Program Overview

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Department of Biology

The Department of Biology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers various programs for undergraduate and graduate students.

Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Program (ABM)

The Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Program (ABM) in Biology allows undergraduate students to take courses that count simultaneously toward their undergraduate and graduate programs. Upon completion, students enter the job market with increased earning potential and high-level critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

How it Works

Our program offers two 30-hour tracks: Thesis and Non-Thesis Options.

Plan I Thesis Degree

• Semester Hours: 30
• Curriculum:
  • BY 545: Principals of Scientific Investigation or BY 655: Biometry (3 hours)
  • GRD 715: TA Training for STEM Laboratories (2 hours)
  • BY 600 series: Colloquium in Biological Sciences (2 hours, two offerings, 1 hour each)
  • BY 500 to BY 696 (8 hours, from any concentration)
  • BY 698 Non-thesis (9 hours, pre-candidacy)
  • BY 699 Thesis (6 hours, post-candidacy)

Plan II Non-Thesis

• Semester Hours: 30
• Curriculum:
  • BY 500-696 (16 hours, from any concentration)
  • BY 600 series: Colloquium in Biological Sciences (2 hours, two offerings, 1 hour each)
  • BY 698 Non-thesis (6 hours)
  • Electives (6 hours)

Admissions

Early acceptance to ABM-Biology is offered to high-achieving incoming freshmen. High school students with Presidential Scholarships (in-state) or Blazer Elite Scholarships (out-of-state) will automatically receive offers. All students must maintain a 3.5 GPA as a UAB undergraduate to matriculate into ABM-Biology.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Current students may apply once they have earned 60 or more undergraduate hours, at least 36 of which must be earned at UAB.
• Students must have a 3.50 overall undergraduate GPA, including science background (e.g., biology, organic chemistry).
• Students must have completed BY 123/124, BY 210 and/or BY 330, as well as CH 115/116, CH 117/118, CH 235/236, and CH 237/238 with a C or better.
• GRE is NOT required.
• Students should complete at least one term of BY 398 or have equivalent effort before matriculation.

Application Process

Prior to applying, prospective students must meet with the Undergraduate Advisor and Biology Graduate Program Director to discuss program requirements and outline a course plan as an ABM-Biology student.

Requirements for Application Review

• Biology program application form that indicates courses planned for shared credit
• Personal statement explaining why you are applying to ABM-Biology and how it will benefit your career development
• At least one letter of recommendation
• Application fee

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Biology offers various undergraduate programs, including:

• Biology Major
• Bioinformatics
• Genetics and Genomic Sciences
• Immunology
• Honors Program
• Minors
• Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Program (ABM)
• Fast-Track Master's Program
• Student Resources
• Advising
• Biology Cafť

Graduate Programs

The Department of Biology offers graduate programs, including:

• Master's degree
• Ph.D. degree
• Graduate certificates

Research Areas

The Department of Biology has various research areas, including:

• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Ecology and Evolution
• Genetics and Genomics
• Microbiology
• Neuroscience
• Plant Biology

Faculty and Staff

The Department of Biology has a diverse faculty and staff, including:

• Faculty
• Affiliated Faculty
• Emeritus Faculty
• Graduate Students
• Staff

Alumni

The Department of Biology has a strong alumni network, with graduates pursuing careers in various fields, including:

• Academia
• Industry
• Government
• Non-profit

Events

The Department of Biology hosts various events, including:

• Seminars
• Workshops
• Conferences
• Career fairs

News

The Department of Biology publishes news and updates on its website, including:

• Research highlights
• Faculty and student achievements
• Departmental news

Resources

The Department of Biology provides various resources for students, including:

• Undergraduate Programs
• Undergraduate Catalog
• Apply (Undergraduate)
• Graduate Program
• Graduate Catalog
• Apply (Graduate)