The Biology Minor offers a wide range of benefits for students pursuing various career paths. Biology is a broad field that encompasses the study of living organisms, their structure, function, and evolution. The minor provides students with a foundation in basic biological concepts, scientific methodology, and laboratory techniques. This knowledge and skillset are applicable to many fields, including healthcare, education, research, policy, and environmental science.
A minor in biology also complements majors in other areas, such as business, law, politics, journalism, and engineering, by enhancing the student's understanding of the natural world and enabling them to make informed decisions in their chosen career path.
Policies
Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.
Candidates for the minor in biology must complete required coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.00 or better and must earn a grade of 'C' or better in both BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory.
Minor Requirements
Total credits: 18
Students should refer to the Admissions & Policies tab for specific policies related to this program.
Coursework
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 213 & BIOL 215 | Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 308 & BIOL 338 | Foundations of Ecology and Evolution and Foundations of Ecology and Evolution Laboratory (Mason Core) | 4 |
| or BIOL 300 | BioDiversity | |
| BIOL 311 & BIOL 313 | General Genetics and General Genetics Laboratory | 4 |
| Elective courses in biology to achieve at least 18 credits (one of which may be lower-level) | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 18 | |