The Biology Major
Professor: David Thomas
Assistant Professors: Alexander Beeser, Maryline Bossus, and Cassia C. Oliveira
Biology is the study of life in all of its abundance, variety, and complexity. Students in the biology major gain a broad knowledge of biological fact and theory, from the molecular to the ecosystem level. They develop their abilities to observe, analyze, and solve problems involving living systems. Both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees are available in biology. The B.S. degree is designed primarily for students interested in the health professions, a graduate degree, or employment in biology related fields.
Summary of Requirements for a Major in Biology Leading to a Bachelor of Science Degree
BIO 110 & 112 Principles of Biology I* & II ......................................................... 8 credits
BIO 250 Cell Biology .............................................................................................. 4 credits
BIO 252 Genetics.................................................................................................... 4 credits
BIO 340 Ecology ..................................................................................................... 4 credits
Three biology electives** ....................................................................................... 11-12 credits
CHM 105 Introduction to Chemistry*................................................................... 4 credits***
CHM 110 & 120 General Chemistry I* & II......................................................... 8 credits
CHM 210 & 220 Organic Chemistry I & II........................................................... 8 credits
MTH 110 Elementary Functions*.......................................................................... 3 credits
PHY 210, 211 & 220, 221 General Physics I* & II
OR PHY 240, 241 & 250, 251 Fundamentals of Physics I* & II........................... 8 credits Total...............................................................................................................58-63 credits
Summary of Requirements for a Major in Biology Leading to a Bachelor of Arts Degree
BIO 110 & 112 Principles of Biology I* & II ......................................................... 8 credits
BIO 250 Cell Biology .............................................................................................. 4 credits
BIO 252 Genetics.................................................................................................... 4 credits
BIO 340 Ecology ..................................................................................................... 4 credits
Three biology electives** ....................................................................................... 11-12 credits
CHM 105 Introduction to Chemistry*................................................................... 4 credits***
CHM 110 & 120 General Chemistry I* & II......................................................... 8 credits
MTH 110 Elementary Functions*.......................................................................... 3 credits
PHY 210, 211 & 220, 221 General Physics I* & II
OR PHY 240, 241 & 250, 251 Fundamentals of Physics I* & II........................... 8 credits Total...............................................................................................................50-55 credits
*Students may use this course to satisfy core requirements.
**Courses must be upper division (300-400 level). At least two chosen electives must be 4-credit courses; one may be a 3-credit course. BIO 480 may not be used.
***This course is not required for students who enter Lyon College with a score of 25 or better on the ACT mathematics section (or equivalent SAT score) and a grade of “C” or better in high school chemistry.