welcome to BSCI

The Biological Sciences (BSCI) major offers rigorous exposure to the modern experimental disciplines within Biology. The curriculum includes foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Upper-level courses are organized into specialization areas, aligned with the major research areas in modern biology ranging from molecular and cellular studies to ecosystem studies.

Undergraduates have opportunities to do cutting-edge, modern research under the supervision of faculty who are at the top of their research fields. Our curriculum is designed to provide a broad and comprehensive education from which students can pursue a wide variety of post-secondary opportunities, including those in professional/graduate education, the federal government, and the private sector.

academic expectations

All students in the Biological Sciences program are expected to create a concrete graduation plan with a CMNS Peer Mentor, learn the outstanding courses they are to complete, and to meet the Major LEP-Benchmark Requirements to continue studying and earn their degree. Students are also expected to adhere to both University and College Academic Policies.

None of these tasks are done alone as BSCI Terps work collaboratively with Academic Advisors to both realize and further their personal, professional, and academic success. Need help making an informed decision? Meet with Your Assigned Advisor.

Completing the Bsci major

current students are highly recommended to review before and during sessions with their assigned academic advisor.

  1. Major LEP-Benchmark Requirements

  2. Curriculum & Graduation Planning

  3. Dates and Deadlines (Office of the University Registrar)

  4. Academic Policies (College of CMNS)

  5. u.achieve, Maryland’s Degree Audit System

  6. Learning Outcomes for the BSCI Major

  7. Syllabi for the Major’s Basic Program

What can I do with a biological sciences Degree?

Biological Sciences students are broadly trained and, as a result, have diverse career paths. Our students work in an array of fields including medicine, public health, environmental science, biotechnology, law, and education.

They work in governmental and non-governmental agencies, zoos/aquaria, and private foundations. Many of our students pursue postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, allied health fields, or research (MS/Ph.D. and MD/Ph.D.).

For illustrated career paths, please review the following resources. If you have more questions about career opportunities, you may consult with your Academic Advisor or with a Career Advisor from the University Career Center.

illustrated Career packet

Careers by major specialization

OCCUPATIONAL outlook HANDBOOK

United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

The Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is an online resource that documents hundreds of occupations across the labor spectrum. Each profile includes a job outlook of the occupation’s projected growth in the near future, as well as earning potential. The site also features a section on the fastest-growing occupations.

Read more about job trends in the Biological Sciences and other majors via the University Career Center (UCC).

switch to the bsci major

The Biological Sciences major is a Limited Enrollment Program (LEP), meaning there are gateway requirements that students need to complete before they can apply and become admitted into the major. 

Learn how to complete your switch to BSCI on this webpage for Future Students.

NOTE: If you are a high school student or a student with fewer than 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of university-level credit beyond secondary school, you should get started by applying to the University as a freshman applicant. Learn more through UMD’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions.