The Bachelor of Science degree in Biology provides a balanced blend of traditional and modern biology, incorporating the important generalizations of traditional biology with the more recent advances. The degree may lead to graduate study in biology or related fields such as forensic science; entrance into professional schools in medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy; and employment in applied or technical aspects of biology including the biotechnology industry and environmental science areas. In addition to the usual course offerings, the Department of Biological Sciences participates in the Southern California Ocean Studies Institute (SCOSI) and the California Desert Studies Consortium, which are explained in detail under Consortia in the first chapter of this catalog. The department also participates in the Interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science degree program in Natural Science.

The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biology is 180 units, of which 112-114 units are in the major. For General Education (GE), Biology majors must complete 12 units of Basic Subjects (GE Block A1, A2, and A3) + 8 units of American Institutions + 12 units of Humanities (GE Block C from 3 of the 5 areas) + 12 units of Social Sciences (GE Block D from 3 different departments) + 4 units of Life-Long Understanding (GE block E, which for freshmen is fulfilled by completing NSS 101 or an equivalent course) + 12 units of Upper Division (UD) GE Theme (GE Block F). Two courses from blocks C, D, E, OR F must be Diversity courses (d = Designated Diversity courses). Biology majors fulfill 8 units of Natural Sciences (GE Block B) by completing required major courses: BIOL 100A for GE Block B1 + either CHEM 101 OR PHYS 101 (whichever one is completed first) for GE Block B2. Biology majors fulfill basic subjects - Mathematics (GE - Block A4) by completing required major course (MATH 204 or MATH 205 or equivalent) or prerequisite course (MATH 104A or MATH 105 or equivalent) or other college level math (if changing major to biology). Biology majors may choose any Upper Division theme. They must take 1 Natural Science, 1 Social Science and 1 Humanities course from the same theme. They may not take any BIOL/MICR UD GE courses or courses cross-listed with BIOL/MICR UD GE courses to fulfill the 12 units of UD GE. Consult with a department advisor for more specifics on free electives, GE, and other university requirements.