COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at Sacramento State offers a rigorous foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and statistics, preparing students for careers in biotechnology, healthcare, research, and advanced graduate studies. The program is structured with lower division core courses totaling 37–41 units, including biodiversity, evolution, cells, molecules, and genes, as well as general, organic, and biochemistry, introductory physics, calculus, and statistics. Upper division core courses consist of 7 units covering scientific analysis and genetics, ensuring that students gain essential analytical and laboratory skills. Students then choose a concentration, with the Cell and Molecular Biology track designed for those interested in molecular mechanisms of life, disease biology, biotechnology, and pre-health professional pathways. This concentration also satisfies the requirements for a minor in chemistry. Concentration coursework, totaling 34–36 units, includes molecular cell biology, advanced cell biology, molecular biology research experience, evolution, quantitative analysis, general and laboratory biochemistry, and organic chemistry laboratory. Students also select electives in structure and function, as well as biodiversity or ecology and evolution, allowing for specialization in areas such as vertebrate morphology, systemic physiology, plant anatomy, medical microbiology, or conservation biology. The program provides opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research projects, laboratory teaching assistantships, and directed readings, with up to three units counting toward upper division requirements. Students may apply up to six units of approved upper division electives from related fields, and a maximum of three units from BIO 195 or 197 series courses counts toward major requirements. Overall, the program emphasizes the integration of molecular, cellular, ecological, and evolutionary principles, combining strong theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory and research experience. Graduates from the Cell and Molecular Biology concentration are well-prepared for professional careers in research, biotechnology, healthcare, and advanced graduate or professional programs, gaining a robust understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of life, experimental design, and data analysis, as well as preparation for interdisciplinary applications in biology and chemistry.