Department
Biology
College of Arts and Sciences
Description of the Program
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in biology is a liberal arts degree with a concentration in the biological sciences. It is not a pre-professional degree, but it does prepare students for professional programs in veterinary medicine, dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, etc., as well as for advanced degrees in the biological sciences, i.e., Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy(Ph.D).
A major in biology is valuable because of the important role that biology plays in our everyday lives. An understanding of basic biological principles is crucial in interpreting the implications of environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity, the impact of genetic engineering and biotechnology in crop improvement, the treatment of disease, forensic medicine, and legal and ethical issues associated with the above.
Career Opportunities
A major in biology offers an excellent background for a variety of careers and advanced training.
Many biology majors go into medicine, law, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, optometry, and
academia. Numerous career opportunities can be found in government, business, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology,
environmental survey/control and other industries. In addition, opportunities are available in other disciplines
such as journalism, broadcasting, and public policy. A more complete treatment of careers open to those with a
biology degree is provided on the Biology website: biosci.uga.edu.
Expectations of Transfer Students
Students who are transferring upon completion of two years of course work are strongly encouraged to
complete areas D and F as specified for the biology major. Students are strongly encouraged to take a majors'
introductory biology sequence as part of areas D and F if it is available and to contact the Biology Program for
information on transferring advanced biology courses required for the major. Students should contact the College
of Arts and Sciences or the Biology Program Office for information on how best to fulfill these requirements.