UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
Biology Major
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 41 credits in Biology requiredCredit Requirement
- Emphasis on scientific method and inquiry-based learningLearning Approach
- Opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty mentorsResearch Experience
- Internship opportunities for career experience (BIOL 499)Internships
- Service learning projects available (BIOL 000)Service Learning
- Potential for Honors in Biology with thesis defenseHonors Program
The Biology Major at the University of Mary Washington leads to a Bachelor of Science degree, preparing students for diverse careers in life sciences research, teaching, and biotechnology. Many graduates continue their education in specialized fields such as cellular and molecular biology, bioinformatics, physiology, immunology, entomology, microbiology, ecology, and environmental engineering. The program emphasizes the scientific method through inquiry-based learning, offering a solid foundation in cell and molecular biology, organismal biology, and ecology. Elective courses allow students to explore specific interests, while laboratory and field experiences enhance practical skills in scientific methodology, experimental techniques, and quantitative analysis.
Curriculum
The Biology Major requires 41 credits in Biology, including core courses and electives. Students are advised to complete foundational biology and chemistry courses in their first year, and core biology courses in their second year. A minimum grade of C- is required in most prerequisite BIOL courses and core courses to graduate.
- Year 1
- Phage Hunters II or Organism Function and DiversityBIOL 126 or 132
- General Chemistry ICHEM 111
- General Chemistry IICHEM 112
- Year 2
- Introduction to Ecology and EvolutionBIOL 210
- Biostatistics and Research DesignBIOL 260
- Cellular BiologyBIOL 340
- General GeneticsBIOL 341
- Ongoing
- One major elective course designated Research Intensive (RI)BIOL RI Elective
- One additional upper-level major elective course with a laboratory componentBIOL Lab Elective
- SeminarBIOL 451
Careers
The Biology Major provides a strong foundation for a wide range of career paths in the life sciences. Graduates are well-prepared for employment or further academic pursuits.
- Life Sciences Researcher
- Teacher
- Biotechnology Professional
- Cellular and Molecular Biologist
- Bioinformatician
- Physiologist
- Immunologist
- Entomologist
- Microbiologist
- Ecologist
- Environmental Engineer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Biology Major?
- Applicants must have successfully completed secondary education, typically with a High School Diploma or equivalent. For the core curriculum, specific prerequisite courses include BIOL 121, 132, or BIOL 125, 126, and CHEM 111, 112.
- How do international students apply for the Biology Major?
- International students should visit the University of Mary Washington's Admissions website to review requirements, submit an online application, provide official transcripts, English proficiency scores, and financial documentation. The application period typically opens in late summer/early fall for the following academic year.
- Are there scholarships available for international students in the Biology Major?
- Yes, merit-based and departmental scholarships are available through the Department of Biological Sciences. Information on specific awards and application procedures can be found on the department's Awards & Scholarships page.
- What career paths can I pursue with a Biology Major?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Life Sciences Researcher, Teacher, Biotechnology Professional, or Bioinformatician. Many also pursue further education in specialized fields like cellular and molecular biology, ecology, or environmental engineering.
- What kind of practical experience is offered in the program?
- The program emphasizes hands-on experience through individual undergraduate research projects, the UMW Summer Science Institute, and internships (BIOL 499). Students also engage in laboratory and field experiences to enhance practical skills.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentSuccessful completion of secondary education is required for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Biology program.
Specific prerequisite courses for the biology major include BIOL 121, 132, or BIOL 125, 126, and CHEM 111, 112 for the core curriculum. Core courses BIOL 210, 260, 340, and 341 are prerequisites for various upper-level courses. A C- or better is required in most BIOL prerequisite and core courses to graduate.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available
Tuition (home)Information not available
LivingInformation not available
Tuition and living cost information specific to international students is not provided on the program page. Prospective students should refer to the university's general admissions and financial aid pages for detailed cost information.
How to apply
1. Review Admissions RequirementsVisit the University of Mary Washington's Admissions website to review the specific requirements for undergraduate international applicants. This includes academic prerequisites, standardized tests, and English proficiency requirements.
2. Complete the ApplicationSubmit the online application for admission. This usually involves filling out a common application form and providing personal, academic, and extracurricular information.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsProvide all required documents, which typically include official transcripts, standardized test scores (e.g., SAT/ACT if required), English proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.
4. Financial DocumentationInternational applicants often need to demonstrate financial support to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. This may involve submitting a Declaration of Finances form and bank statements.
5. Receive Admission DecisionAfter the application is reviewed, the university will notify the applicant of their admission decision.
6. EnrollmentIf admitted, follow the instructions provided to confirm enrollment, pay any required deposits, and prepare for your arrival at UMW. This may include obtaining a student visa.
Scholarships
Awards & ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
Information not available
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Biology Major?
+
Applicants must have successfully completed secondary education, typically with a High School Diploma or equivalent. For the core curriculum, specific prerequisite courses include BIOL 121, 132, or BIOL 125, 126, and CHEM 111, 112.
How do international students apply for the Biology Major?
+
International students should visit the University of Mary Washington's Admissions website to review requirements, submit an online application, provide official transcripts, English proficiency scores, and financial documentation. The application period typically opens in late summer/early fall for the following academic year.
Are there scholarships available for international students in the Biology Major?
+
Yes, merit-based and departmental scholarships are available through the Department of Biological Sciences. Information on specific awards and application procedures can be found on the department's Awards & Scholarships page.
What career paths can I pursue with a Biology Major?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Life Sciences Researcher, Teacher, Biotechnology Professional, or Bioinformatician. Many also pursue further education in specialized fields like cellular and molecular biology, ecology, or environmental engineering.
What kind of practical experience is offered in the program?
+
The program emphasizes hands-on experience through individual undergraduate research projects, the UMW Summer Science Institute, and internships (BIOL 499). Students also engage in laboratory and field experiences to enhance practical skills.