Major in Biological Science, Biological Science Concentration
Program Overview
The Biological Science program offers a comprehensive foundation in biological sciences, allowing students to explore interests in preparation for professional careers or further study in the biosciences. Students develop a strong understanding of evolutionary principles, cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, ecology, and more, fulfilling pre-professional requirements and pursuing upper-division concentrations in areas of passion.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This curriculum provides a broad background in the basic biological sciences, and permits students to select courses in areas of particular interest. The major is especially useful in meeting the pre-professional requirements in the biosciences. Students desiring this preparation should also check the appropriate pre-professional requirements.
Outline:
Freshman Year:
- Semester 1:
- CO 150 College Composition (GT-CO2) - 1A3 credits
- LIFE 102 Attributes of Living Systems (GT-SC1) - 3A4 credits
- Arts and Humanities - 3B6 credits
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - 1C3 credits
- MATH 117, MATH 118 (may be necessary for some students to fulfill pre-calculus requirements) - credits vary
- Semester 2:
- CHEM 111 General Chemistry I (GT-SC2) - 3A4 credits
- CHEM 112 General Chemistry Lab I (GT-SC1) - 3A1 credits
- LIFE 103 Biology of Organisms-Animals and Plants (GT-SC1) - 3A4 credits
- CO 150 College Composition (must be completed by the end of Semester 2) - credits vary
- MATH 124, MATH 125 (may be necessary for some students to fulfill pre-calculus requirements) - credits vary
Sophomore Year:
- Semester 3:
- BZ 220 Introduction to Evolution - 3 credits
- CHEM 113 General Chemistry II - 3 credits
- CHEM 114 General Chemistry Lab II - 1 credit
- Historical Perspectives - 3D3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences - 3C3 credits
- Elective - 3 credits
- Semester 4:
- BZ 310 Cell Biology - 4 credits
- CHEM 245 Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry - 4 credits
- CHEM 246 Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry Laboratory - 1 credit
- STAT 301 Introduction to Applied Statistical Methods or STAT 307 Introduction to Biostatistics or Elective - 3 credits
Junior Year:
- Semester 5:
- BC 351 Principles of Biochemistry or BC 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry I or BC 403 Comprehensive Biochemistry II - 4-6 credits
- Elective - 3 credits
- Upper Division Elective (see list on Concentration Requirements tab) - 3 credits
- Semester 6:
- PH 122 General Physics II (GT-SC1) or PH 142 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II (GT-SC1) - 3A credits
- Advanced Writing - 23 credits
- Electives - 4 credits
- Upper Division Elective (see list on Concentration Requirements tab) - 3 credits
Senior Year:
- Semester 7:
- BZ 350 Molecular and General Genetics - 4A, 4B credits
- Electives - 7 credits
- Upper Division Elective (see list on Concentration Requirements tab) - 3 credits
- Semester 8:
- BZ 311 Developmental Biology - 4 credits
- LIFE 320 Ecology - 4C3 credits
- Upper Division Electives (see list on Concentration Requirements tab) - 9 credits
Other:
- The curriculum includes a two-semester introductory biology sequence, cell biology, developmental biology, ecology, evolution, and genetics.
- Required courses in the physical sciences include a minimum of one year in introductory chemistry and in physics (with labs), and at least one course in organic chemistry (with lab), and one in biochemistry.
- A calculus course and a statistics course are also required.
- Students must complete a minimum of 18 upper-division credits of which 9 credits must be from "BZ" courses.
- To be qualified for graduation, students in the Biological Science major must have a minimum grade of C- in each of their biological, physical science, and mathematical courses used to meet requirements for the major.
- It is recommended that you do not take BZ 310 and BZ 350 together.
- A maximum of 3 credits may be selected from the following courses: BZ 384 Supervised College Teaching, BZ 487 Internship, BZ 495 Independent Study, BZ 498 Laboratory or Field Research.
Colorado State University
Overview:
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. CSU emphasizes a sense of community and a shared energy among students, faculty, and staff, all driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSU offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students are encouraged to explore their passions and discover new possibilities both inside and outside the classroom. The university boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty, and the broader Fort Collins community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Groundbreaking Research:
CSU is a leading research institution, with faculty and students actively engaged in cutting-edge projects across various disciplines.Transformative Student Body:
The university attracts a diverse and motivated student population, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.Beautiful Location:
Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, CSU offers stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.Commitment to Impact:
CSU emphasizes the importance of making a positive difference in the world, encouraging students to pursue careers and research that address global challenges.Academic Programs:
CSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 70 majors across nearly 300 programs. The university is particularly known for its strengths in:
Engineering:
CSU's College of Engineering is highly regarded, with programs in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, among others.Agriculture and Natural Resources:
CSU is a leading institution in agricultural research and education, with strong programs in animal science, horticulture, and environmental science.Health Sciences:
CSU offers a variety of health-related programs, including nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences.Other:
CSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and keynote speaker series. The university also has a strong alumni network and a vibrant community in Fort Collins.
