About
Biology is the study of life. The earth is filled with an enormous variety of living organisms; therefore, an understanding of the basic biological processes common to all organisms is essential to understanding the world. In recent decades, great strides have been made in understanding important biological processes, particularly those at the molecular, cellular, and ecosystem levels. An understanding of biological systems depends, in part, on the principles of physics and chemistry; thus a firm background in the physical sciences is also important in the study of biology. For many, an undergraduate major in biology (Bachelor of Science (B.S. Degree)) serves as a basis for postgraduate study in the life sciences. School of Life Sciences graduates have gone on to advanced graduate study, leading to careers in college or university teaching, basic and applied research, and public health. Many have entered professional programs in medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry. Other graduates have gone directly into secondary (high school) science teaching, the biomedical industry, independent laboratory research, natural resources management, or environmental education.
The Biological Sciences undergraduate degree program aims to diversely train its students, enabling graduates to pursue careers or advanced degrees in life and health sciences, research, education, industry, or governmental work. Based on their individual interests, students may select from the following concentrations: Biotechnology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Comprehensive Biology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Education, Integrative Physiology, Microbiology, and Pre-Professional Studies. All biology undergraduate students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours. Each concentration may require specific upper division courses; therefore the number of upper division electives may vary across concentrations.
Available Options
-
Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology
-
Concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
-
Concentration in Integrative Physiology
-
Concentration in Microbiology
-
Concentration in Pre-Professional Studies
Accreditation
For information regarding accreditation at UNLV, please head over to Academic Program Accreditations.
Learning Outcomes
All students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences should be able to:
- Understand the nature of scientific knowledge.*
- Understand cell structures and functions.*
- Understand the physical nature of genetic information.*
- Understand that all organisms are genetically related, have evolved, and are evolving.*
- Understand the metabolic complexity of cells and organisms.
- Understand the complex interplay of how organisms respond to and interact with each other and their environment.
- Be able to effectively communicate complex biological concepts, orally and in writing.
- Be able to fulfill their professional goals.
Outcomes marked with an asterisk apply to students graduating with a minor in Biological Sciences.
Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Explain the interrelationship between chemistry and biology, including how physical and chemical laws influence the structure and function of intracellular components and macromolecules.
Concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Articulate in detail the interactions organisms have with each other and with nonliving components of the environment and how organisms and environments change over time.
Concentration in Integrative Physiology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Explain how cells and organisms acquire and process nutrients, transform energy, and maintain homeostasis in a variable environment to survive and reproduce.
Concentration in Microbiology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Explain the diversity and similarity of microbes, including their physiology, mechanisms of pathogenesis and host defenses, and unique ecology.
Concentration in Pre-Professional Studies
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Become competitive candidates for admission into professional schools.
Career Possibilities
- Careers118.53 KB
Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology
Concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Concentration in Pre-Professional Studies
Requirements
Biological Sciences (BS)
Biology is the study of life. The earth is filled with an enormous variety of living organisms; therefore, an understanding of the basic biological processes common to all organisms is essential to understanding the world. In recent decades, great strides have been made in understanding important biological processes, particularly those at the molecular, cellular, and ecosystem levels. An understanding of biological systems depends, in part, on the principles of physics and chemistry; thus a firm background in the physical sciences is also important in the study of biology. For many, a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology serves as a basis for postgraduate study in the life sciences. School of Life Sciences graduates have gone on to advanced graduate study, leading to careers in college or university teaching, basic and applied research, and public health. Many have entered professional programs in medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry. Other graduates have gone directly into secondary (high school) science teaching, the biomedical industry, independent laboratory research, natural resources management, or environmental education.
The BS in Biological Sciences undergraduate degree program aims to diversely train its students, enabling graduates to pursue careers or advanced degrees in life and health sciences, research, education, industry, or governmental work. Based on their individual interests, students may select from the following concentrations: Biotechnology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Comprehensive Biology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Education, Integrative Physiology, Microbiology, and Pre-Professional Studies. All biology undergraduate students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours. Each concentration may require specific upper division courses; therefore the number of upper division electives may vary across concentrations.
Please see the UNLV College of Sciences, School of Life Sciences web page for information about department programs, faculty and facilities. Degree worksheets and 4/5 year plan for the major are available on the UNLV Degrees Directory.
Available Options
- Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology
- Concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
- Concentration in Integrative Physiology
- Concentration in Microbiology
- Concentration in Pre-Professional Studies
Learning Outcomes
All students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences should be able to:
*Outcomes marked with an asterisk apply to students graduating with a minor in Biological Sciences.
1. Understand the nature of scientific knowledge. *
- Describe the differences between opinions, facts, and scientific theories.
- Appropriately utilize the scientific method within the laboratory environment.
- Apply their understanding of the scientific method to successfully design an experiment.
- Critically analyze scientific content presented both orally and in writing.
2. Understand cell structures and functions. *
- Explain the similarities and differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
- Explain the similarities and differences between plant and animal cells.
- Describe the structure and function(s) of common eukaryotic organelles (nucleus, ribosomes, rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, vesicles, lysosomes, mitochondria, chloroplasts, peroxisomes, vacuoles, and cytoskeleton).
- Diagram the structure of an animal cell membrane, including the phospholipid bilayer, cholesterol, proteins, and carbohydrates.
- Explain the functions of the cell membrane, including passive and active transport and communication/information processing.
3. Understand the physical nature of genetic information. *
- Describe the structure of DNA.
- Diagram the basic structure of a gene, including regulatory and coding sequences.
- Explain how genetic information is used in reproduction, including the processes of mitosis and meiosis.
- Explain how genetic information is utilized during transcription, translation, DNA replication, and cell division.
- Explain how genetic information can be changed through processes of mutation.
- Explain how epigenetic regulation of gene expression can occur.
4. Understand that all organisms are genetically related, have evolved, and are evolving. *
- Explain the relationship between genetic information, physical characteristics, and the environment.
- Provide a timeline of major evolutionary events describing the emergence of the main forms of life (prokaryotes, eukaryotes, multicellular life, fungi, plants, insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals).
- Articulate the mechanisms of evolution including mutation, selection, and speciation.
- Apply their understanding of evolutionary relationships to accurately interpret phylogenetic trees.
- Explain experimental techniques used to investigate evolution.
5. Understand the metabolic complexity of cells and organisms.
- Provide examples of diverse mechanisms used by cells/organisms to extract energy from the environment.
- Explain the reactions of energy transformation that occur in mitochondria, chloroplasts, microbes, and multicellular organisms.
- Provide examples of diverse mechanisms used by cells/organisms to synthesize biological molecules.
- Explain how cells/organisms regulate the internal environment.
6. Understand the complex interplay of how organisms respond to and interact with each other and their environment.
- Describe how interactions change as the scale of life transitions from cells to ecosystems.
- Articulate the different patterns of population growth and explain the environmental factors that underlie each pattern.
- Explain community structure and the various forms of biodiversity.
- Provide examples of the types of interactions that can occur between community members, including competition, predation, parasitism, coexistence, mutualism, and commensalism.
- Explain how communities can respond to disturbances.
- Discuss the interactions that occur between organisms and the nonliving components of their environment, including the role of biogeochemical cycling.
7. Effectively communicate complex biological concepts, orally and in writing.
- Effectively discuss individual biological concepts in short written format such as a two to four paragraph response.
- Effectively articulate the relationships between many biological concepts in an extended written format such as an eight to ten page paper.
- Effectively explain individual biological concepts in a ten to fifteen minute oral presentation.
- Effectively answer questions from the audience following an oral presentation.
- Summarize key points from a peer-reviewed journal article in a written report or during a group discussion.
8. Fulfill their professional goals.
Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Explain the interrelationship between chemistry and biology, including how physical and chemical laws influence the structure and function of intracellular components and macromolecules.
Concentration in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Articulate in detail the interactions organisms have with each other and with nonliving components of the environment and how organisms and environments change over time.
Concentration in Integrative Physiology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Explain how cells and organisms acquire and process nutrients, transform energy, and maintain homeostasis in a variable environment to survive and reproduce.
Concentration in Microbiology
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Explain the diversity and similarity of microbes, including their physiology, mechanisms of pathogenesis and host defenses, and unique ecology.
Concentration in Pre-Professional
In addition to the outcomes listed above, concentration specific outcomes are as follows:
- Become competitive candidates for admission into professional schools.
Admission
Admission Policies
Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.50
Prospective biology majors with a GPA less than 2.50, but at least 2.0, may be admitted on probationary status. A student placed on probation must meet with an advisor to design and agree upon a probationary course of study based on the student's previous progress and on established degree program requirements. This course of study must include at least 15 credits that apply toward a degree in the major, with a majority of the credits coming from courses in the college, unless all requirements within the college have been completed by the student. The advisor will place a memorandum outlining the course of study in the student's file. Students are expected to complete the probationary course of study within two consecutive semesters and one summer. Students who complete the probationary course of study within the allotted time with a cumulative GPA (for the course of study only) of at least 2.00 will be removed from probation.
Biological Sciences Major:
Course requirements:
Biological Sciences majors must complete a set of required 100-level science, math, and composition classes with a satisfactory grade before they can enroll in more advanced 300- and 400-level biology classes. In the first two semesters the typical student will complete the seven biology, chemistry, math, and composition courses listed below with a C or better (C- is not sufficient) as a prerequisite for enrollment in any upper division biology course. These courses, which satisfy university and science major requirements (22 credits), are typically taken in the freshman year:
- BIOL 190A,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 190L, andLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191A,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191LLoading from UNLV Catalog…
- CHEM 121A,Loading from UNLV Catalog…121LandLoading from UNLV Catalog…CHEM 122A,Loading from UNLV Catalog…122LLoading from UNLV Catalog…
- MATH 181orLoading from UNLV Catalog…MATH 127orLoading from UNLV Catalog…MATH 128Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- ENG 102orLoading from UNLV Catalog…ENG 114orLoading from UNLV Catalog…HON 100Loading from UNLV Catalog…
With satisfactory completion of these classes ("C" or better in each class), students will be able to enroll in 300- and 400-level biology classes, subject to any additional prerequisites listed in the course catalog.
If a student does not earn a "C" or better the first time they take a required course, it is expected that they will repeat the course one time and utilize available resources to improve their academic performance. Continuation as a biology major requires a C or better (C- is not sufficient) in each course (or equivalent transferred from another institution).
Transfer Policies
Transfer students must have a minimum GPA of 2.50. All students are required to meet with an advisor to determine course work that can be used to satisfy degree requirements. Biology, chemistry, physics and math transfer courses will be accepted to fill specific degree requirements only with a grade of C or better.
Although rare, it is possible for superior pre-professional students to gain admission to a professional school upon completion of 94 units of undergraduate work. Such students may, under certain circumstances, be awarded a baccalaureate degree from UNLV upon successfully completing one year of full-time study with courses equivalent to the School of Life Sciences major at the professional school. To apply for a degree after one year of professional school, students must have completed 94 units at UNLV with a GPA of 3.50 and meet university and college graduation requirements. Any student contemplating such a program must obtain approval from the departmental chair and college dean in advance of departure from UNLV.
Community College Articulation
The School of Life Sciences has course articulation agreements with several community colleges both within and outside Nevada. For specific information about transfer of credits from two-year institutions, students should seek advising about specific courses of study from the department.
Department Policies
Academic Policies
In addition to the General Education Core requirements, all study courses must include a minimum of 39 credits in the Biological Sciences and satisfy the specific requirements of one of the five concentration areas offered by the department.
In accord with UNLV requirements, at least 40 credits must be earned in upper-division-level courses. This requirement may be satisfied by selecting courses within and outside the School of Life Sciences.
To graduate with a degree in the biological sciences, a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 must be maintained for all courses in the major field (BIOL). All BIOL core courses taken (
Advising
Please see advising information at the UNLV College of Sciences Advising Center.
Accreditation
For information regarding accreditation at UNLV, please head over to Academic Program Accreditations.
University Graduation Requirements
Please see
for complete information.Biology (BS) Degree Requirements - Total: 120 Credits
General Education Requirements - Subtotal: 32-42 Credits
First-Year Seminar - Credits: 2-3
It is strongly recommended that students take
English Composition - Credits: 6
Second - Year Seminar - Credits: 3
Constitutions - Credits: 3-6
Distribution Requirement - Credits: 18
Please see
for more information.- Humanities and Fine Arts: 9 Credits
- Two courses 3 credits each from two different humanities areas - 6 credits
- One course in fine arts- 3 credits
- Social Science: 9 Credits
- One course each from three different fields.
- Life and Physical Sciences and Analytical Thinking:
- Automatically satisfied by Major requirements
Multicultural and International - Credits: 0-6
Multicultural, one 3 credit course required
International, one 3 credit course required
These courses may overlap with general education and major requirements. A single course may not meet the multicultural and international requirements simultaneously. Visit the Provost webpage for the list of approved Multicultural and International courses.
Major Requirement - BS in Biology - Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration - Subtotal: 78 Credits
(see notes 1-4 below)
- Biology Core Requirements - Credits: 20
- BIOL 190A - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 190L - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 191A - Introduction to Organismal Biology
- BIOL 191L - Introduction to Organismal Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 300 - Principles of Genetics
- or
- BIOL 304 - Molecular Genetics
- BIOL 351 - Microbiology
- BIOL 415 - Evolution
- Students with strong high school preparation in biology (honors or AP biology courses with lab or the equivalent) and who have achieved a score of 5 on the AP Biology exam may have either BIOL 190AorLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191Alectures waived, and the appropriate lab completed at UNLV (see the Advising Center before enrolling in classes).Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Other Required Courses - Credits: 34
- CHEM 121A - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 121L - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 122A - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 122L - General Chemistry Laboratory II
- CHEM 241 - Organic Chemistry I
- CHEM 241L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Lab I
- CHEM 242 - Organic Chemistry II
- CHEM 242L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Laboratory II
- CHEM 474 - Biochemistry I
- MATH 181 - Calculus I
- STAT 391 - Applied Statistics for Biological Sciences
- or
- STAT 491 - Statistics for Scientists I
- PHYS 151A - General Physics I
- PHYS 151L - General Physics I Lab
- PHYS 152A - General Physics II
- PHYS 152L - General Physics II Lab
- Recommended Course
- MATH 182 - Calculus II
- Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration - Credits: 24
- CHEM 475 - Biochemistry II
- A minimum of four courses from list below:
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 425 - Genomics
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 466 - Developmental Biology
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 478 - Genetics and Cell Biology of Cancer
- Remaining credits (to total of 24) selected from course focus lists A-C with a minimum of one course from each list A-C.
List A: Focus on Cell Stucture and Function
- BIOL 360 - Introduction to Biomathematics I
- BIOL 361 - Introduction to Biomathematics II
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 425 - Genomics
- BIOL 436 - Biometry
- BIOL 443 - Molecular Biotechnology
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- BIOL 458 - Stem Cells and Regeneration Biology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 466 - Developmental Biology
- BIOL 469 - RNA Biology
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 473 - Advanced Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 478 - Genetics and Cell Biology of Cancer
- BIOL 480 - Introduction to Biological Modeling
- BIOL 485 - Microbial Genetics
List B: Focus on Organismal Structure and Function
- BIOL 347 - Human Anatomy Lab
- BIOL 348 - Introduction to Human Anatomy
- BIOL 349 - Human Physiology Foundations
- BIOL 360 - Introduction to Biomathematics I
- BIOL 414 - Endocrinology
- BIOL 417 - Biochemical Adaptations
- BIOL 426 - Plant Anatomy
- BIOL 436 - Biometry
- BIOL 440 - Mammalian Physiology
- BIOL 442 - Principles of Plant Physiology with Laboratory
- BIOL 447 - Advanced Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIOL 451 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 455 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Biomechanics
- BIOL 463 - Genetics of Human Disease
- BIOL 468 - Histology
- BIOL 475 - Neurobiology
- BIOL 480 - Introduction to Biological Modeling
List C: Focus on Biological Diversity
- BIOL 301 - Fossil Record
- BIOL 305 - Introduction to Conservation Biology
- BIOL 320 - Invertebrate Zoology
- BIOL 341 - Principles of Ecology
- BIOL 360 - Introduction to Biomathematics I
- BIOL 403 - Restoration Ecology
- BIOL 412 - Molecular Evolution
- BIOL 413 - Introduction to Scientific Writing
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 427 - Bryology
- BIOL 432 - Herpetology
- BIOL 434 - Mammalogy
- BIOL 435 - Forest Ecology
- BIOL 436 - Biometry
- BIOL 437 - Entomology
- BIOL 438 - Soil Plant Water Relations in Arid Environments
- BIOL 441 - Field Ecology
- BIOL 444 - Principles of Plant Ecology
- BIOL 480 - Introduction to Biological Modeling
- BIOL 486 - Animal Behavior
- BIOL 487 - Principles of Systematics
- BIOL 490 - Biogeography
General Electives - Credits: 6-9
Notes
- It is strongly recommended that students interested in biomedicine or attending graduate school take additional appropriate upper-division biology courses and research units to meet their elective credit requirements.
- Up to 4 credits of BIOL 492may be used toward concentration total of 24 credits.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Up to 2 credits total of BIOL 494and/orLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 499may be used as electives to satisfy 120 credit total.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- At least 40 credits must be earned at the upper-division level (300 and above).
Total Credits: 120
Major Requirements - BS in Biology - Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Concentration - Subtotal: 78 Credits
(see note 1-4 below)
- Biology Core Requirements - Credits: 20
- BIOL 190A - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 190L - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 191A - Introduction to Organismal Biology
- BIOL 191L - Introduction to Organismal Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 300 - Principles of Genetics
- or
- BIOL 304 - Molecular Genetics
- BIOL 351 - Microbiology
- BIOL 415 - Evolution
- Students with strong high school preparation in biology (honors or AP biology courses with lab or the equivalent) and who have achieved a score of 5 on the AP Biology exam may have either BIOL 190AorLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191Alectures waived, and the appropriate lab completed at UNLV (see the Advising Center before enrolling in classes).Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Other Required Courses - Credits: 34
- CHEM 121A - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 121L - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 122A - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 122L - General Chemistry Laboratory II
- CHEM 241 - Organic Chemistry I
- CHEM 241L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Lab I
- CHEM 242 - Organic Chemistry II
- CHEM 242L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Laboratory II
- CHEM 474 - Biochemistry I
- MATH 181 - Calculus I
- STAT 391 - Applied Statistics for Biological Sciences
- or
- STAT 491 - Statistics for Scientists I
- PHYS 151A - General Physics I
- PHYS 151L - General Physics I Lab
- PHYS 152A - General Physics II
- PHYS 152L - General Physics II Lab
- Recommended Courses
- MATH 182 - Calculus II
- CHEM 475 - Biochemistry II
Biology - Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Requirements - Credits: 24
- BIOL 341 - Principles of Ecology
- A minimum of three courses from list below:
- BIOL 301 - Fossil Record
- BIOL 305 - Introduction to Conservation Biology
- BIOL 320 - Invertebrate Zoology
- BIOL 412 - Molecular Evolution
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 427 - Bryology
- BIOL 432 - Herpetology
- BIOL 434 - Mammalogy
- BIOL 438 - Soil Plant Water Relations in Arid Environments
- BIOL 441 - Field Ecology
- BIOL 444 - Principles of Plant Ecology
- BIOL 486 - Animal Behavior
- BIOL 487 - Principles of Systematics
- BIOL 490 - Biogeography
Remaining credits (to total of 24) selected from course focus lists A - C.
Overall minimum of one course from each list A - C
List A: Focus on Cell Structure and Function
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 425 - Genomics
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 466 - Developmental Biology
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 478 - Genetics and Cell Biology of Cancer
- BIOL 473 - Advanced Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 485 - Microbial Genetics
List B: Focus on Organismal Structure and Function
- BIOL 348 - Introduction to Human Anatomy
- BIOL 414 - Endocrinology
- BIOL 417 - Biochemical Adaptations
- BIOL 426 - Plant Anatomy
- BIOL 440 - Mammalian Physiology
- BIOL 442 - Principles of Plant Physiology with Laboratory
- BIOL 447 - Advanced Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIOL 451 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 455 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Biomechanics
- BIOL 468 - Histology
List C: Focus on Biological Diversity
- BIOL 301 - Fossil Record
- BIOL 305 - Introduction to Conservation Biology
- BIOL 320 - Invertebrate Zoology
- BIOL 341 - Principles of Ecology
- BIOL 412 - Molecular Evolution
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 427 - Bryology
- BIOL 432 - Herpetology
- BIOL 434 - Mammalogy
- BIOL 438 - Soil Plant Water Relations in Arid Environments
- BIOL 441 - Field Ecology
- BIOL 444 - Principles of Plant Ecology
- BIOL 486 - Animal Behavior
- BIOL 487 - Principles of Systematics
- BIOL 490 - Biogeography
General Electives - Credits: 6-9
Notes
- It is strongly recommended that students interested in biomedicine or attending graduate school take additional appropriate upper-division biology courses and research units to meet their elective credit requirements.
- Up to 4 credits of BIOL 492may be used toward concentration total of 24 credits.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Up to 2 credits total of BIOL 494and/orLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 499may be used as electives to satisfy 120 credit total.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- At least 40 credits must be earned at the upper-division level (300 and above).
Total Credits: 120
Major Requirements - BS in Biology - Integrative Physiology Concentration - Subtotal: 78 Credits
(see notes 1-4 below)
- Biology Core Requirements - Credits: 20
- BIOL 190A - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 190L - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 191A - Introduction to Organismal Biology
- BIOL 191L - Introduction to Organismal Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 300 - Principles of Genetics
- or
- BIOL 304 - Molecular Genetics
- BIOL 351 - Microbiology
- BIOL 415 - Evolution
- Students with strong high school preparation in biology (honors or AP biology courses with lab or the equivalent) and who have achieved a score of 5 on the AP Biology exam may have either BIOL 190AorLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191Alectures waived, and the appropriate lab completed at UNLV (see the Advising Center before enrolling in classes).Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Other Required Courses - Credits: 34
- CHEM 121A - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 121L - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 122A - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 122L - General Chemistry Laboratory II
- CHEM 241 - Organic Chemistry I
- CHEM 241L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Lab I
- CHEM 242 - Organic Chemistry II
- CHEM 242L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Laboratory II
- CHEM 474 - Biochemistry I
- MATH 181 - Calculus I
- STAT 391 - Applied Statistics for Biological Sciences
- or
- STAT 491 - Statistics for Scientists I
- PHYS 151A - General Physics I
- PHYS 151L - General Physics I Lab
- PHYS 152A - General Physics II
- PHYS 152L - General Physics II Lab
- Other Recommended Courses
- CHEM 475 - Biochemistry II
- MATH 182 - Calculus II
Integrative Physiology Requirements Credits: 24
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- Choose two courses from the following:
- BIOL 440 - Mammalian Physiology
- BIOL 442 - Principles of Plant Physiology with Laboratory
- BIOL 447 - Advanced Comparative Animal Physiology
- Remaining credits (to total of 24) selected from course focus lists A-C.
Overall minimum of one course from each list A-C
List A: Focus on Cell Structure and Function
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 425 - Genomics
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 466 - Developmental Biology
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 473 - Advanced Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 478 - Genetics and Cell Biology of Cancer
- BIOL 485 - Microbial Genetics
List B: Focus on Organismal Structure and Function
- BIOL 348 - Introduction to Human Anatomy
- BIOL 414 - Endocrinology
- BIOL 417 - Biochemical Adaptations
- BIOL 426 - Plant Anatomy
- BIOL 440 - Mammalian Physiology
- BIOL 442 - Principles of Plant Physiology with Laboratory
- BIOL 447 - Advanced Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIOL 451 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 455 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Biomechanics
- BIOL 468 - Histology
List C: Focus on Biological Diversity
- BIOL 301 - Fossil Record
- BIOL 305 - Introduction to Conservation Biology
- BIOL 320 - Invertebrate Zoology
- BIOL 341 - Principles of Ecology
- BIOL 412 - Molecular Evolution
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 427 - Bryology
- BIOL 432 - Herpetology
- BIOL 434 - Mammalogy
- BIOL 438 - Soil Plant Water Relations in Arid Environments
- BIOL 441 - Field Ecology
- BIOL 444 - Principles of Plant Ecology
- BIOL 486 - Animal Behavior
- BIOL 487 - Principles of Systematics
- BIOL 490 - Biogeography
General Electives - Credits: 6-9
Notes
- It is strongly recommended that students interested in biomedicine or attending graduate school take additional appropriate upper-division biology courses and research units to meet their elective credit requirements.
- Up to 4 credits of BIOL 492may be used toward concentration total of 24 credits.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Up to 2 credits total of BIOL 494and/orLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 499may be used as electives to satisfy 120 credit total.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- At least 40 credits must be earned at the upper-division level (300 and above).
Total Credits: 120
Major Requirements - BS in Biology - Microbiology Concentration - Subtotal: 78 Credits
(see notes 1-4 below)
- BIOL 190A - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 190L - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 191A - Introduction to Organismal Biology
- BIOL 191L - Introduction to Organismal Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 300 - Principles of Genetics
- or
- BIOL 304 - Molecular Genetics
- BIOL 351 - Microbiology
- BIOL 415 - Evolution
- Students with strong high school preparation in biology (honors or AP biology courses with lab or the equivalent) and who have achieved a score of 5 on the AP Biology exam may have either BIOL 190AorLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191Alectures waived, and the appropriate lab completed at UNLV (see the Advising Center before enrolling in classes).Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Other Required Courses - Credits: 34
- CHEM 121A - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 121L - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 122A - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 122L - General Chemistry Laboratory II
- CHEM 241 - Organic Chemistry I
- CHEM 241L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Lab I
- CHEM 242 - Organic Chemistry II
- CHEM 242L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Laboratory II
- CHEM 474 - Biochemistry I
- MATH 181 - Calculus I
- STAT 391 - Applied Statistics for Biological Sciences
- or
- STAT 491 - Statistics for Scientists I
- PHYS 151A - General Physics I
- PHYS 151L - General Physics I Lab
- PHYS 152A - General Physics II
- PHYS 152L - General Physics II Lab
- Other Recommended Courses
- CHEM 475 - Biochemistry II
- MATH 182 - Calculus II
Microbiology Concentration - Credits: 24
A minimum of three courses from list below:
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 485 - Microbial Genetics
- Remaining credits (to total of 24) selected from course focus lists A - C.
Overall minimum of one course from each list A - C
List A: Focus on Cell Structure and Function
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 425 - Genomics
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 466 - Developmental Biology
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 473 - Advanced Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 478 - Genetics and Cell Biology of Cancer
- BIOL 485 - Microbial Genetics
List B: Focus on Organismal Structure and Function
- BIOL 348 - Introduction to Human Anatomy
- BIOL 414 - Endocrinology
- BIOL 417 - Biochemical Adaptations
- BIOL 426 - Plant Anatomy
- BIOL 440 - Mammalian Physiology
- BIOL 442 - Principles of Plant Physiology with Laboratory
- BIOL 447 - Advanced Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 451 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory
- BIOL 455 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Biomechanics
- BIOL 468 - Histology
List C: Focus on Biological Diversity
- BIOL 301 - Fossil Record
- BIOL 305 - Introduction to Conservation Biology
- BIOL 320 - Invertebrate Zoology
- BIOL 341 - Principles of Ecology
- BIOL 412 - Molecular Evolution
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 427 - Bryology
- BIOL 438 - Soil Plant Water Relations in Arid Environments
- BIOL 432 - Herpetology
- BIOL 434 - Mammalogy
- BIOL 441 - Field Ecology
- BIOL 444 - Principles of Plant Ecology
- BIOL 486 - Animal Behavior
- BIOL 487 - Principles of Systematics
General Electives - Credits: 6-9
Notes
- It is strongly recommended that students interested in biomedicine or attending graduate school take additional appropriate upper-division biology courses and research units to meet their elective credit requirements.
- Up to 4 credits of BIOL 492may be used toward concentration total of 24 credits.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- Up to 2 credits total of BIOL 494and/orLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 499may be used as electives to satisfy 120 credit total.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- At least 40 credits must be earned at the upper-division level (300 and above).
Total Credits: 120
Major Requirement - BS in Pre-Professional Concentration - Subtotal: 76 Credits
(see notes 1-4 below)
- Biology Core Requirements - Credits: 20
- BIOL 190A - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 190L - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 191A - Introduction to Organismal Biology
- BIOL 191L - Introduction to Organismal Biology Laboratory
- BIOL 300 - Principles of Genetics
- or
- BIOL 304 - Molecular Genetics
- BIOL 351 - Microbiology
- BIOL 415 - Evolution
Students with strong high school preparation in biology (honors or AP biology courses with lab or the equivalent) and who have achieved a score of 5 on the AP Biology exam may have either
BIOL 190AorLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 191Alectures waived and the appropriate lab completed at UNLV (see the Advising Center before enrolling in classes).Loading from UNLV Catalog…- Other Required Courses - Credits: 36
- CHEM 121A - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 121L - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 122A - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 122L - General Chemistry Laboratory II
- CHEM 241 - Organic Chemistry I
- CHEM 241L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Lab I
- CHEM 242 - Organic Chemistry II
- CHEM 242L - Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Laboratory II
- CHEM 474 - Biochemistry I
- CHEM 475 - Biochemistry II
- MATH 181 - Calculus I
- STAT 391 - Applied Statistics for Biological Sciences
- or
- STAT 491 - Statistics for Scientists I
- PHYS 151A - General Physics I
- PHYS 151L - General Physics I Lab
- PHYS 152A - General Physics II
- PHYS 152L - General Physics II Lab
- Recommended Course
- MATH 182 - Calculus II
Pre-Professional Requirements - Credits: 20
A minimum of six courses from focus course lists A, B, and C (total of 20 credits) selected from course focus lists A - C.
Overall minimum of one course from each list A - C
List A: Focus on Cell Structure and Function
- BIOL 405 - Molecular Biology
- BIOL 409 - Virology
- BIOL 425 - Genomics
- BIOL 445 - Cell Physiology
- BIOL 460 - Microbial Physiology
- BIOL 464 - Bacterial Pathogenesis
- BIOL 466 - Developmental Biology
- BIOL 470 - Topics in Applied Microbiology
- BIOL 473 - Advanced Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
- BIOL 478 - Genetics and Cell Biology of Cancer
List B: Focus on Organismal Structure and Function
- BIOL 348 - Introduction to Human Anatomy
- BIOL 414 - Endocrinology
- BIOL 417 - Biochemical Adaptations
- BIOL 426 - Plant Anatomy
- BIOL 453 - Immunology
- BIOL 440 - Mammalian Physiology
- BIOL 442 - Principles of Plant Physiology with Laboratory
- BIOL 447 - Advanced Comparative Animal Physiology
- BIOL 451 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy Laboratory
- BIOL 455 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Biomechanics
- BIOL 468 - Histology
List C: Focus on Biological Diversity
- BIOL 301 - Fossil Record
- BIOL 305 - Introduction to Conservation Biology
- BIOL 320 - Invertebrate Zoology
- BIOL 341 - Principles of Ecology
- BIOL 412 - Molecular Evolution
- BIOL 418 - Microbial Ecology
- BIOL 427 - Bryology
- BIOL 432 - Herpetology
- BIOL 434 - Mammalogy
- BIOL 438 - Soil Plant Water Relations in Arid Environments
- BIOL 441 - Field Ecology
- BIOL 444 - Principles of Plant Ecology
- BIOL 486 - Animal Behavior
- BIOL 487 - Principles of Systematics
- BIOL 490 - Biogeography
General Electives - Credits: 2-12
Total Credits: 120
Notes
- It is strongly recommended that students interested in biomedicine or attending graduate school take additional appropriate upper-division biology courses and research units to meet their elective credit requirements.
- Up to 2 credits total of BIOL 492,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 494,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 496and/orLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 499may be used to satisfy concentration of 20 credits.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- An additional 2 credits of BIOL 492,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 494,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 496, and/orLoading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 499may be used a electives to satisfy 120 credit total.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
- At least 40 credits must be earned at the upper-division level (300 and above).
- BIOL 351,Loading from UNLV Catalog…BIOL 415are milestone courses for Biological Sciences B.S.Loading from UNLV Catalog…
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School of Life Sciences
Life sciences involves studies of living organisms and their life processes, including their evolution and relationships with other living organisms and our planet. The courses and programs offered by the School of Life Sciences are designed for those students pursuing professional careers in medicine, science, and science education.
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College of Sciences
The School of Life Sciences offers programs that meet the needs of students intending to enter the workforce or pursue advanced training in the sciences, medicine, and other professional and technical fields. We provide a well-rounded foundation in natural, physical, and mathematical sciences that can set students up for successful careers and professional programs.