Because contemporary biology leans heavily on mathematics and physical sciences, students majoring in biology should include introductory mathematics and chemistry in the freshman year. The beginning course will be BIO 112 where the student will build a foundation for future study of biological processes. With this preparation, students can proceed to the first 200-level biology course during the second semester of the freshman year. In the sophomore year, the student will continue the survey of the kingdoms of life by taking additional 200-level biology courses. Students should strengthen their understanding of mathematics and obtain a background in organic chemistry during that year. Biology courses at the 300-400 level should be taken during the junior and senior years, with seminar reserved for the senior year. In these courses students will examine in detail how organisms function, as well as how they interact with their environment and each other. Biology majors are encouraged to minor in chemistry.

Upper-level students may enroll in marine biology courses at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory during the Summer. For information, see the Department Chair.