To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Major GPA | C |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 125 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
| Research | Optional |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
Biology is the study of life and living organisms—their structure & organization, development, evolution, distribution and interactions. The major offers a modern, balanced, and comprehensive treatment of biology, emphasizing critical analysis of information and integration among its sub-disciplines. At NAU, all students take foundations courses that address fundamental biological concepts: cellular & molecular processes, genetics & inheritance, and ecological and evolutionary theory. Then, students complete the major by selecting the courses in biology that best serve their individual interests. Upper-division biology courses hone into areas of physiology, evolution, ecological systems, genetics or cell theory. Our graduates attain the high-level scientific inquiry skills and have practiced the research methods needed to compete in graduate and professional schools and to succeed in the workplace.
Student Learning Outcomes
Take the following 66 units including 40 units of Biology and Biology-related courses with a Grade of "C" or better:
Select one of the following junior-level writing requirement options (3-5 units):
(Note: The Department of Biological Sciences is phasing out the BIO 305W course and transitioning to the BIO 365W course for its majors).Please note many of the following major requirements also satisfy Liberal Studies requirements.
Select one of the following organic chemistry sequences:
All prerequisite coursework must also be completed with grades of C or better.
The Department of Biological Sciences does not allow dual majors within the department.
If you are considering a minor, 18 units of qualifying chemistry satisfy the requirements for the Minor in Chemistry.
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.