Biological Science Information | Biological Science Programs | Biological Science Courses
Bachelor of Science in Biology
This degree includes a general option in biology and six additional options for those desiring a more specialized program.
Biology (code BIOLBS01) (120 units)
This degree major is designed for students pursuing careers that involve the study of life; it is especially appropriate for those contemplating graduate work in the biological sciences. This option gives the student a broad background involving coursework in most of the major areas of biology, without requiring specialization in any one particular field. Students in this option have more elective courses in their major than in the other, more specialized, options, which enables them to partially concentrate their studies in a particular area if they so choose. Because of this, students may not combine this option with any other in the B.S. in Biology nor with the B.S. in Marine Biology or Microbiology as part of a dual major. This option requires approximately 79-81 units in the major, of which 37-39 are in lower division and 42 are in upper division. All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; PHYS 100 A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208, MICR 101, and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 320A,B; at least 34 units in biological science including BIOL 340, 345, 345L, 350, 370; one of BIOL 313, 316, 324; one of BIOL 427, 439; and 12 additional units selected from upper division courses in the Department of Biological Sciences. At least two of the courses selected to fulfill these additional units must have numbers between 410-499. Either CHEM 441A,B or 448 will count toward these additional 12 units. Up to 6 of these additional units may be substituted from courses in other departments in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics upon approval by the undergraduate advisor. Students contemplating graduate work should consider taking 1-3 units of BIOL 496. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Option in Biology Education (code BIOLBS02) (120 units)
This option is designed solely for students who wish to become secondary school Biology teachers. This option requires 80-92 units in the major, of which 48-52 are lower division and 32-40 are upper division. Prospective students should consult the Single Subject Science Education Advisor in the Department of Science Education early to plan their program.
Completion of the Biological Sciences Concentration meets the subject matter competence requirement for the Single Subject Preliminary Credential in Biology (code 184). In addition to meeting the subject matter competence requirement for the Preliminary Credential, prospective Biology teachers are also required to complete 44 units of professional preparation in the Single Subject Credential Program, including student teaching. Students may begin the professional preparation courses as early as the junior year. With careful planning, it is possible to complete many of the credential program courses, as an undergraduate. Courses may also be started as post-baccalaureate student. Refer to the Single Subject Teacher Education section of this Catalog or the Single Subject Credential Program website (www.ced.csulb.edu/single-subject) for a description of the professional preparation requirements, courses, and application procedures.
The Biological Sciences Subject Matter Program is being revised to meet new state standards. When the revised program has been approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, the new course requirements will be in effect and supersede current requirements.
All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Requirements
Lower Division: ASTR 100; BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; GEOL 102, 104, 160; MATH 119A or 122; MICR 200 or 211; and PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208, and MICR 101 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 327 or both 320A and B; SCED 404; and eight additional courses totaling 26-29 units in the biological sciences including BIOL 312, 340, 345, 350, 370; one of these three plant biology courses: BIOL 328, 439, 447; one of these three animal biology courses: BIOL 313, 316, 324. The remaining biological sciences course should be chosen in consultation with an advisor; BIOL 495/MICR 495 is highly recommended. Either CHEM 441A, B or 448 will count toward this additional required course. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Although SCED 403, EDSS 300C, and MICR 300I are not required in the major, the credential does require these courses. Students may want to take some or all of them prior to graduation.
Option in Botany (code BIOLBS03) (120 units)
This option is designed primarily for those interested in careers involving the biology of plants and is particularly appropriate for those contemplating graduate work in this field. This option requires approximately 78-80 units in the major, of which 37-39 are in lower division and 41 are in upper division.
All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208, MICR 101, and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: 41 units including CHEM 320A,B; BIOL 340, 350, 370, 427, 439, 447, 450. Remaining 9 units selected in consultation with appropriate faculty advisor. CHEM 441A,B or 448 will count toward these nine units. Students contemplating graduate work should consider taking 1-3 units of BIOL 496. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Option in Cell and Molecular Biology (code BIOLBS04) (121 units)
This option is designed primarily for those interested in careers that involve biology at the cell and molecular levels and is particularly appropriate for those contemplating graduate work in these fields. This option requires 81-84 units in the major, of which 42-44 are in lower division and 39-40 are in upper division. Students in this option might also want to pursue the Certificate in Biotechnology described elsewhere in this catalog.
All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; MICR 211; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208, MICR 101, and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 320A,B, 441A,B; BIOL 340, 340L, 350, 370, 433; three courses selected from BIOL 443, 445, 447, 464, 465 or 467, 473, 477, CHEM 547, MICR 430, 452. Students who contemplate graduate work are strongly encouraged to take, in addition, at least 2 units of BIOL 496. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Option in Ecology (code BIOLBS05) (123 units)
This option is designed for students interested in careers involving the study of organisms in relation to their environment, either in private industry or government service, as well as those students contemplating graduate work in this field. This option requires approximately 83-92 units in the major, of which 41-43 are in lower division and 42-49 are in upper division.
All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; GEOL 102, 104 or 105; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101 and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 320A,B or both CHEM 327 and 448; BIOL 312, 340, 345, 345L, 350, 370, 427; one of BIOL 313, 316 or 324; four additional courses including one of these 10 in organismal diversity: BIOL 313, 316, 324, 411, 419, 421, 423, 424, 425, 439; one of these 10 in ecology and environmental science: BIOL 420, 422, 450, 451, 452, 453, 454A, 454B, 455, 457; one of these four in quantitative biology: BIOL 456, 463, 465, 467; and another course from any of the preceding three lists or BIOL 353, 355, 355L, 444, 459, 464; GEOG 440, 473, 481; GEOL 339. With consent of the appropriate faculty advisor, 3 units of BIOL 496 is acceptable as this fourth additional course. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I; MICR 300I; and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major. Few, if any, health-related professional schools (e.g. veterinary medicine) will accept CHEM 327 instead of both 320A and 320B. Some graduate programs with masters or doctorates in biology and/or ecology may also not accept CHEM 327 instead of both 320A and 320B. CHEM 327 is not acceptable as a prerequisite for CHEM 441A. CHEM 327 is acceptable toward the Minor in Chemistry.
Option in Physiology (code BIOLBS06) (120 units)
This option is designed primarily for those interested in careers involving the study of function in animals, especially humans, and is particularly appropriate for those contemplating graduate work in this field or entering one of the health professions, such as medicine and physical therapy. This option requires 77-81 units in the major, of which 37-39 are in lower division and 40-42 are in upper division.
All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101; and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 320A,B, 441A,B; BIOL 340, 350, 370. Two tracks exist for remaining upper division courses. Pre-physical therapy track: BIOL 341, 441, and either BIOL 332, 433, or HHS 401, plus six additional units selected from BIOL 345, 443, 444, 445, 447, 448, 449; HHS 471; MICR 430. General physiology track: BIOL 342, 342L or 345, 345L, and either BIOL 332 or 433, plus nine additional units selected from BIOL 342, 345, 442, 443, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448, 449, 490; MICR 423, 430. Students contemplating graduate school should consider taking an additional 1-3 units of BIOL 496. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I; MICR 300I; and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Option in Zoology (code BIOLBS07) (123 units)
This option is designed primarily for those interested in careers that involve the biology of animals and is particularly appropriate for those contemplating graduate work in this field. This option requires approximately 83-86 units in the major, of which 41-44 are in lower division and 42 are in upper division.
All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; GEOL 102 and 104 or 105 or MICR 211; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101; and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 320A,B; BIOL 312, 324, 340, 345, 345L, 350, 370, 313 or 316. At least one course selected from BIOL 313, 316, 411, 419, 421, 423, 424; and at least two additional courses in biological science totaling at least six units chosen in consultation with a faculty advisor. Either CHEM 441A,B or 448 will count toward these six units. Students contemplating graduate work should consider taking 1-3 units of BIOL 496. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (code BIOLBS08) (123 units)
Rocky shores, sandy beaches, tidal wetlands, kelp forests, and the open ocean coupled with the anthropogenic activities of a major urban area provide the seascape for our Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology. This degree is designed for students seeking positions in private industry and governmental agencies and is also appropriate for those considering graduate work in marine biology and ecology. The program takes ready advantage of the region’s diverse habitats with a strong field orientation, supported by the R.V. Yellowfin, an 80’ teaching and research vessel. Coincidental with this, environmental problems in the Southern California Bight provide another area for student interests.
This degree program requires approximately 83-91 units in the major, of which 40-42 are in lower division and 43-49 are in upper division. The number of units and particular blend of science and mathematics makes this a very challenging learning experience. However, the depth and strength of this degree provides a strong and flexible base to pursue a variety of careers. Obtaining a minor in another discipline, such as chemistry, microbiology, engineering, business, or computer science, may enhance one’s marketability. All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division: BIOL 153, 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; MATH 119A or 122, 119B or 123; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101 and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division: CHEM 327 or both 320A and B; BIOL 313, 340, 345, 345L, 350, 353, 370, 419, 425; GEOL 465 and 466; a minimum of 6 units selected from the following ten courses in marine science: BIOL 411, 420, 428, 451, 454A, 449, 455, 464; BIOL/MICR 415, and, with permission of marine biology advisor, BIOL 490; select a minimum of 3 units from the following seven courses in methodology and techniques: BIOL 457, 463, 465, 467; GEOG 481; and, with consent of marine biology advisor, BIOL 496. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I; MICR 300I; and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Few, if any, health-related professional schools (e.g. veterinary medicine) will accept CHEM 327 instead of both 320A and 320B. Some graduate programs with masters or doctorates in biology and/or marine biology may also not accept CHEM 327 instead of both 320A and 320B. CHEM 327 is not acceptable as a prerequisite for CHEM 441A. CHEM 327 is acceptable toward the Minor in Chemistry.
Bachelor of Science in Microbiology (code BIOLBS09) (124 units)
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms and their interactions with humans, other organisms, and the environment. This degree, with the inclusion of appropriate classes, may be utilized by pre-professional students who are preparing for medical, dental, pharmacy, and veterinary school. A major in microbiology prepares students for a wide range of employment opportunities in clinical and public health fields, biotechnology, environmentally related fields, and industries concerning food, water quality, pharmaceuticals, and medical equipment and supplies. There is a core of courses for each of these varied educational and employment opportunities and specific programs can be arranged by counseling with microbiology advisors in the department. This undergraduate major is recognized by the American Society for Microbiology as meeting their core curriculum for the baccalaureate degree program in microbiology. This major requires 84-85 units, of which 39-40 are in the lower division and 45 are in upper division. All students must achieve at least a 2.0 grade-point average in each of the following: 1. the entire college record, 2. all units attempted at CSULB, 3. all courses in the major, and 4. all upper division courses in the major completed at CSULB.
Lower Division Requirements: BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 111A,B; MATH 119A or 122; MICR 211; PHYS 100A,B. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101 and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Upper Division Requirements: CHEM 320A,B, 441A,B; BIOL 340; MICR 320, 355, 371, 372, 430, 471; and a minimum of 11 additional elective units chosen from: BIOL 473, 477; MICR 320L, 322, 355L, 423, 429, 430L, 452, 473, 480, 490, 490L, 495, and 496. Those students seeking a career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist are encouraged to take MICR 423, 430L, 320L, and 452. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I; MICR 300I; and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this major.
Bachelor of Science Degree with Honors in Biology, Marine Biology, or Microbiology
Students majoring in the B. S. in Biology (all options), B. S. in Marine Biology, or B. S. in Microbiology who would like an enriched academic program, including an intensive research experience, may be eligible to graduate with Honors in the Major through the University Honors Program. Students may also complete General Honors through the University Honors Program, in which case the General Honors thesis requirement is met through Honors in the Major (see University Honors in this Catalog).
Students interested in graduating with Honors in the Major should participate in a series of courses designed to introduce central concepts in biology (BIOL 110H), develop critical thinking and communication skills (special section of UHP 100), and introduce the newly emerging field of bioinformatics (BIOL 220H). In addition, they may join a learning community of students with similar interests and benefit from mentoring by faculty members.
This Honors in the Major program was created with the support of a grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Students admitted to Honors in the Major may be eligible to receive monetary support from a variety of sources for completion of their honors research and thesis.
Students who have successfully completed the lower division Honors in the Major curriculum will receive priority for research fellowship support to the extent that it is available.
Additional details about this program, including availability of fellowship support, are available from the Honors in the Major Program Advisor.
Requirements for Admission
1. Junior or senior standing with at least one year remaining before graduation.
2. Declared major of B. S. in Biology (any option), B. S. in Marine Biology, or B. S. in Microbiology.
3. Completion of BIOL 211A,B, 260; CHEM 320A,B at time of entry with grades of at least “C” in each course. Students may apply during the semester in which they expect to complete these courses.
4. GPAs of at least 3.000 in all courses in the major and in all upper division courses in the major at the time of application.
5. Submission of an application describing the student’s academic background, reasons for applying (including a description of any previous research experience), and willingness to commit to a year-long research experience.
6. Letter of recommendation from a CSULB faculty member familiar with the student’s work and abilities.
Requirements for Graduation
1. GPA of at least 3.300 in all upper division courses in the major and in Honors courses.
2. Completion of all requirements for the chosen degree in the Biological Sciences.
3. Completion of either BIOL 220H or 477.
4. Completion of BIOL 466H, Research Design and Methods - Honors (3 units).
5. Completion of 3 units of BIOL 496, Undergraduate Directed Research.
6. Completion of 3 units of BIOL 498H, Thesis - Honors.
7. Presentation of research results in a public forum. This requirement may be met by presentation at a scientific conference or at a local venue; consult the Program Advisor for additional information.
Substitutions to this program must be approved by the Honors in the Major Program Advisor.
Minor in Biology (code BIOLUM01)
This minor may be combined with any major at CSULB except the B.S. in Biology (all options), B.S. in Microbiology, and B.S. in Marine Biology.
A minimum of 19 units is required for the minor.
Lower Division: BIOL 211A,B (211A requires CHEM 111A; 211B requires CHEM 111B.) BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101 and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this minor.
Upper Division: A minimum of nine units selected from upper division biology courses with at least one course selected from the 400 series. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, 429, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this minor.
Minor in Physiology (code BIOLUM03)
This minor may be combined with any major at CSULB except the B.S. in Biology, Option in Physiology. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208; MICR 101 and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this minor.
A minimum of 18 upper division units. Twelve of these 18 units must be selected from the following courses: BIOL 341, 342, 342L, 345, 345L, 442, 443, 445, 446, 448, 490. The other six of these eighteen units must be selected from other courses in the above list or from BIOL 473; CHEM 441A,B, 443, or 448. At least one of the upper division courses taken for this minor must have a laboratory. Most of these upper division courses require CHEM 111A,B and BIOL 211A, B as prerequisites; some have other prerequisites in addition. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I; MICR 300I; and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this minor.
Minor in Microbiology (code BIOLUM04)
This minor may be combined with any major at CSULB except the B.S. in Microbiology. A minimum of 21 units which must include:
Lower Division: MICR 211. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208, MICR 101, and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this minor.
Upper Division: MICR 320, 430, and 452; plus a minimum of five units from the following: MICR 322, 371, 471, and 473. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I, MICR 300I, and NSCI 492 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this minor.
Certificate Program in Biomedical Art (code ART_CT01)
The Certificate Program in Biomedical Art is an interdisciplinary program sponsored by the Art and Biological Sciences Departments. Requirements for the certificate are listed in the Art section of this Catalog. Co-directors of the CSULB biomedical art program are in Art, Mr. Peter Mendez and in Biological Sciences, Dr. Kenneth Gregory. Questions may be addressed to them during office hours, which are listed in the respective departmental offices.
Certificate in Biotechnology (code BIOLCT01)
Biotechnology is a rapidly growing field which encompasses many domains of science. Specifically, biotechnology refers to a process which ultimately yields a product. The products can be loosely subdivided into five categories; biological organisms with novel traits, DNAs, RNAs, proteins, and compounds. The Undergraduate Certificate in Biotechnology is the integrated use of specific offerings of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, including the departments of Biological Sciences and Chemistry and Biochemistry. Laboratory facilities and selected courses will serve to provide a fundamental background in the theory and techniques of biotechnology. The certificate may be earned in conjunction with or subsequent to a baccalaureate degree. Courses offered for the certificate may be used to satisfy, as appropriate, major or minor requirements.
Prerequisites for Admission
1. Completion of the following courses with a grade of “C” or better (or consent of the biotechnology certificate program director): CHEM 111A,B; CHEM 320A,B; CHEM 441A,B; BIOL 340; BIOL 370; MICR 211. BIOL 153, 200, 200L, 204, 205, 207, 208, MICR 101, and 200 do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this certificate.
Requirements
1. A baccalaureate degree (can be concurrent);
2. Completion of the program’s prerequisite course requirements;
3. Approval by the program director;
4. Completion of the Core Curriculum: BIOL 477/577 (3); NSCI 492 (3); BIOL 473/573 (3); MICR 480/580 (1); Additional 3 units to be selected in consultation with the program director;
5. Completion of 3 units consisting of an approved research project in biotechnology to be taken from one or more of the following: BIOL 496; CHEM 496; or MICR 496 (undergraduate students); BIOL 697; CHEM 697; or MICR 697 (graduate students);
6. BIOL 301, 303, 304, 306, 309I and MICR 300I do not meet any specific or elective requirements for this certificate.
7. Total Units Required for Certificate: 16-17 units.
Concurrent and/or Summer Enrollment in Another College
Students who wish to take coursework in a community or another college to meet curricular requirements while enrolled as undergraduates in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics must petition the appropriate department for prior approval to enroll in specific courses. This policy applies to concurrent enrollment or summer enrollment. University policy must also be met. See ‘Concurrent Enrollment’ and ‘Transfer of Undergraduate Credit’ in this Catalog. Courses not receiving prior approval will not be accepted for credit by the department.
Master of Science in Biology (code BIOLMS01)
The available programs in this degree cover a wide spectrum of biology and include both laboratory and field study. This degree requires a thesis based on original scientific research; a list of research areas with the names of faculty specializing in these areas can be obtained from the Department's Graduate Office.
Admission to the Department
Prerequisites
In addition to the prerequisites for entrance into CSULB as a graduate student stated previously in this Catalog under Graduate Degrees and Post Baccalaureate Studies, the Department of Biological Sciences requires:
1. A bachelor's degree in the biological or related sciences with minimum coursework similar to the lower division requirements of a degree program in the Department of Biological Sciences, CSULB, including cell biology and statistics, ecology, and genetics (other undergraduate degrees will be considered by the Graduate Studies Committee);
2. An undergraduate grade point average in all completed science and mathematics courses of at least 2.70, or a grade point average of at least 3.00 in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of science and mathematics courses completed; and
3. The Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or the Subject Test in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology, which must have been taken prior to applying to the Department. Most students who apply with a score less than the 50th percentile on this test will be denied admittance to the Department. The GRE Subject Test must have been taken within five years prior to the intended admission date.
A student who does not meet these minimum entrance prerequisites must obtain a faculty sponsor in order to be considered for admittance.
Application
Prospective graduate students in M.S. in Biology, including CSULB graduates, must formally apply for admission to CSULB as described previously in this Catalog and must also apply directly to the Department of Biological Sciences. All applicants must submit the following documents directly to the Department no later than 15 March for the fall semester or 15 October for the spring semester to receive consideration for admission:
1. Departmental Application Form, available from the Department's Graduate Office;
2. Official transcripts of all college level academic work including that done at CSULB (these are in addition to those transcripts required for general graduate admission to CSULB);
3. Three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's academic performance and research potential (if applying for a teaching associate position, the letters must refer to the applicant's potential to teach laboratory sections in the biological sciences); and
4. Official report of scores on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or the Subject Test in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology. The applicant should have taken this examination well prior to applying to the Department, because the official score must reach the Department by the deadlines above.
These materials must be submitted to the Department's Graduate Office.
Review by the Graduate Studies Committee
The Graduate Studies Committee will review all folders completed by the deadlines and either accept the applicant as a Classified or Conditionally Classified graduate student or deny admission. Acceptance is competitive and the GPA, the GRE Subject Test score, and the letters of recommendation will be weighed in the decision to accept or reject an applicant. All accepted students must contact the Departmental Graduate Advisor prior to their initial semester for counsel and orientation.
Admission to the Department of Biological Sciences as a Classified Graduate Student
The Department of Biological Sciences may admit as a Classified graduate student any applicant who:
1. has met all prerequisites,
2. has a complete folder of all required documents, and
3. has obtained acceptance by a faculty member as the Chair of the student's Thesis Committee. The student and faculty should then set up a program (see "The Program of Study", below).
Admission to the Department of Biological Sciences as a Conditionally Classified Graduate Student
An applicant who fails to meet the criteria above for Classified admission to the Department and who falls into one of the following four categories may be considered by the Graduate Studies Committee for admission as Conditionally Classified graduate student:
1. An applicant with course and/or unit deficiencies. The Graduate Studies Committee will determine what deficiencies each applicant has and indicate on the back of the Department Application Form which course(s) the applicant must take to make up those deficiencies. These courses are in addition to the minimum 30 units on the student's Program of Study (see below). The applicant must make up all such deficiencies before attaining Classified status;
2. An applicant with GPA deficiencies. An applicant with a undergraduate GPA in science and math courses between 2.50 and 2.75 and a GPA in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of science and math courses between 2.75 and 3.00 may secure admission as a Conditionally Classified graduate student. The applicant must first obtain sponsorship from a Department of Biological Sciences faculty member; this faculty member must indicate in writing to the Graduate Studies Committee willingness to serve as the Chair of the applicant's thesis committee and the reasons why the Graduate Studies Committee should admit the applicant. Thus, an applicant with low GPA must contact potential thesis advisors before the Graduate Studies Committee can consider the application. In addition, an applicant receiving the Conditionally Classified status must complete, with a grade of "A" or "B", three approved courses totaling at least nine units acceptable to the Graduate Studies Committee and the Department Chair before attaining Classified status. These approved courses may appear on the student's Graduate Program of Study. If the applicant receives less than a "B" in any of the three courses, the applicant will be dropped from the M.S. in Biology program. An applicant who fails to meet the GPA criteria for normal, Classified admission, and has an undergraduate GPA in science and mathematics courses of less than 2.50 and a GPA in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of science and mathematics courses of less than 2.75 is not eligible for admission to the M.S. in Biology degree program;
3. An applicant who has scored below the 50th percentile on the GRE Subject Test; and
4. An applicant who meets all prerequisites but who does not yet have a Chair for the Thesis Committee. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain a Chair and set up a proposed graduate program by the end of the second semester in residence following admission to the Master of Science program or they will be dropped from the program.
The Program of Study
After admission to the Department as a Classified or Conditionally Classified graduate student, the student in consultation with the Thesis Chair, must establish a Program of Study that includes a program of classes and a thesis proposal. The student and Thesis Committee Chair will select at least two additional members to serve on the student's Thesis Committee. The Departmental Graduate Advisor serves as an ex-officio member of all thesis committees. Each student must prepare a written thesis proposal for approval by the student's Thesis Committee. The Thesis Committee will meet with the student to determine what courses the student must take and indicate them on the M.S. in Biology Graduate Program Form.
The Program of Study must include six units of Thesis (BIOL 698), one to three units of Directed Research (BIOL 697), one unit of Seminar (MICR 580 or BIOL 580), BIOL 696, and four units from BIOL 661, 663, 664, 665, 666; MICR 661; or CHEM 595A; BIOL 661-666 and MICR 661 topics must be different. Of the minimum 30 units, no more than six may come from BIOL 661-666, and CHEM 595A; no more than six may come from transfer credit; and no more than one 300-level course may be included.
The Program of Study must be established before the end of the second semester after admission to the Department; in addition, the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR) must be fulfilled and a score at, or above, the 50th percentile on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology must be achieved by this time. Failure to meet these requirements will result in dismissal from the Department's M.S. in Biology program.
Advancement to Candidacy
In addition to the general University requirements stated previously under Post-Baccalaureate and Graduate Degrees in this Catalog, the student must complete the following steps before receiving Candidate status in the Department of Biological Sciences:
1. Admission to the Department of Biological Sciences Master's Degree program as a Classified graduate student (see above);
2. Achievement of a score at, or above, the 50th percentile on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or the Subject Test in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology. This requirement must be met by the end of the second semester in residence. Normally, students not meeting this requirement will be dropped from the program. Only in cases where English is not the student's native language or if a disability impedes the student's performance, may an alternative be petitioned. In these cases, the Chair of her/his Thesis Committee must petition, in writing, the Graduate Studies Committee to provide an alternate method for meeting this requirement. This petition must provide full documentation of the student's progress to date, professional promise, and a schedule for meeting all degree requirements. If granted, the alternate method will consist of an exam, oral and/or written, in which the student must demonstrate extensive knowledge of the major areas of biology. The exam committee will consist of the Department Graduate Advisor and three faculty members selected by the Graduate Studies Committee. No member of the student's Thesis Committee may serve on this committee; and
3. Establishment of a Thesis Committee and Program of Study (see above). Upon evidence of satisfactory academic progress and satisfactory fulfillment of the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR), the Thesis Committee will recommend the student for advancement to candidacy by forwarding its recommendation to the Department Graduate Advisor. This should occur at least one year before graduation. Upon approval by the Associate Dean for Graduate Accountability, the student will attain the status of Classified graduate standing.
Requirements for Master of Science in Biology
In addition to the general University requirements stated previously in this catalog, the student must meet the following requirements before receiving the degree of Master of Science in Biology.
1. Advancement to candidacy (see above);
2. Maintenance of a 3.00 ("B" average), or better, overall graduate grade-point average (includes all upper-division and graduate level courses taken since admission to this University and after completion of the baccalaureate degree) and graduate program GPA. If either GPA falls below 3.00, it must be elevated to a 3.00 at the end of the following semester or the student will be dropped from the M.S. in Biology program;
3. Completion of a written thesis and an oral defense of this thesis, followed by a public presentation of the thesis research. The members of the candidate's Thesis Committee must have approved the thesis and the defense before a student may schedule the public presentation. The student may not defend the thesis or give a public presentation during the summer term; and
4. Serve as a teaching associate or graduate assistant. Under some circumstances, this requirement may be waived.
Requests to graduate must be received by Enrollment Services approximately 6 months in advance of the expected graduation date (check the Schedule of Classes for the date).
These requirements must be completed within 6 years from when the first course on the Program of Study was completed, including academic leaves, or the student's degree program will be terminated.
Master of Science in Microbiology (code BIOLMS02)
This degree is available to qualified students preparing for professional careers in industry and government and for further studies at the doctoral level. In addition, a Master’s degree in Microbiology, combined with appropriate courses in education, can be utilized for a community college teaching credential.
Admission to the Department
Prerequisites
In addition to the prerequisites for entrance into CSULB as a graduate student stated previously in this Catalog under Graduate Degrees and Post Baccalaureate Studies, the Department of Biological Sciences requires:
1. A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with course work in microbiology, cell biology, and biochemistry appropriate for a science major and obtained from an accredited institution;
2. An undergraduate grade point average in all completed science and mathematics courses of at least 2.70, or a grade point average of at least 3.00 in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of science and mathematics courses completed; and
3. A score at or above the 50th percentile on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Subject test (in either Biology or in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology) taken within 5 years prior to the intended admission date.
An applicant who does not meet the above requirements may be admitted as a conditionally classified graduate student as explained below.
Application
Prospective graduate students in M.S. in Microbiology, including CSULB graduates, must formally apply for admission to CSULB as described previously in this Catalog and must also apply directly to the Department of Biological Sciences. All applicants must submit the following documents directly to the Department no later than 15 March for the fall semester or 15 October for the spring semester to receive consideration for admission:
1. Departmental Application Form, available from the Department's Graduate Office;
2. Official transcripts of all college level academic work including that done at CSULB; these are in addition to those transcripts required for general graduate admission to CSULB;
3. Three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's academic performance and research potential (if applying for a teaching associate position, the letters must refer to the applicant's potential to teach laboratory sections in the biological sciences); and
4. Official report of scores on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or the Subject Test in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology. The applicant should have taken this examination well prior to applying to the Department, because the official score must reach the Department by the deadlines above.
These materials must be submitted to the Department's Graduate Office.
Review by the Graduate Studies Committee
The Graduate Studies Committee will review all folders completed by the deadlines and either accept the applicant as a Classified or Conditionally Classified graduate student or deny admission. Acceptance is competitive and the GPA, the GRE Subject Test score, and the letters of recommendation will be weighed in the decision to accept or reject an applicant. All accepted students must contact the Graduate Advisor prior to their initial semester for counsel and orientation.
Admission to the Department of Biological Sciences as a Classified Graduate Student
The Department of Biological Sciences will admit as a Classified graduate student any applicant who:
1. has met all prerequisites;
2. has a complete folder of all required documents; and
3. has obtained acceptance by a faculty member as the Chair of the student's Thesis Committee. The student and faculty should then set up a program (see "The Program of Study," below).
Admission to the Department of Biological Sciences as a Conditionally Classified Graduate Student
An applicant who fails to meet the criteria above for Classified admission to the Department and who falls into one of the following three categories may be considered by the Graduate Studies Committee for admission as Conditionally Classified graduate student:
1. An applicant with course and/or unit deficiencies. The Graduate Studies Committee will determine what deficiencies each applicant has and indicate on the back of the Department Application Form which course(s) the applicant must take to make up those deficiencies. These courses are in addition to the minimum 30 units on the student's Program of Study (see below). The applicant must make up all such deficiencies before attaining Classified status;
2. An applicant with GPA deficiencies. An applicant with an undergraduate GPA in science and mathematics courses between 2.50 and 2.75 and a GPA in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of science and mathematics courses between 2.75 and 3.00 may secure admission as a Conditionally Classified graduate student. The applicant must first obtain sponsorship from a Department of Biological Sciences faculty member; this faculty member must indicate in writing to the Graduate Studies Committee willingness to serve as the Chair of the applicant's thesis committee and the reasons why the Graduate Studies Committee should admit the applicant. Thus, applicants with a low GPA must contact potential thesis advisors before the Graduate Studies Committee can consider the application. In addition, an applicant receiving the Conditionally Classified status must complete, with a grade of "A" or "B," three approved courses totaling at least nine units acceptable to the Graduate Studies Committee and the Department Chair before attaining Classified status. These approved courses may appear on the student's Graduate Program of Study. If the applicant receives less than a "B" in any of the three courses, the applicant will be dropped from the M.S. in Microbiology program. An applicant who fails to meet the GPA criteria for normal, Classified admission and has either an undergraduate GPA in science and mathematics courses of less than 2.50 or a GPA in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of science and mathematics courses of less than 2.75 is not eligible for admission to the M.S. in Microbiology degree program.
3. An applicant who has scored below the 50th percentile on the GRE Subject Test; and
4. An applicant who meets all prerequisites but who does not yet have a Chair for the Thesis Committee. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain a Chair and set up a proposed graduate program by the end of the second semester in residence following admission to the Master of Science program or they will be dropped from the program.
The Program of Study
After admission to the Department as a Classified or Conditionally Classified graduate student, the student, in consultation with the Thesis Chair, must establish a Program of Study that includes the program of classes and a thesis proposal. The student and Thesis Committee Chair will select at least two additional members to serve on the student's Thesis Committee. The Departmental Graduate Advisor serves as an ex-officio member of all thesis committees. Each student must prepare a written thesis proposal for approval by the student's Thesis Committee. The Thesis Committee will meet with the student to determine what courses the student must take and indicate them on the M.S. in Microbiology Graduate Program Form.
The Program of Study will include the completion of a minimum of 30 semester units. At least 20 of these units must be in the 500-600 level courses of which a minimum of 16 units must be in the Microbiology 500-600 series. Required courses, if not taken previously, include: MICR 371 or an upper division/graduate course in genetics; MICR 471 or an upper division/graduate course in cell physiology; MICR 661 (two enrollments with different topics for a total of 4 units is required); BIOL 696, MICR 697 (maximum of 3 units); and MICR 698 (6 units). Other elective units included in the graduate program must be 400-600 level courses acceptable to the University and microbiology degree program. No 300-level courses may be included.
The Program of Study must be established before the end of the second semester after admission to the Department; in addition, the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR) must be fulfilled and a score at, or above, the 50th percentile on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology must be achieved by this time. Failure to meet these requirements will result in dismissal from the Department's M.S. in Microbiology program.
Advancement to Candidacy
In addition to the general University requirements stated previously under Post-Baccalaureate and Graduate Degrees in this Catalog, the student must complete the following steps before receiving Candidate status in the Department of Biological Sciences:
1. Admission to the Department of Biological Sciences Master's Degree program as a Classified graduate student (see above);
2. Achievement of a score at, or above, the 50th percentile on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Biology or the Subject Test in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology. This requirement must be met by the end of the second semester in residence. Normally, students not meeting this requirement will be dropped from the program. Only in cases where English is not the student's native language or if a disability impedes the student's performance may an alternative be petitioned. In these cases, the Chair of her/his Thesis Committee must petition, in writing, the Graduate Studies Committee to provide an alternate method for meeting this requirement. This petition must provide full documentation of the student's progress to date, professional promise, and a schedule for meeting all degree requirements. If granted, the alternate method will consist of an exam, oral and/or written, in which the student must demonstrate extensive knowledge of the subject areas covered in the appropriate GRE Subject Test. The exam committee will consist of the Department Graduate Advisor and three faculty members selected by the Graduate Studies Committee. No member of the student's Thesis Committee may serve on this committee; and
3. Establishment of a Thesis Committee and Program of Study (see above). Upon evidence of satisfactory progress and saisfactory fulfillment of the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR), the Thesis Committee may recommend the student for advancement to candidacy by forwarding its recommendation to the Department Graduate Advisor, Department Chair, and Associate Dean for Graduate Accountability in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. This should occur at least one year before graduation. Upon approval by the Associate Dean, the student will attain the status of Classified graduate standing.
Requirements for the Master of Science in Microbiology
In addition to the general University requirements stated previously in this catalog, the student must meet the following requirements before receiving the degree of Master of Science in Microbiology.
1. Advancement to candidacy (see above);
2. Maintenance of a 3.00 ("B" average), or better, overall graduate grade point average (includes all upper-division and graduate level courses taken since admission to this University and after completion of the baccalaureate degree) and graduate program GPA. If either GPA falls below 3.00, it must be elevated to a 3.00 at the end of the following semester or the student will be dropped from the M.S. in Microbiology program;
3. Completion of a written thesis and an oral defense of this thesis, followed by a public presentation of the thesis research. The members of the candidate's Thesis Committee must have approved the thesis and the defense before a student may schedule the public presentation. The student may not defend the thesis or give a public presentation during the summer term; and
4. Serve as a teaching associate or graduate assistant. Under some circumstances, this requirement may be waived.
Requests to graduate must be received by Enrollment Services approximately 6 months in advance of the expected graduation date (check the Schedule of Classes for the date).
These requirements must be completed within 6 years from when the first course on the Program of Study was completed, including academic leaves, or the student's degree program will be terminated.