curriculum and Graduation plans

Students can choose between taking courses for the major’s General Biology (GENB) track, or specialize in another area of the Biological Sciences. For descriptions of each specialization area, see about the Biological Sciences major.

Create an individualized Graduation plan

Students are recommended to consult with the college’s CMNS Peer Mentors to create and revise their individualized graduation plan, which will include the requirements for their major, specialization, and any relevant coursework for academic minors or special programs. The Peer Mentors can meet with Terps in 1317 Symons Hall, Monday-Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (no appointment needed!).

curriculum + 4-Year Plans [for terps under gened]

curriculum + 4-Year Plans [for terps under core]

See Curriculum and Graduation Plans for Terps under CORE.

Frequently asked Questions

What courses satisfy the lower-level math requirement?

  • MATH135 (Discrete Mathematics for Life Sciences) and MATH136 (Calculus for Life Sciences). This is the preferred sequence for students who do not have MATH140 and MATH141.

  • MATH140 (Calculus 1) and MATH141 (Calculus 2)

  • MATH140 and MATH135

  • MATH130 (Calculus 1 for Life Sciences) and MATH131 (Calculus 2 for Life Sciences) (both courses discontinued)

  • MATH130 and MATH135, for students who took MATH130 before it was discontinued, but have not completed MATH131

  • Other course combinations are possible in unusual circumstances and require approval by an advisor.

  • Students cannot use MATH120, MATH121, MATH220, or MATH221 towards the Biological Sciences major.

Do I need to take PHYS131 and PHYS132?

The PHYS131/132 requirement is effective Fall 2013. If you completed PHYS121 before Fall 2013, you may complete the physics sequence by taking PHYS122. Any student who did not start on the completion of the Physics requirement before Fall 2013 must take PHYS131 and PHYS132 or a more advanced physics sequence. Questions about transfer and AP/IB credit should be directed to the Biological Sciences Undergraduate Program Office at (301) 405-6892.