Mar 28, 2024  
Whittier College Catalog 2021-2022 
    
Whittier College Catalog 2021-2022 ARCHIVED CATALOG

Biology, B.A.


The major is organized around the hierarchical structure of living organisms within an overarching theme of the evolution of living things. Students are required to take three introductory courses dealing with cell form and function, the form and function of organisms, and the ways in which populations of organisms interact with each other and their environment; more advanced coursework is completed by selecting courses from cellular and molecular, organismal, and population focused courses. Major requirements also include research-intensive courses and a senior seminar.

Requirements


A minimum of 46 credits with 37 credits in the discipline and 24 credits in BIOL at the 300 level or above

Complete the following courses:


 14 credits

Organizational Levels


Complete one course from each of the following organizational levels (courses listed in multiple categories can only be counted in one of the categories). 11 credits.

Cellular-Molecular


A study of cell structure and molecular-controlled functions

Organismal


A study of the organism, the congruence of form and function, and the maintenance of its internal environment

Populations


A study of the interaction of organisms with each other, with the external environment, and the changes that occur through time

Senior Seminar


1 credit

Note:


For majors considering graduate or professional schools, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, and Calculus are imperative. Many graduate and professional schools require these courses.