Biological Sciences Department

Biological Sciences: BS, MS

Biology, the study of life, is one of the most diverse and varied fields of study at the University. As a biological sciences major, you will study the structure, function and tremendous diversity of living organisms - microorganisms, plants, fungi, and animals - in a hands-on environment with laboratory and field experiences using modern scientific equipment. The program is based on a common core of physiology, genetics, ecology, anatomy, classification, and morphology of living organisms. You will select a concentration that will prepare you for graduate or professional school (masters and Ph.D programs and schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Physical Therapy, or Veterinary medicine), or for careers in a variety of areas, including teaching, biotechnology, public health, plant pathology, genetic engineering.

Ecology and Systematic Biology:

The Ecology and Systematic Biology major will no longer be available as of Fall 2005, however the concentrations in the major will be available via the Biological Sciences degree. If you are interested in this field, apply under the Biological Sciences major.

Microbiology: BS

Microbiology involves the study of all microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and protozoa. As a microbiology major you will study the structure of microorganisms, how they function, and their interactions with each other, human beings and other forms of life. Microbiology is a diverse field. After learning the basics, you will select a career track in an area such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food, dairy, sanitary and industrial microbiology, and ecology and public health microbiology. This is a hands-on laboratory based program, and you can also participate in exciting and ongoing research programs in bioremediation, food safety, bacterial genomics, fungal genetics, microbial ecology and microbial diversity.

Chemistry and Biochemistry: BS, MS

Kinesiology: BS, MS

Mathematics: BS, MS

Physics: BA, BS

Statistics: BS

Please send comments or questions to cosam@calpoly.edu