Bachelor of Arts in General Biology

Program Scope The Department of Biology provides undergraduate and graduate programs covering the breadth of biology. Course work ranges from introductory biology to specialized courses in broad disciplines of biology. The department has grouped courses into concentrations to help advise students of appropriate programs of study in various biology disciplines. Each concentration provides breadth of background in basic biological concepts as well as depth in the specific discipline. Students should consult with an advisor early in their program of study to design an individualized program within the concentration of interest. Students are responsible for information posted at the department web site (http://biology.sfsu.edu) and in a weekly e-mail bulletin, which declared majors will receive, as well as for complying with University, college and department requirements. Graduate degree programs provide advanced course work, seminar experiences, and require a written thesis or research project. The master’s degrees provide substantial educational depth and training, giving the student a sound foundation for employment or for study in doctoral programs. Research Facilities State-of-the-Art Greenhouse Harry D. Thiers Herbarium Genomics and Transcriptions Analysis Center (GTAC) Molecular Genetics Laboratory (MGLab), Electron Microscope Facility Cell and Molecular Imaging Center (CMIC) Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies Sierra Nevada Field Campus Moss Landing Marine Laboratories Collaborative Programs: Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies Opportunities for graduate and undergraduate study in marine biology are enhanced by the Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies (RTC), SF State’s marine and estuarine research and teaching laboratory situated on San Francisco Bay in Marin County. RTC faculty and research scientists offer courses in marine and estuarine sciences, a Masters of Science in Marine Science, and supervise graduate student research and undergraduate independent study projects. California Academy of Sciences The Department of Biology and the California Academy of Sciences (CAS) have instituted a program that builds on the complementary strengths of each institution to address the national and international imperative of training biologists in systematics, ecology, and conservation biology. Curators from CAS who have joined the department as research professors contribute to the teaching program, offer seminars and other courses at CAS and supervise graduate student research. The facilities and collections of the academy are available for selected students pursuing research in the biological sciences. Career Outlook This is an exciting time for graduates with degrees in biology. New breakthroughs in understanding living systems are leading to the development of new career opportunities at a rapid rate. In this regard, the undergraduate degrees can open the door to excellent career opportunities in industry, health care, public agencies, secondary school teaching, academia, and many other areas. Many graduates enter careers in the biotechnology industry, in the health professions, and environmental and conservation biology. High level positions in industry and academia commonly require advanced graduate work. The bachelor of science degrees are designed to give students the training they need to enter doctoral or master’s programs in biology and related disciplines. Each year many SF State biology graduates are accepted into doctoral programs across the country. SF State’s biology programs also have a strong record of placing students in medical and dental schools.