Majors and Courses
Biology
Career opportunities for those who major in biology are numerous. Besides being one of the traditional preparatory fields for those pursuing careers as health care professionals, Biology is an excellent choice of major for those interested in secondary education, ecology, or the burgeoning genetic engineering industry. And, of course, the areas of academic and industrial research are open to those who pursue a Ph.D. in the discipline.
These course requirements should be considered a minimum program in biology. Students wishing to continue their education in biology-related graduate or professional school programs will need to supplement this basic curriculum with additional course work in the natural sciences. Suggested programs are available, and Keck Science faculty should be consulted for advice at the earliest possible opportunity.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS:
Biology 43,44, Introductory Biology (or both semesters of the AISS course)
Chemistry 14,15 Basic Principles of Chemistry (or 29 Advanced General Chem, or both semesters of the AISS course)
Chemistry 116,117 Organic Chemistry
Mathematics 30 Calculus I (should be taken before Physics)
Physics 30,31 General Physics (or 33,34 Principles of Physics)
(or both semesters of the AISS course)
6 Advanced courses in Biology (at least 3 with lab)
Biology 190L or 191 or 188L/190L or 189L/190L* One or two-semester Thesis in Biology
Major courses may only be substituted with written permission of the biology convener. Biochemistry, biophysics, and advanced courses in biology at HMC or Pomona may count towards the major with permission of the biology convener.
*In general, a one-semester thesis (190L), Senior Experimental Thesis, a laboratory or field investigation project where research is culminated and results are summarized in a written thesis and formal presentation; or a one-semester Senior Library Thesis (191), an extensive library research thesis required of all majors in Science who are not completing 188L/190L or 189L/190L; or students who wish to do a two-semester thesis normally take Biology 188L, Senior Research Thesis in Biology, in the Fall and Biology 190L, Senior Experimental Thesis in Biology, in the Spring; or Biology 189L, Senior Thesis Summer Research Project, in the Fall of the senior year, and Biology 190L, Senior Experimental Thesis in Biology, in the Fall or Spring of the senior year; this course may not be counted as one of the advanced biology electives.