Because some careers in biology require advanced and/or specialized training, it is essential to take advantage of advising opportunities. In the Department of Biology, each student is assigned a faculty advisor. This advisor may be consulted prior to each registration period and as the student needs. Questions regarding registration, degree checks, transfer of courses, advanced placements and other academic matters are handled in the Office of Undergraduate Programs. Students with special interests in graduate study should consult the graduate advisor. Information concerning entrance to professional schools of medicine, dentistry and other health related fields is available from the Office of Professional School Advising.

Each student seeking a baccalaureate degree in the Department of Biology is required to master a common body of knowledge in science. In addition, the student must take courses essential to a liberal education. Students will note that the first two years of all curricula offered by the Department of Biology are similar. Notes which explain the superscripts are located after the B.S. curriculum in Zoology. Requirements for graduation are listed in the Texas A&M University Student Rules and this catalog.

In addition, students in the Department of Biology must make a grade of C or better in BIOL 111 and 112. Additionally, students may have only one D in courses within the major used to satisfy required or directed electives for a given degree plan.

Human Biology Track. This track is for students interested in pursuing professional schools including medical, dental and allied health programs (e.g., nursing, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy and physician assistant). The focus of the science courses on human biology will better prepare these students for their chosen fields. Suggested courses include:

Education Track. This track is for students wishing to acquire state certification to teach at the secondary level upon graduation. Students should seek advice from the advisors within their department and from the College of Education, as well as from the advisor in charge of their teaching option. The intention is to make the best possible use of social science, humanity, free and directed electives, thereby condensing as many of the certification requirements as possible into the degree plan. Suggested courses include:

Marine Biology Track. This track is for students requiring a more rigorous and in-depth foundation in biological courses that apply to marine environments and ecosystems. This degree plan is ideal for students who intend to pursue graduate studies in marine biology or serve as field biologists at national seashores or sanctuaries. A minimum of twenty hours is required to fulfill this requirement, to be chosen from the following:

Ecology/Environmental Track. This track is particularly designed for students interested in environmental consulting, environmental protection and ecosystem evaluation. This degree plan can be adapted to focus on particular areas or populations within an ecosystem. A minimum of 18 hours is required to fulfill this requirement, to be chosen from the following: