choose your specialization
Within the Biological Sciences major, students can choose to pursue the program’s General Biology (GENB) track, or specialize in a different area. All Biological Sciences majors, regardless of specialization, must fulfill the same CORE/Gen Ed, basic program, and supporting course requirements.
The difference between the specializations is the courses that become required for the major’s Advanced Program (typically completed by direct-admit freshmen, during their Junior, Senior year). All BSCI Terps—regardless of specialization—will earn a Maryland degree that reads Biological Sciences upon their completing all of the necessary degree requirements.
Change your mind? Want to switch?
Current BSCI Terps who would like to switch their specialization can initiate this change with a Change of Major Request through TerpEngage at go.umd.edu/majorchange. Your request will be reviewed and become effective in the subsequent academic semester. A major change is not complete until the CMNS Dean's Office has approved it.
Non-majors who are interested in becoming a BSCI Terp, please refer to this webpage for your Switch to The BSCI Major.
General Biology (GENB)
GENB provides a strong but flexible curriculum for students with either broader or more specific interests than any of the areas above. The structure of GENB will require that students take courses across the biological levels of organization, but within those constraints they may choose to study one taxon or area in more depth. This specialization will specifically prepare students for graduate study in a broad range of biological fields, secondary school teaching, science writing, professional schools, biology – business related careers, and basic or applied research.
GENB Curriculum Sheet-Gen Ed
GENB Sample 4-year Plan-Gen Ed
CAREERS: General Biology [PDF]
Cell Biology and Genetics (CEBG)
CEBG allows students to focus their studies on the molecular and cellular processes that support all life. This specialization will specifically prepare students for graduate study in a wide variety of modern fields, as well as for further study and careers in medicine, dentistry, forensic science, genetic counseling, or work in the biotechnology industry.
CEBG Curriculum Sheet-Gen Ed
CEBG Sample 4-year Plan-Gen Ed
CAREERS: Cell Biology and Genetics [PDF]
Ecology and Evolution (ECEV)
ECEV brings students to the study of organisms interacting with their environment in more complex biological systems. This specialization will specifically prepare students for graduate study, basic and applied research, and as basic preparation for careers in areas such as conservation, environmental biology, veterinary medicine, employment in zoos, or work in science policy. For more information on the specialization, visit the ECEV section of the Biology Department website.
ECEV Curriculum Sheet-Gen Ed
ECEV Sample 4-year Plan-Gen Ed
CAREERS: Ecology and Evolution [PDF]
Microbiology (MICB)
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms including their distribution and role in the environment, their relationship to other living organisms in health and disease, and their use in biotechnology. An understanding of the basic nature and molecular structure of microbes has contributed to the advancement of modern molecular biology. This specialization prepares students for graduate study; entry into professional schools (Medicine, Dental, and Law); careers in public health, forensic science, biotechnology, and the pharmaceutical industry: as well as jobs in research labs and employment in government agencies developing public policy and/or overseeing/enforcing government regulations relative to food, drugs, and infectious disease of animals, plants and humans.
MICB Curriculum Sheet-Gen Ed
MICB Sample 4-year Plan-Gen Ed
CAREERS: Microbiology [PDF]
Physiology and Neurobiology (PHNB)
PHNB provides a foundation in the molecular and cellular processes of life, but allows students to study how these processes are organized into systems in whole organisms. This specialization will specifically prepare students for graduate study, medicine, dentistry, allied health fields, and basic or applied research.
PHNB Curriculum Sheet-Gen Ed
PHNB Sample 4-year Plan-Gen Ed
CAREERS: Physiology and Neurobiology [PDF]
Individualized Studies (BIVS)
BIVS is a unique specialization area. It allows students to combine the rigors of a Life Sciences degree with interdisciplinary studies. BIVS students can integrate studies in biology with fields such as mathematics, physics, linguistics, or psychology. BIVS is reserved for students with truly interdisciplinary interests, and requires a written plan of study approved by the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Academic Programs.
Email Dr. Joelle Presson at jpresson@umd.edu to learn more.
