Biology Major (BS)

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The study of biological sciences enhances students’ knowledge of the fundamental facts and principles concerning living matter, from molecules to the environment, through an evolutionary lens.

The student who seeks the bachelor of science degree with a major in biology must complete a minimum of eighteen courses, including at least ten biology courses.

Required Courses:

One of the following statistics courses:

Three Biology elective courses at or above the 100 level for a minimum of 9 hours.

At least six of the 11 biology courses required for the major (BS) must be taken at Salem.

A student intending to be a biology major should meet with her advisor early and regularly to discuss a suggested program of study in order to remain on track for graduation within four years. All students planning a major in biology are expected to finish their mathematics requirements by the end of their first year. Entering students who are confident in their quantitative skills are advised to take general chemistry (CHEM 110 ) and BIOL 100 and BIOL 101 in their first year. Students who have not had pre-calculus may consider taking CHEM 110 in their second year. BIOL 205 (or an equivalent course in statistics), BIOL 210 , BIOL 310 , and (for BS majors) 312 should be completed by the end of their junior year. The electives BIOL 235 and BIOL 218 /BIOL 219 are recommended for the junior or senior year. Most other electives are appropriate for students in their sophomore through senior years. BIOL 311 and BIOL 390 are capstone courses required in the senior year.