Biology Major/Specialization in Humanities for Teaching

Biology is the study of life, emphasizing the interrelationship of structures, organisms, and processes ranging from molecular to global. Biology majors study these interrelationships through a wide array of fascinating courses and research with faculty in the department who specialize in fields of genetics, molecular biology, animal and plant physiology, microbiology, virology, neurobiology, bioinformatics, evolution and ecology.

Seattle University is ideally situated for all of these fields. Seattle is a center for biotechnology and biomedical research, providing students the opportunity to work in front-line research and clinical labs. Nearby mountain ranges, old growth forest, lakes and rivers, as well as the marine environments of Puget Sound and the open coast serve as living laboratories. The Biology major appeals to students seeking to develop their analytical skills and embrace their curiosity. Many select this training as the most appropriate preparation for acceptance to schools in medicine, dentistry, etc., while others enter graduate programs leading to research careers. Some create interesting and unique careers by combining their Biology major with other interests, like writing, photography or law.

Requirements

In order to earn the bachelor of arts major in biology degree with a specialization in humanities for teaching, students must complete a minimum of 180 quarter credits with a cumulative grade point average of 2.50 and major/department grade point average of 2.00, including the following:

I. Core Curriculum Requirements

II. Major Requirements

48 total credits in biology, including:

BIOL 161 - Biology I: Molecular and Cellular Biology 4
BIOL 171 - Biology I Lab
BIOL 162 - Biology II: Evolution and Ecology 4
BIOL 172 - Biology Lab II 1
BIOL 163 - Biology III: Physiology & Development 4
BIOL 173 - Biology III Lab 1
BIOL 240 - Genetics 5
BIOL 470 - General Ecology 5
BIOL Elective (approved by department) (5)

Choose one of the following four courses:

Choose one of the following three courses:

Choose one of the following two courses:

Senior Synthesis:

III. Other Major Department Requirements

17 credits in chemistry, including:

CHEM 260 - Laboratory Safety 2
Science elective (approved by department) (5)

15 credits in general chemistry, typically:

CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I 4
CHEM 131 - General Chemistry Lab I 1
CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II 4
CHEM 132 - General Chemistry Lab II 1
CHEM 123 - General Chemistry III 4
CHEM 133 - General Chemistry Lab III 1
Other courses with approval of the Biology Department

Choose an option: (5 to 10)

Option a:

MATH 131 - Calculus for Life Sciences 5

Option b:

MATH 134 - Calculus I 5

Option c:

NOTE:

At least 10 credits of the 48 non-senior synthesis biology course credits must be from 300 or 400-level courses (see course offerings ). Some of the course choices may require prerequisites beyond the minimal degree requirements. For a secondary endorsement in general science, 5 credits of earth science and 5 credits PHYS 105 are required and will satisfy the science elective.