| Introduction
Biological Sciences Degree Programs Biotechnology Program |
Interdepartmental Major in Neuroscience
Medical Education Programs Cooperative Education Program |
The undergraduate programs in biology are designed to meet intellectual needs as well as to prepare students for subsequent professional or vocational training. Preprofessional students (medicine, physical therapy, dentistry, osteopathy, etc.) generally enroll as majors in the biological sciences. Special advisement for these students is available through the Health Sciences Advisement and Evaluation Committee, Room 117A Wolf Hall, telephone (302) 831-2282
Students interested in marine biology are encouraged to take advantage of course and research opportunities in the Department of Biological Sciences and the University's College of Marine Studies.
Courses at the 100-level are designed to serve students who do not choose to major in biology or other sciences. Most of these courses may be used to satisfy the Group D requirements of the College of Arts and Science, but may not be counted toward the credits required for graduation for students majoring or minoring in biological sciences. Students not majoring in biological sciences who have some academic maturity in the sciences or engineering and an interest in biology are advised to elect BISC 207 or 208, perhaps followed by other core courses or other biology courses appropriate to their professional interests.
During the freshman year, biological science majors for the B.A., B.S., and Biological Sciences Education degrees ordinarily take courses in biology, chemistry, English, foreign language, and mathematics through calculus. Students should consult their faculty advisors to select wisely from the variety of advanced courses and electives available to sophomores, juniors and seniors.
Many opportunities exist for research experience with a faculty member. In addition, an opportunity for teaching experience exists. Up to 4 credits of research or independent study (BISC 266, 366, 466, or 666) may be counted toward the 33 credits required for the majors in Biological Sciences or Biological Sciences Education. Some biology-related courses in other departments may be counted toward the major (limit 6 credits).
A grade of C- or better must be obtained in all biology courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the Biological Sciences B.A., B.S., and Biological Sciences Education degrees. Biology courses at the 100-level may not be counted toward these degrees. A grade of D (not D-0 or better must be obtained in chemistry, physics, and mathematical sciences courses required for the Biological Sciences majors and minor.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences with a concentration in biotechnology is a four-year program that emphasizes laboratory courses/experiences in various aspects of molecular, cellular, and physical biosciences. It is intended for students who hope to be employed in a laboratory setting after graduation and for those who will be continuing their education at the graduate level in a related discipline.
During the first two years at the University, students interested in biotechnology generally take the same courses as those pursuing a B.A. degree in biological sciences. At any time during these two years, students can declare interest in biotechnology; however, they are not admitted into the program until the fall semester of the third year. Students apply for admission in the spring of the sophomore year. Admission is limited to 10 students per class. A minimum grade-point index (GPI) of 2.5 is required for application.
Eligibility for admission to the junior year of the BBT program will be based on the following criteria:
An interdepartmental major between Biological Sciences and Psychology is designed for students with an interest in the interdisciplinary field of neuroscience. The major prepares students for graduate programs in neuroscience, neuropsychology, physiology, and pharmacology, and for positions in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. It also provides preparation for professional programs in medicine, physical therapy, and related areas.
In this interdepartmental major students first learn the fundamentals of biology and psychology and then concentrate on courses that examine the structure and function of the nervous system and its relationship to behavior. Detailed instructions regarding an interdepartmental major are available from the Departments or the Arts and Science Advisement Center.
The University participates in a cooperative medical education program with the Medical Center of Delaware and the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, sponsored by the Delaware Institute for Medical Education and Research. Under the terms of this program, up to twenty students who are Delaware residents will be accepted for admission to Jefferson Medical College. A portion of the clinical training of these students takes place in the Medical Center of Delaware. Information on application to this program may be obtained from the office of the Associate Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences.
The University of Delaware also participates with Jefferson Medical College in the Medical Scholars Program which permits selected students to begin their medical education while undergraduates at the University (see Medical Scholars Program).
Through the cooperation of area businesses, industry, and government agencies, students may integrate their academic study with practical work experience. Co-op positions are available during any semester, including winter and summer sessions, for academic credit. Students register for BISC 444 (1-9 credit hours). Credits earned in this pass/fail course count toward graduation but not toward the 33 credit hours needed for the major in biological sciences. Placements vary from part to full time and may be salaried or on a volunteer basis.
Information about this program may be obtained from the Career Services Center or the Biological Sciences Advisement Office (117A Wolf Hall, telephone (302) 831-2282.