COURSE CURRICULUM

The General Biology concentration within the Bachelor of Science in Biology program at University of New Haven provides students with a broad and comprehensive education in the biological sciences while developing strong laboratory, analytical, research, and scientific communication skills. The program is designed for students with wide-ranging interests in biology and prepares them for careers or advanced study in healthcare, biotechnology, environmental science, research, education, and related scientific fields. Students complete University Core Curriculum requirements that include advanced mathematics and chemistry foundations, helping strengthen quantitative reasoning and scientific understanding. The concentration emphasizes a strong knowledge base in biological principles and encourages students to understand the connections among different areas of biology. Students are trained to perform laboratory and field techniques commonly used in biological sciences while also learning how to analyze biological data using computers and scientific software. The program develops scientific communication abilities through written reports, oral presentations, and discussions of scientific findings, while also teaching students how to evaluate scientific literature, conduct electronic research, and assess the quality and reliability of scientific information sources. The curriculum includes foundational courses such as Biology I and II, Genetics, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Scientific Evaluation and Writing, and Senior Seminar, along with chemistry and physics courses that provide interdisciplinary scientific training. Students also complete coursework in microbiology or cell biology, organic chemistry, and laboratory science to strengthen their understanding of biological systems at molecular, cellular, organismal, and environmental levels. In addition to required courses, students complete 26 credits of restricted electives that allow exploration of specialized topics such as anatomy and physiology, advanced biology courses, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, marine biology, animal behavior, sustainability ecology, and instrumental scientific methods. This flexibility allows students to tailor the program according to personal interests and career goals while gaining exposure to multiple scientific disciplines. The concentration also includes 21 credits of free electives that provide additional opportunities for interdisciplinary learning or specialization. Overall, the program combines rigorous scientific coursework, practical laboratory experience, critical thinking, research literacy, and communication training to prepare graduates for professional success and advanced education in a variety of biological and scientific careers.