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Biology Minor

Supplement your education with an understanding of modern research, critical thinking, essential biological concepts, quantitative reasoning and broad exposure to biology.

A minor in Biology allows you to explore the science of living things. Take on an increasingly important role that grapples with global issues such as overpopulation and climate change.

Program type:
Minor
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
2-3 years
Credit hours:
20

Why minor in Biology?

The biological sciences will play an increasingly important role in coming years, as society grapples with global issues such as overpopulation and climate change. With a Biology minor from UND, you'll gain:

  • An understanding of modern research techniques
  • Critical-thinking skills
  • A strong understanding of essential biological concepts
  • Quantitative reasoning ability
  • Broad exposure to all levels of biological organization, from molecules to ecosystems

What majors pair well with a Biology minor?

Pairing a Biology minor with certain majors can enhance your skill set and broaden your career options in fields such as healthcare, research, and environmental science. Alternatively, you can deepen your expertise with a bachelor of Biology degree. Here are some bachelor’s degrees that pair well with a Biology minor:

  • Biomedical Engineering Degree: Combining a Biology minor with biomedical engineering merges principles of engineering with biological sciences. Students who are planning on applying to medical school may pursue the pre-medicine route in biomedical engineering.
  • Environmental Studies Degree: Environmental science explores the interaction between living organisms and their environment. You'll be ready for careers focused on studying and managing ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability.
  • Fisheries & Wildlife Biology Degree: This major focuses on the study and conservation of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, which aligns well with a Biology minor.
  • Molecular & Integrative Biology Degree: This major delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying biological processes, providing a complementary perspective to a Biology minor.

Biology Minor Highlights

  • Build strong research and communication skills by participating in interactive classes and graduate and faculty research projects.

  • Engage in independent studies under direct faculty supervision.

  • Work in state-of-the-art facilities including two greenhouses, animal rooms for terrestrial and aquatic organisms, tissue culture facilities, a biology core molecular facility and four field stations.

  • Participate in internships or experiential learning supported by local and national programs such as the National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (NSF-REU) and the National Institutes of Health Summer Undergraduate Biomedical Research Experience (SUBRE).

  • You'll have the opportunity to tailor your coursework to your primary areas of research, whether it's conservation biology, grassland ecology, or study of animals and their parasites.

  • Join organizations such a the Wildlife Society and North American Vascular Biology Association (NAVBO).

Biology Minor Courses

BIOL 315. Genetics. 3 Credits.

An introduction to genetics, with emphasis on classical genetic analysis and the biochemistry of gene transmission, expression and regulation. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or an equivalent approved by the department. F.

BIOL 439. Conservation Biology. 3 Credits.

A course that integrates information from the disciplines of ecology, genetics, biogeography, economics, environmental policy, and ethics towards understanding how to maintain and restore biological diversity. F, odd years.

BIOL 364. Parasitology. 2 Credits.

Classification, structure, functions, and life-cycles of parasites having importance to human, wildlife and veterinary health. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L. F, odd years.

BIOL 336. Systematic Botany. 4 Credits.

Morphology, evolution, and classification of vascular plants with emphasis on the flora of the Great Plains. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or permission of instructor. F, even years.

BIOL 332. General Ecology. 3 Credits.

An introduction to ecology. Covers the relationship of individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems to their biotic and abiotic environments. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or an equivalent approved by the department. F.

BIOL 410. Molecular Biology Techniques. 4 Credits.

Applications of DNA and RNA analysis and recombinant DNA technologies, emphasizing practical experience in the laboratory. This class will meet twice a week for 50 minutes in the classroom, and students will be expected to work approximately 4-6 hours a week in the lab during open lab times. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 315 is recommended. S.

Leading in the Field

UND researchers are studying the burning of grasslands and the long-term benefits to biodiversity.

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