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Biology Major (BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Biology degree is intended as preparation for scientific careers in biology or in the health professions.

Requirements & Checklist

At the undergraduate level, the Department of Biology at Emory offers a diverse and extensive curriculum designed to expose students to cutting-edge theory and practice in biology.  Successful completion of the introductory biology sequence prepares students for advanced study in cell and molecular biology, physiology, ecology and evolutionary biology, and other biological subdisciplines.  Opportunities are provided for supervised laboratory experiences, seminars, directed study, and research.  Our curriculum is designed to provide the biological background necessary for post-baccalaureate training at the graduate or professional level.
 
After completing a Biology major, students will be able to:
  1. Explain and apply major biological concepts and connect concepts from the biological and physical sciences.
  2. Develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and quantitative skills to address biological questions.
  3. Be able to pursue a successful career or post-baccalaureate education goals.

Declaring a Major

As a student, you are required to choose a major by the end of your second year.  However, you may do so as early as the second semester of your freshman year. 
 
 
To declare a major in Biology:
  •  Fill out and submit the online Declaration of Major/Minor (DOM) form (found on the Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE) website.
  • Ms. Barbara Shannon will contact you via e-mail to provide you with your Biology faculty advisor assignment and additional Biology major information.

Notes

  1. The Declaration of Major/Minor form is accessible in OPUS under the Course Planning and Enrollment Tile.
  2. The OPUS form will display your current academic plan, and you may request to add or remove a major, minor, or concentration from that page.
  3. Your request is subject to department review. Within 24 hours, you will receive an automated email with guidance on contacting the appropriate undergraduate staff member for next steps. 
  4. If you have any questions about the form or the process, please contact OUE.Records@emory.edu.

Suggested Course Schedule

These are general plans intended to help you discuss your individual schedule with your academic advisor.
There are a number of other factors that may affect your plan, such as AP Math or AP Chemistry credit, premed/prehealth career plans, summer plans, and the quality of your high school Biology class.