Biology
The program in Biology covers a diverse array of subjects. Courses in the major are offered by two departments, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) and Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB). The program is organized in two areas of concentration, corresponding to the core interests of the two participating departments. One covers evolutionary and organismal biology, ecology, and computational methods of analysis of complex biological systems. The other covers molecular, cellular, and developmental biology, computational biology, genetics, immunology, and physiology, and offers interdisciplinary tracks in biotechnology and neurobiology. Electives may be chosen from either area of concentration. Students have the opportunity to carry out independent research, which may consist of laboratory or field work. Those who are particularly interested in research can elect a B.S. or an intensive B.S. degree, in which research occupies up to half of the senior year. Programs to study abroad that fulfill some Biology requirements are available. The program in Biology provides excellent preparation for medical school and the health professions as well as for a wide range of professional careers in the biological sciences, biotechnology, law, conservation, and science writing. |
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Prospective majors and other students who would like a thorough introduction to biology should take MCDB 120a, Principles of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, and E&EB 122b, Principles of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior. This two-term sequence provides a solid foundation in modern biological science.
The following courses also have no prerequisites and are open to freshmen:
- MCDB 105a or b, An Issues Approach to Biology
- E&EB 107a, Human Biology
- E&EB 109b, Immunology and Microorganisms
- E&EB 115a, Conservation Biology
- E&EB 118a, Human Genetic Variation and Evolution
- MCDB 150b, Global Problems of Population Growth
- E&EB 160a, Diversity of Life
- E&EB 171b, The Collections of the Peabody Museum
- E&EB 210a/MCDB 215a, Introduction to Statistics: Life Sciences
- E&EB 246b, Plant Diversity and Evolution
- E&EB 264a, Ichthyology
- E&EB 272b, Ornithology
Students with a score of 5 on the Advanced Placement (AP) test in biology or a score of 7 or above on the International Baccalaureate (IB) test may place out of MCDB 120a and E&EB 122b. Students with a score of 710 or higher on the SAT Biology M test or a score of 5 on the AP test in chemistry may place out of MCDB 120a but not E&EB 122b. In the fall, students should consult with their adviser or a faculty member in the Biology program for advice on which courses to take. Students planning to major in Biology will find that if they take MCDB 120a and E&EB 122b as well as chemistry courses during the freshman year they will have greater freedom in later years.
There will be a meeting in the fall for freshmen interested in the major. Additional information may be found on the EEB and MCDB Web sites.
