Division of Biological Sciences

Students may receive either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in biological sciences. Both are designed to prepare students for graduate study, professional schools, or direct entry into the workplace. Both require general education courses in behavioral sciences, social sciences, and the humanities. Both also require a foreign language. The main difference is that the BS degree requires more credit hours in biology, chemistry, physics, and math than the BA degree.

The specific requirements of the degree are outlined in the Division of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Advising Handbook as well as in the following graduation plans:

The Division also partners with the College of Education to provide a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Biology that leads to certification in 9-12th grades in the state of Missouri.

Information for Freshman

Students majoring in biological sciences are encouraged to complete the following introductory courses their first year at Mizzou:

• Biological Systems (BIO_SC 1500) with Lab: This course covers basic concepts and principles of the structure and function of living systems, from cells to populations. This is a foundation course for students who are intending to complete a three-semester sequence that also includes genetics and cell biology. (Prerequisites: Math 1100 and high school chemistry)
• College Algebra (MATH 1100): This course reviews exponents, order of operations, factoring, and simplifying polynomial, rational, and radical expressions. Topics covered include linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential, and logarithmic functions and their applications. Students will solve equations involving these functions, and systems of linear equations in two variables, as well as inequalities. (Prerequisite: Mathematics 0110 or a sufficient score on the ALEKS exam)
• CHEM 1310 or CHEM 1320: CHEM 1310 is an introductory course for students with little or no high school background in chemistry. The course covers fundamental principles, stoichiometry, solutions, basic atomic structure, and gases. (Prerequisite: MATH 1100 concurrently). CHEM 1320 is recommended for students who have had some chemistry in high school. The course covers thermochemistry, periodic properties, bonding, liquids, and solids. The course satisfies a laboratory science requirement. Students with good high school backgrounds in chemistry should start with this course. (Prerequisites: Advanced Placement or grade of C- or better in Chemistry 1310; Mathematics 1100 or equivalent)

Advanced Placement: Students can receive credit for BIO_SC 1500 with an AP score of 4 or higher. However, the Advising Office does not encourage freshman to take BIO_SC 2200 (General Genetics) despite credit for BIO_SC 1500. Student can receive credit for CHEM 1310 and 1320 with an AP score of 3 and credit for CHEM 1310, 1320, and 1330 with an AP score of 4.

ALEKS Exam: To enroll in MATH 1100, students must score at least a 35% on the ALEKS exam. The ALEKS exam is an online assessment tool that zeros in on the strengths and weaknesses of a student’s mathematical knowledge for an appropriate level for course placement. The assessment is free for the first time, and $5.00 for each subsequent attempt. ALEKS scores are valid for 11 months. The ALEKS exam can be taken online from MU Math Placement and should be completed prior to attending Summer Welcome.

For More Information

Contact or visit the Undergraduate Advising Office
Tucker Hall, Room 3
Phone: 573-882-4068