The major in biology is designed to give students a broad introduction to the many areas of biological science. In addition, students who complete the major will also have fulfilled the minimum requirements for pre-medicine, pre-veterinary medicine, and pre-dentistry.
The major can be completed only by daytime attendance. Although some undergraduate courses are offered in late afternoon (and all graduate courses open to undergraduates are offered at night), it is not possible to complete the major by taking only evening courses.
As part of the major, students have the opportunity to work with a faculty member on a research project, normally in their junior or senior year. Students receive credit for this research experience by registering for Special Problems in Biology after arranging the details with a faculty member of their choice.
Declaring your major
You are urged to declare your major as soon as you possible – even if you have not completely made up your mind. Why? When you declare your major you are automatically included on the Biology Department’s email mailing list and thus receive announcements, helpful hints, and other information you may find useful in solidifying your career goals. To declare your major, please contact the Registrar’s Office. Should you want to change your major at a later time, follow the same procedure for your new major.
Obtaining advice
Students who decide to major in biology will be assigned an advisor by email. Students are urged to see their advisor as soon as possible in order to plan their schedule of courses. If you don’t know who your advisor is, then contact the Biology Secretary, Janet Caruso (108 Science Building, email). Students who are uncertain as to whether biology is the most appropriate major for their intended career should seek advice from their Biology Department advisor and/or from the Career Center which is located in the lower level of the Camden Campus Center.