PLANT BIOLOGY

The Plant Biology concentration provides undergraduates with training in those areas of science that are essential to an understanding of modern plant sciences. Like the biology concentration, this concentration deals with all of the major levels of biological organization (molecular, cellular, organismal, ecological, and evolutionary), but differs from the Biology concentration by its greater emphasis on the biology of plants. This program is well suited for those who wish to study biology as part of a liberal education, or to prepare for a teaching career in secondary schools. It also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in basic and applied areas of the plant sciences and related fields, such as ecology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry.

Prerequisites to Concentration. BIOLOGY 162; CHEM 210/211, 215/216; MATH 115 and 116; PHYSICS 125/127 and 126/128, or PHYSICS 140/141 and 240/241.

Concentration Program. A minimum of 33 credits, including:

1. Biochemistry (BIOLOGY 310, 311, BIOLCHEM 415, or CHEM 451 and 452).

2. Genetics (BIOLOGY 305).

3. One course from each of three of the following four categories:

(a) Cellular and Molecular Biology (MCDB 406, 413, or 430);

(b) Plant Structure, Function, and Development (MCDB 321/322, EEB 375, or EEB 461);

(c) Biological Diversity (EEB 255, 457, 458, 459, or 556);

(d) Ecology and Evolution (BIOLOGY 281/282 [or EEB 381], 390).

4. Two additional courses not used to satisfy Requirement 3, from one of the categories in Requirement 3 or from the following, more specialized courses: BIOLOGY 215, EEB 355, EEB 415, EEB 468, EEB 490, EEB 495, EEB 498.

5. Three laboratory courses (courses used to meet above requirements can be used to satisfy this requirement). Three credits of EEB or MCDB 300 can be included as one of the required laboratory courses. Only three credits of independent study may count toward the concentration.

6. Any other biology courses at the 200-level or above (or up to the maximum of two cognate courses) chosen in consultation with and approved by the concentration advisor.

Advising. Advising appointments are scheduled at 1111 Natural Science Building. Office staff also are prepared to answer questions about various aspects of both programs. Questions about content and appropriateness of course elections should be directed to individual instructors or advisors.

Download the Plant Biology Checksheet.