Program Overview

Introduction to the Biological Sciences Program

The University of California, Merced offers an undergraduate major in Biological Sciences, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of biology across all its scales, from molecules and cells to organisms and ecosystems. The program teaches biology as a unified and interdisciplinary science, reflecting the foundational importance of chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, and philosophy to our understanding of biological systems.

Program Overview

The undergraduate major in Biological Sciences provides a strong basis for a career in any of the biological, ecological, biomedical, health, or industrial fields. The program offers both B.A. and B.S. degrees, each designed to equip students with the foundational skills and knowledge to pursue biology-related careers. The B.S. in Biology prepares students for advanced research and industry jobs in several core predefined biological disciplines outlined by track offerings. Students choosing the B.S. in Biology can pick from among the current emphasis tracks, providing backgrounds in different areas of biology.

Degree Options

• B.A. in Biological Sciences: This degree particularly prepares students with the latitude and space to more broadly explore the interdisciplinary fields that comprise biology, design a curriculum suited to their learning and job goals, and add a career-specific minor to the degree program.
• B.S. in Biological Sciences: This degree offers a traditional biology major that prepares students for advanced research and industry jobs in several core predefined biological disciplines outlined by track offerings.

Emphasis Tracks

The B.S. in Biology offers emphasis tracks, which consist of a sequence of five to six upper-division courses taken in the second, third, and fourth years of the program. These tracks provide students with in-depth knowledge in specific areas of biology.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of both the B.A. and B.S. in Biological Sciences can earn skills relevant to healthcare, biotechnology, conservation, policy and natural resource management, laboratory technical work, data analysis, education, and beyond. They are also suitable for continued study in master's and doctoral programs.

Commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The UC Merced Biological Sciences Undergraduate Program is committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion for all members, including students, faculty, and staff.

Additional Information

For more detailed information about the program, including major and emphasis requirements, general education, and course flow charts, please refer to the university catalog.