Major Course Sequence

Our Biology majors follow a diverse set of career paths after graduation from Transylvania University. In response to this, we have developed three Biology tracks (Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior (EEB); Molecular and Cellular Biology; and Biology (MCB)). All biology majors take four core biology courses (Integrated Concepts of Biology: Molecules and Cells, Integrated Concepts of Biology: Organisms and Ecosystems, Biologist’s Toolkit ½ credit, and Capstone in Biology ½ credit), at least 2 semesters of chemistry, and either calculus or statistics.  The additional 9 courses in the major are determined by the track the student chooses to follow. We recommend all first year students to complete the Integrated Concepts of Biology sequence (Bio 1204/6), which can be taken in any order, and begin the general chemistry sequence.  

In the sophomore year, students enroll in Biologist’s Toolkit (BIO 2042) which will prepare them to take upper-level courses in the major.  Students should also continue on allied course requirements and begin taking upper-level biology courses.

In the junior year, students should choose biology electives based on their declared track and in consultation with their advisors.  Students in the Biology and EEB tracks are encouraged to choose up to three courses in other natural science fields as electives in the major.  Students in the MCB track should complete the organic chemistry sequence.  

All biology students are encouraged to participate in research via independent study, summer research with a Transylvania faculty member, or through a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at another institution that may serve as the basis of their senior capstone project the following year.

In the senior year, students complete advanced biology coursework, enroll in Capstone in Biology and complete other allied courses.  Students who have completed an approved research experience will formally present the results of their work via poster or oral presentation and writing a scientific paper including a literature review.  Students who have not yet completed a research experience will propose an hypothesis can be explored via publicly available data sets, test the hypothesis with the available data, and present their work as an oral or poster presentation and a written scientific manuscript.

Recommended Sequence of Courses for Biology Major

Biology majors wishing to declare a minor in secondary education (for teaching certification) are advised to consult the director of education program as soon as possible.