alternating-year schedules. Please note that the schedule can vary from these guidelines; students should consult the department chair or course instructor if particular courses are needed.

Courses that may be offered in alternating years include: BIOL 233, 234, 241 , 245, 246, 251, 255, 256, 266, 321, 322, 328, 333, 336, 346, 349, 351, 352, 353, 358, 359, 362, and 375.

Honors

The Honors Program in biology is an exciting opportunity for students to perform research in collaboration with a faculty member of the Department of Biology. Prior to enrollment in senior honors, students are ordinarily expected to complete at least one semester of Research in Biology (BIOL 385, 386) and participate in the Summer Science Scholars Program. Two semesters of Research in Biology are recommended. Students must have an overall GPA of at least 3.33 and a GPA of 3.33 in biology.

Requirements for the Biology Minor

The minor in biology requires a minimum of 2.75 units of credit earned in the major curriculum; these must include the foundation courses (BIOL 115 and 116), the introductory laboratory, BIOL 109Y-110Y , and at least one upper-level laboratory. One year of BIOL 385, 386 would satisfy the upper-level laboratory requirement and one year of BIOL 393, 394 would satisfy one upper-level lecture course requirement in the area minor.

Transfer Credit Policy

All transfer credit must be approved in advance by the chair.

CROSS-LISTED COURSES
The following courses are cross-listed with the biology offerings to satisfy natural-sciences diversification:

ENVS 112 Introduction to Environmental Studies
MATH 258 Mathematical Biology