Major code BS2121

College of Arts and Sciences  
Biological Sciences Department  
Irvine Hall 107
Athens, OH 45701
www.ohio.edu/cas/biology

Jim Van Brocklyn, contact person
vanbrock@ohio.edu

Program Overview

The B.S. degree program in biological sciences is designed for students who seek flexibility and breadth in their programs. This track is particularly well-suited for students who plan to enter a biological sciences graduate program or professional school. To fulfill the minimum of 36 hours in biology, courses can be chosen to prepare for the student’s specific area of interest, while fulfilling the biology breadth requirement. This track fulfills the needs of students interested in specializations in clincal laboratory science/medical technology, exercise physiology, or neuroscience. With careful selection of elective courses, this track meets the pre-requisites for applying to medical, physician assistant, dental, optometry, and veterinary programs.

Admission Information

Freshman/First Year Admission

In the past, Biological Sciences had a very strong admission requirement of a PL1-level math placement. With the implementation of the test optional admission pathway, this requirement is no longer in place. However, achievement of PL1-level math placement can be a good indicator of strong preparation in math. After admission to Ohio University, students may transfer into a Biological Sciences major if they have earned a grade of “C” or better in both BIOS 1700  and BIOS 1705  and have a minimum accumulative GPA of 2.5 at Ohio University.

Change of Program Policy

Current Ohio University students who would like to declare one of the Biology majors must have a minimum Math ACT subscore of 20; equivalent Math SAT subscore (490 on tests taken prior to March 2016 or 520 on tests taken March 2016 or later); a minimum Ohio University math placement score of PL1; or a grade of “C” or better in equivalent courses to both BIOS 1700  and BIOS 1705  with a minimum accumulative Ohio University GPA of 2.5.

External Transfer Admission

Transfer students who would like to declare one of the Biology majors must have a minimum Math ACT subscore of 20; equivalent Math SAT subscore (490 on tests taken prior to March 2016 or 520 on tests taken March 2016 or later); a minimum Ohio University math placement score of PL1; or a grade of “C” or better in the equivalent courses to both BIOS 1700  and BIOS 1705  with a minimum accumulative GPA of 2.5 from their previous institution.

Opportunities Upon Graduation

Students who complete a program in Biological Sciences will be prepared for a wide range of careers, including, but not limited to, work in the state and federal government, higher education settings, the health industry, research laboratories, environmental organizations, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nature centers, museums, etc. This track is particularly well suited for students who plan to enter a biological sciences graduate program or professional school. With careful course selection, this major will meet the prerequisites for applying to the Physician’s Assistant programs.

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Requirements