Dedman College Majors

Once you are firmly grounded in basics like chemistry, introductory biology, and genetics, you will explore more specialized topics including immunobiology, biochemistry lab, and metabolism. Working closely with faculty, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct your own research in areas like plant genomes and pathogens. Specialized facilities such as the Keck Laboratory and Electron Microscopy laboratory give you access to highly advanced equipment for molecular biology and cellular ultrastructure study.

Degree Highlights

B.S. in Biological Sciences
Minimum 26 advanced term hours in biology, 16 term hours of chemistry, 8 term hours in general physics; MATH 1337; and one additional course chosen from MATH 1338, STAT 2331, and STAT 5371.

B.A. in Biological Sciences
Minimum 18 term hours in biology and 12 term hours of chemistry. Students who are preparing for medical or dental school should consult with the premed adviser about additional science requirements.

B.A. in Biological Sciences with Teacher Certification
Students interested in the B.A. in Biological Sciences degree program with teacher certification in secondary education should confer with the teacher certification representative in the department to plan a specific program of study.

Minor in Biology
Complete BIOL 1401, 1402, 3304 and two additional advanced three-hour courses as well as CHEM 1303, 1304, 1113, and 1114.

Related Majors and Minors

Biology majors can consider a double major or minor in other disciplines that combine well with the biological sciences, such as geology, environmental science, physics, and mathematics.

Careers

With the superior research and analytical skills gained from a degree in biological sciences, you will be prepared for a wide range of in-demand careers. Beyond medical school, consider such fields as marine biology, laboratory research, scientific instrumentation, conservation, and biotechnology.

Faculty

As a biological sciences major, you will conduct laboratory research with faculty members, who will listen and work alongside you. Many have distinguished themselves with unprecedented research, such as the role of buckyballs (nanoparticles) in causing brain damage in fish.

Internships & Study Abroad

Dedman College students get paid internships through the Hegi Family Career Development Center. Students majoring in biological sciences may be eligible to earn up to three (3) graded credits toward their degrees by enrolling for unpaid, faculty-directed internships through the Dedman College Internship Program.

In addition, you can add an extra dimension to your studies through the SMU Study Abroad Program. Choose from yearlong, semester, or summer programs at locations around the globe. The SMU-in-Copenhagen program, which includes course options on marine biology, health care, and ecology, is particularly beneficial to biology majors.