Introduction
Biology is the study of living organisms. As scientists, biologists have three goals: (1) understanding biological systems, (2) generating and disseminating reliable data pertaining to biological systems, and (3) developing a deep understanding of the natural world that can inform solutions for the serious challenges facing humanity. The Biology minor course choices can enable you to develop an integrated conceptual foundation in biology, as well as critical thinking skills, quantitative problem-solving abilities, leadership and team-building skills, and scientific research skills.
WWU Biology is distinguished by small class sizes and direct engagement with dedicated faculty who chose to come to our department because of its student-centered approach to education – we care about your success. Here, you will be part of a student-centered, inclusive, welcoming, and engaging learning community, with access to experiential and place-based learning. For example, through upper-level laboratory courses and research experiences, you can access state-of-the-art research instrumentation, and explore the diversity of nearby habitats, from the Salish Sea to the Cascade Mountains.
Why consider a Biology Minor?
- Are you focused on another area of study, but still interested in biology?
- Can you imagine using tools and knowledge at the interface of two disciplines in a future career?
A biology minor can offer a solid introduction to the biological sciences. You will receive foundational knowledge, training on laboratory equipment, and experience in field- and lab-based research, while pursuing a major in another scholastic area. A biology minor is a good choice for a range of students, from someone enrolled in an inherently complementary discipline like Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Behavioral Neuroscience, to a Computer Science or Mathematics major who is interested in quantitative biology, or a Material Science student who is interested in biocompatible polymers. A biology minor is also useful for students outside of traditional STEM fields who seek a science connection, like an English major interested in scientific writing, or an Art student interested in scientific illustration. Official transcripts will indicate Minor: Biology.
Student Resources
Department website: Biology
Contact information: Maren Brinson and Alexis Donnelly, Biology 315, 360-650-6165, biologyadvising@wwu.edu
Academic advising: Admitted and/or current students must meet with an academic advisor.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers: Educator, Scientific Illustrator, Science Writer, Public Outreach, Nursing, Physician Assistant, Dental Assistant, Pathology Assistant
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Admission to the Biology Minor based upon an application procedure that considers prior academic performance (specifically GPA in prerequisite courses) and student responses to focused prompts.
Students admitted to the minor have priority registration access to a subset of the upper-division Biology courses that are available to Biology majors. See the Registration Information file under Helpful Links on the Biology Department homepage for more information about which upper-division courses are available to Biology minors during Phase I of registration.
Application to the Minor
Students are eligible to apply to the Biology Minor when they have completed BIOL 204, BIOL 205, CHEM 161/175, and CHEM 162/176 with grades of C- or higher. Application involves submitting a completed application form, including responding to prompts about the applicant’s experience, motivation, and goals. See the Biology Department’s website for more details, including information about application prompts, application deadlines, review timeline, and reapplication limits. The Biology Department’s website also has information specific to transfer students interested in applying for admission to the Biology Minor, such as application eligibility and transfer equivalencies.
Students are strongly encouraged to apply to the minor at the beginning of the quarter in which they are enrolled in BIOL 206 and/or CHEM 163/225 to ensure timely progress towards graduation. Admission to the minor following a successful application is contingent on completing both BIOL 206 and CHEM 163/225 with a grade of C- or higher.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s minor courses, and for supporting courses for the minor.
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