Contact Information
Mission Statement
The Department of Biological Sciences is a group of collaborative learners engaged in exploring the wonder and diversity of life at all levels of biological organization, from molecules to the biosphere. We strive to use evidence-based teaching strategies to provide students with broad exposure to the concepts, processes, and approaches of the biological sciences, in preparation for real-world applications. Our university is a Hispanic-Serving Institution with a high proportion of first-generation college students, and we value the strengths and cultural wealth our communities bring to science and education. Our department actively works to challenge educational inequity and exclusion through our teaching, mentoring, research, and community activities to foster social mobility in California's Central Valley.
About the Department
The Department of Biological Sciences offers programs of study in the life sciences for students seeking the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, a Master of Science in Marine Sciences, a Master of Science in Biological Sciences, or Master of Science in Genetic Counseling.
Students may also elect to complete a concentration in 1) General Biology, 2) Molecular, Cellular, and Microbial Biology, or 3) Organismal, Ecological, and Evolutionary Biology as part of either the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science. Students interested in marine biology and oceanography may elect coursework at the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories for partial fulfillment of their in-residence major and degree requirements.
Mandatory Advising
The Biology major is academically challenging and requires substantial coursework. To help students make good decisions about how to progress through the major in an efficient and successful manner, biology majors must meet with their major advisor during the fall and spring academic semesters before registering for classes.
Updated: April 18, 2025