At which campus can I study this program?
Program Description
Not all options are available at every campus. Contact the campus you are interested in attending to determine which options are offered.
The Science major is an interdisciplinary degree that aims to provide a broad, general education in science. The bachelor of science (B.S.) curriculum is designed specifically for students who have education goals relating to scientific theory and practice and who require a high degree of flexibility to obtain their educational objectives. After completing foundation courses in calculus, chemistry, physics, and the life sciences, students will select additional science courses from designated areas. A large number of supporting credits permit students to readily include significant breadth or specialization into their undergraduate curriculum. Some examples include minors in business, computer and information science, education, kinesiology, or other fields. The degree allows students throughout the Commonwealth to become familiar with both the theory and the practice of science. It can help prepare students for various careers in pharmaceutical, biotechnical, chemical, medical, and agricultural industries. The degree can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of professional programs such as medical, dental, or pharmacy schools.
The Science major is an interdisciplinary degree that aims to provide a broad, general education in science. The bachelor of science (B.S.) curriculum is designed specifically for students who have education goals relating to scientific theory and practice and who require a high degree of flexibility to obtain their educational objectives. After completing foundation courses in calculus, chemistry, physics, and the life sciences, students will select additional science courses from designated areas. A large number of supporting credits permit students to readily include significant breadth or specialization into their undergraduate curriculum. Some examples include minors in business, computer and information science, education, kinesiology, or other fields. The degree allows students throughout the Commonwealth to become familiar with both the theory and the practice of science. It can help prepare students for various careers in pharmaceutical, biotechnical, chemical, medical, and agricultural industries. The degree can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of professional programs such as medical, dental, or pharmacy schools.
General Science Option
Available at the following campuses: Abington, Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, University Park, York
The General Science option of the B.S. Science degree allows for the most flexibility.
Achievement in a more specialized set of goals can be met by selecting one of the other B.S. options offered:
Biological Sciences and Health Professions Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
Life Sciences Option
Available at the following campuses: Abington, Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, University Park, York
Mathematical Sciences Option
Available at the following campuses: Abington, Altoona
Physical Sciences Option
Available at the following campuses: Altoona
Not all of these options are available at all locations, and there are minor distinctions of the core curriculum at some locations, so see the Science program director at your College for further details.
Two-Year Preprofessional Preparation
The first two years of the Science major (62 credits) can meet the pre professional needs of those interested in admission to some schools of pharmacy, physical therapy, optometry, nursing, and physician assistant training. Successful students can then transfer after two years of undergraduate study to the professional school to which they are admitted. Note, however, that no Penn State degree can be awarded after only two years (62 credits) of study in the Science major. Also, note that the abbreviated two-year curriculum alone does not prepare students for admission to professional schools of general medicine, veterinary medicine, or dental medicine. Consult with your college's health sciences professional adviser for additional information.
What is Science?
The Science major provides a broad and interdisciplinary foundation in the natural sciences. The Science BS program uses the principles of chemistry, physics, and life sciences to understand how these integrate over general areas including biological sciences and health professions, public policy, and science research and development.
You Might Like This Program If...
- You like learning by doing hands-on experiments.
- You are curious about the natural world and how science disciplines come together to explore and understand it.
- You are intrigued by science and desire a career in current and emerging interdisciplinary science disciplines, health professions, or melding science with law, policy or business.
Entrance to Major
In order to be eligible for entrance to the Science major, a student at any location must have:
Degree Requirements
For the Bachelor of Science degree in Science, a minimum of 124 credits is required, with at least 15 credits at the 400 level:
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
| General Education | 45 |
| Requirements for the Major | 94 |
15 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: 9 credits of GN courses; 6 credits of GQ courses.
Requirements for the Major
To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.
Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I  | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II | 1 |
| MATH 141 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 4 |
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| Requirements for the Option | ||
| Select an option | 74 | |
Requirements for the Option
General Science Option (74 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Abington, Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, University Park, York
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select 4 credits of the following: | 4 | |
| Mammalian Anatomy | ||
| Introduction to Human Physiology and Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Biology: Populations and Communities | ||
| Biology: Molecules and Cells | ||
| Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | ||
| Select 3-4 credits of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Elementary Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
STAT 301 | ||
| Experimental Methods | ||
| Select 8-12 credits of the following: | 8-12 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics 1 | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II 1 | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation. | ||
| Select 21-26 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC) | 21-26 | |
| Select 3 credits from earth and mineral sciences | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness from department approved course list in consultation with adviser | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication from department approved course list in consultation with adviser | 3 | |
| Select 6 credits of 400-level courses | 6 | |
| Supporting and Related Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 18 credits in life, mathematical, or physical sciences, with at least 9 credits at the 400 level 2,3 | 18 | |
- 1
- 2
Only the 9 credits at the 400 level require a grade of C or better.
- 3
Physical sciences include ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS; mathematical sciences include CMPSC, MATH, STAT; life sciences include BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB.
Biological Sciences and Health Professions Option (74 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| HPA 101 | Introduction to Health Services Organization | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select 4 credits of the following: | 4 | |
| Mammalian Anatomy | ||
| Biology: Populations and Communities | ||
| Biology: Molecules and Cells | ||
| Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | ||
| Introduction to Human Physiology and Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Select 3-4 credits of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Elementary Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
STAT 301 | ||
| Experimental Methods | ||
| Select 6-8 credits of the following: | 6-8 | |
| Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Genetics | ||
| Genetic Analysis | ||
| Elementary Biochemistry | ||
| Molecular and Cell Biology I | ||
| Introductory Microbiology | ||
| Select 8-12 credits of the following: | 8-12 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics 2 | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II 2 | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation. | ||
| Select 15 credits from program list for Healthcare/ Medicine/Ethical Competencies 1 | 15 | |
| Select 10-17 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC) | 10-17 | |
| Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness from department approved course list in consultation with adviser | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication from department approved course list in consultation with adviser | 3 | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 9 credits of 400-level BMB, BIOL, BIOTC, or MICRB courses | 9 | |
- 1
Six credits must be at the 400-level. Select from department approved course list in consultation with adviser.
- 2
Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy Option (74 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select 4 credits of the following: | 4 | |
| Mammalian Anatomy | ||
| Introduction to Human Physiology and Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Biology: Populations and Communities | ||
| Biology: Molecules and Cells | ||
| Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | ||
| Select 3-4 credits of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Elementary Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
STAT 301 | ||
| Experimental Methods | ||
| Select 8-12 credits of the following: | 8-12 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics 1 | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II 1 | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Select 12-17 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC) | 12-17 | |
| Select 18 credits from program list for Legal Studies, Government Service, Public Policy 2 | 18 | |
| Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness from department approved course list in consultation with adviser | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication from department approved course list in consultation with adviser | 3 | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 18 credits in life, mathematical, or physical sciences, with at least 9 credits at the 400 level 3,4 | 18 | |
- 1
- 2
Six credits must be at the 400-level. Select from department approved course list in consultation with adviser.
- 3
Only the 9 credits at the 400 level require a grade of C or better.
- 4
Physical sciences include ASTRO, CHEM, PHYS; mathematical sciences include CMPSC, MATH, STAT; life sciences include BIOL, BIOTC, BMB, MICRB.
Life Science Option (74 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Abington, Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg, Scranton, University Park, York
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select 4 credits of the following: | 4 | |
| Biology: Populations and Communities | ||
| Biology: Molecules and Cells | ||
| Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Programming | ||
| Ordinary Differential Equations | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Elementary Biochemistry | ||
| Molecular and Cell Biology I | ||
| Introductory Microbiology | ||
| Select 6-8 credits of the following: | 6-8 | |
| Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | ||
| Select 8-12 credits of the following: | 8-12 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics 1 | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II 1 | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study 296, 496 may be applied toward credits for graduation. | ||
| Select 23-29 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC) | 23-29 | |
| Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication | 3 | |
| Select 6 credits of 400-level courses | 6 | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 9 credits of 400-level BMB, BIOL, BIOTC, or MICRB courses | 9 | |
Mathematical Science Option (74 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Abington, Altoona
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| CMPSC 122 | Intermediate Programming | 3 |
| MATH 220 | Matrices | 2-3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| CMPSC 360 | Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science | 3-4 |
| or MATH 311W | Concepts of Discrete Mathematics | |
| MATH 230 | Calculus and Vector Analysis | 4 |
| or MATH 251 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations | |
| STAT 301 | 3 | |
| or STAT 318 | Elementary Probability | |
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Elementary Biochemistry | ||
| Molecular and Cell Biology I | ||
| Introductory Microbiology | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Programming Techniques | ||
| Programming for Engineers with C++ | ||
CMPSC 202 | ||
| Select 8-12 credits of the following: | 8-12 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism and General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics and General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics 1 | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II 1 | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation. | ||
| Select 18-24 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC) | 18-24 | |
| Select 6 credits of 400-level courses | 6 | |
| Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication | 3 | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 9 credits of 400-level CMPSC, CSE, MATH, or STAT courses | 9 | |
Physical Science Option (74 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Altoona
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| ASTRO 291 | Astronomical Methods and the Solar System | 3 |
| PHYS 212 | General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | 4 |
| PHYS 213 | General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics | 2 |
| PHYS 214 | General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics | 2 |
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| PHYS 211 | General Physics: Mechanics | 4 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Elementary Biochemistry | ||
| Molecular and Cell Biology I | ||
| Introductory Microbiology | ||
| Select 6-8 credits of the following: | 6-8 | |
| Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | ||
| MATH 230 | Calculus and Vector Analysis | 4 |
| or MATH 251 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations | |
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Astronomy of the Distant Universe | ||
| Statics | ||
| Engineering Thermodynamics I | ||
| Introduction to Modern Physics | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| A maximum of 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be applied toward credits for graduation. | ||
| Select 20-22 credits from program list (Students may apply 6 credits of ROTC) | 20-22 | |
| Select 6 credits of 400-level courses | 6 | |
| Select 3 credits in Global, Social, and Personal Awareness | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits in Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication | 3 | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 9 credits of 400-level ASTRO, CHEM, or PHYS courses | 9 | |
General Education
Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.
The keystone symbol appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.
Foundations (grade of C or better is required.)
- Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
- Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits
Knowledge Domains
- Arts (GA): 6 credits
- Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 6 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 6 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 9 credits
Integrative Studies (may also complete a Knowledge Domain requirement)
- Inter-Domain or Approved Linked Courses: 6 credits
University Degree Requirements
First Year Engagement
All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.
Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.
First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.
Cultures Requirement
6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements
- United States Cultures: 3 credits
- International Cultures: 3 credits
Writing Across the Curriculum
3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.
Total Minimum Credits
A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.
Quality of Work
Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.
Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition
The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.
Program Learning Objectives
- Have a basic knowledge of the fundamental concepts in molecular, organismal, and population biology.
- Demonstrate the ability to use scientific and quantitative reasoning.
- Demonstrate the ability to retrieve scientific information, analyze scientific data, and use computers and scientific equipment in a laboratory setting.
- Demonstrate the ability to disseminate scientific findings through oral and written communication.
- Demonstrate the ability to work cooperative in teams.
Academic Advising
The objectives of the university’s academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.
Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.
READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY
Abington
Eric Ingersoll
Program Chair
1600 Woodland Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-881-7492
epi1@psu.edu
Altoona
Richard Bell
Associate Professor of Chemistry
104 Science Building
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5712
rcb155@psu.edu
Berks
Ike Shibley
Program Coordinator, Associate Professor
L101G
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6185
BKScience@psu.edu
Harrisburg
Sairam V. Rudrabhatla, Ph.D.
Program Chair
Science and Technology Building, TL 174
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-6560
svr11@psu.edu
Scranton
Agnes Kim
Associate Professor
120 Ridge View Drive
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2549
axk55@psu.edu
University Park
Science, B.S. Program
Beth Johnson
Director, Science Major
225B Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3889
bai107@psu.edu
Accelerated Science B.S./M.B.A. Program
Beth Johnson
Director, Science Major
225B Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3889
bai107@psu.edu
York
Anne Vardo-Zalik
Associate Professor of Biology
1 Elias Science Building
York, PA 17403
717-718-6705
amv12@psu.edu
Suggested Academic Plan
The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2022-23 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contains suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).
General Option: Science, B.S. at Abington Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H (GWS) | 3 | MATH 141 (GQ)† | 4 |
| MATH 140 (GQ)*† | 4 | BIOL 240W (GN) | 4 |
| BIOL 110 (GN)*† | 4 | CHEM 112 (GN)*† | 3 |
| CHEM 110 (GN)*† | 3 | CHEM 113 (GN) | 1 |
| CHEM 111 (GN)† | 1 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Health & Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 | ||
| 15 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 220W or 230W (GN) | 4 | Physical, Mathematical, or Life Science Course | 3 |
| Earth and Mineral Science Course | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| STAT 200 or 250 (GQ) | 3-4 | PHYS 251 (GN) | 4 |
| PHYS 250 (GN)* | 4 | ENGL 202C (GWS) | 3 |
| CAS 100A or 100B (GWS) | 3 | General Education Health and Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 17-18 | 14.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Physical, Mathematical, or Life Science Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3-4 |
| 400-Level Selection | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| Global, Social, and Personal Awareness | 3 | 400-Level Science* | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 15-16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| 400-Level Science* | 3 | Physical, Mathematical, or Life Science Course | 3 |
| 400-Level Selection | 3 | 400-Level Science* | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 123-125 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.
Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.
Disallowed Courses
Students may select free elective courses from nearly the entire range of the University’s offerings. However, the following courses may NOT be used to satisfy degree requirements in the Biology major, regardless of option, not even as free electives.
-
Courses which are remedial in nature or which focus on reading improvement or study skills. NOTE: Only 3 credits of CHEM 017 and only 4 credits of MATH 140A may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
-
Courses which substantially duplicate the subject matter covered in other completed courses taught at a comparable level.
-
No more than 6 credits of ROTC and 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be used to satisfy degree requirements. Unless special permission is granted, Independent Study credit may only be used in the “Free Electives” category.
-
No more than 5 credits of KINES may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
-
** On rare occasions, with adequate justification, a student may be permitted to use one or more of these courses to satisfy degree requirements. A petition must be submitted to request such an exception and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Life Sciences Option: Science, B.S. at Abington Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H (GWS) | 3 | MATH 141 (GQ)† | 4 |
| MATH 140 (GQ)*† | 4 | BIOL 240W (GN) | 4 |
| BIOL 110 (GN)*† | 4 | CHEM 112 (GN)*† | 3 |
| CHEM 110 (GN)*† | 3 | CHEM 113 (GN) | 1 |
| CHEM 111 (GN)† | 1 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Health & Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 | ||
| 15 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 220W or 230W (GN) | 4 | CHEM 212 | 3 |
| CHEM 210 | 3 | CHEM 213 | 2 |
| STAT 200, 250, MATH 250, or CMPSC 101 (GQ) | 3-4 | PHYS 251 (GN) | 4 |
| PHYS 250 (GN)* | 4 | ENGL 202C (GWS) | 3 |
| CAS 100A or 100B (GWS) | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| General Education Health and Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 | ||
| 17-18 | 16.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| 400-Level Science* | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 400-Level Selection | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| Global, Social, and Personal Awareness | 4 | 400-Level Science* | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | Teamwork and Interpersonal Communication | 4 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| 400-Level Science* | 3 | BMB 211 or MICRB 201 | 3 |
| 400-Level Selection | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 127-128 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.
Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.
Additional Notes
Students must take ONE of the following courses: BIOL 220W (GN), BIOL 230W (GN), or BIOL 240W (GN).
Disallowed Courses
Students may select free elective courses from nearly the entire range of the University’s offerings. However, the following courses may NOT be used to satisfy degree requirements in the Biology major, regardless of option, not even as free electives.
-
Courses which are remedial in nature or which focus on reading improvement or study skills. NOTE: Only 3 credits of CHEM 017 and only 4 credits of MATH 140A may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
-
Courses which substantially duplicate the subject matter covered in other completed courses taught at a comparable level.
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No more than 6 credits of ROTC and 12 credits of Independent Study (296, 496) may be used to satisfy degree requirements. Unless special permission is granted, Independent Study credit may only be used in the “Free Electives” category.
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No more than 5 credits of KINES may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
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** On rare occasions, with adequate justification, a student may be permitted to use one or more of these courses to satisfy degree requirements. A petition must be submitted to request such an exception and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Math Option: Science, B.S. at Abington Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H (GWS) | 3 | MATH 141 (GQ)† | 4 |
| MATH 140 (GQ)*† | 4 | CHEM 112 (GN)*† | 3 |
| BIOL 110 (GN)*† | 4 | CHEM 113 (GN) | 1 |
| CHEM 110 (GN)*† | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| CHEM 111 (GN)† | 1 | General Education Health & Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 |
| MATH 220 (GQ) | 2-3 | ||
| 15 | 14.5-15.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Earth and Mineral Science Course | 3 | MATH 311W or CMPSC 360 | 3-4 |
| CMPSC 121 (GQ) | 3 | CMPSC 122 | 3 |
| PHYS 250 or 211 (GN)* | 4 | PHYS 251 or 212 (GN) | 4 |
| CAS 100A or 100B (GWS) | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| MATH 230 or 251 | 4 | General Education Health and Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 17 | 14.5-15.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 202C (GWS) | 3 | General Educaton Course or PHYS 213 (GN) or PHYS 214 (GN) | 3-4 |
| STAT 301 (GQ) | Elective | 3 | |
| World Language Level 1 | 4 | World Language Level 2 | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| MATH 411 | 3 | MATH 412 or 418 | 3 |
| 13 | 16-17 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| MATH 451 | 3 | MATH 455 or 415 | 3 |
| MATH 484, 436, 449, 450, or 497 | 3 | BMB 211 or MICRB 201 | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 120-123 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.
Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.
Career Paths
Penn State students with a BS in Science are prepared for a broad range of careers and graduate programs. The solid foundation of science and math prepares students to think critically and scientifically in a range of industries and professions.
Careers
This program often leads to careers in all healthcare professions, including physicians and physician assistants, dentists, optometrists, and podiatrists; laboratory research associates; scientific product representatives and science-based consulting.
Opportunities for Graduate Studies
Many graduates of the Science B.S. program choose to pursue graduate studies (MS and PhD) in the natural sciences. Most often, students gravitate to medically-related fields and life science sub-disciplines for focused graduate training. Students in the legal studies and public policy options may choose law school or master's in public policy programs.
Professional Resources
- Association of American Medical Colleges
- American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine
- American Dental Education Association
- Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
- American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
- American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) Physician Assistant Education Association
Contact
Abington
DIVISION OF SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
1600 Woodland Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-881-7492
epi1@psu.edu
http://abington.psu.edu/science
Altoona
DIVISION OF MATHEMATICS AND NATURAL SCIENCES
104 Science Building
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5172
rcb155@psu.edu
https://altoona.psu.edu/academics/bachelors-degrees/science
Berks
DIVISION OF SCIENCE
Luerssen Science Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6185
BKScience@psu.edu
http://berks.psu.edu/bs-science
Harrisburg
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
Science & Tech Building, TL 177
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-4387
mrr53@psu.edu
https://harrisburg.psu.edu/science-engineering-technology/biology-science/bachelor-science-biology
Scranton
120 Ridge View Drive
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2549
axk55@psu.edu
https://scranton.psu.edu/science-program
University Park
Science, B.S. Program
SCIENCE MAJOR PROGRAM OFFICE
225B Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3889
bai107@psu.edu
https://science.psu.edu/interdisciplinary-programs/science-major
University Park
Accelerated Science B.S./M.B.A. Program
SCIENCE MAJOR PROGRAM OFFICE
225B Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3889
bai107@psu.edu
https://science.psu.edu/interdisciplinary-programs/science-major
York
1 Elias Science Building
York, PA 17403
717-718-6705
amv12@psu.edu