Biological Sciences

The Biological Sciences program at Cornell University offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of biology, as well as opportunities for specialized study and research in various subfields. Students in this program explore the diversity of life, from molecular and cellular biology to ecology and evolution, equipping them with the analytical skills and scientific knowledge necessary for a wide range of careers in research, healthcare, environmental conservation, biotechnology, education, and beyond. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry, encouraging students to develop a deep understanding of biological processes and their applications. The curriculum includes core courses in genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, physiology, and ecology, along with electives that allow students to tailor their education toward areas such as computational biology, developmental biology, immunology, and more. Students also have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and opportunities to participate in laboratory research projects alongside renowned faculty members. The program supports interdisciplinary learning and fosters collaboration, preparing students for graduate study, professional degrees, or direct entry into the workforce. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, fieldwork, and research, the Biological Sciences program at Cornell aims to cultivate the next generation of scientists, environmentalists, health professionals, and educators who will contribute to advancing our understanding of living systems and addressing biological challenges facing society today and in the future.

1. Introductory Biology Cluster:

 Take two of the three following subject areas:

• BIOG 1440 - Introductory Biology: Comparative Physiology or
• BIOG 1445 - Introduction to Comparative Anatomy and Physiology, Individualized Instruction    
• BIOMG 1350 - Introductory Biology: Cell and Developmental Biology

•  

• BIOEE 1610 - Introductory Biology: Ecology and the Environment or
• BIOSM 1610 - Ecology and the Marine Environment

2. Investigative Laboratory:

• BIOG 1500 - Investigative Biology Laboratory or
• BIOSM 1500 - Investigative Marine Biology Laboratory (Shoals Marine Lab)

3. Evolutionary Biology and Diversity:

• BIOEE 1780 - An Introduction to Evolutionary Biology and Diversity or
• BIOSM 1780 - Evolution and Marine Diversity (Shoals Marine Lab)

4. General chemistry:

• CHEM 2070 - General Chemistry I and
• CHEM 2080 - General Chemistry II

• or

• CHEM 2150 - Honors General and Inorganic Chemistry

Note:

CHEM 2150 is intended for students who have earned a score of 5 on the CEEB AP Chemistry exam, or have equivalent preparation (to be determined by the Chemistry Department).  Students who have earned a score of 5 on the CEEB AP Chemistry exam will receive credit for CHEM 2070/2090.  Students taking CHEM 2070 or 2090 will forfeit AP credit.  Students taking CHEM 2150 will retain AP credit.  Students may also receive credit for CHEM 2070or CHEM 2090 by passing an exam given during Fall orientation.  See chemistry.cornell.edu for further information.  Cornell advises medical schools that Chemistry AP credit, together with completion of CHEM 2150, is the equivalent of 8 credits of introductory chemistry, such as CHEM 2070 - CHEM 2080.

5. College mathematics:

Two courses: One semester of calculus (MATH 1106, MATH 1110, or their equivalent) plus one semester selected from a, b, or c:

a. A second semester of calculus:

• MATH 1120 - Calculus II

• or

• MATH 1910 - Calculus for Engineers
• or equivalent

b. A course in finite mathematics:

• MATH 1105 - Finite Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences

c. One course in statistics (STSCI 2150 or BTRY 3010 are preferred):

• STSCI 2150 - Introductory Statistics for Biology
• BTRY 3010 - Biological Statistics I (crosslisted)
• MATH 1710 - Statistical Theory and Application in the Real World
• AEM 2100 - Introductory Statistics
• PSYCH 3500 - Statistics and Research Design
• ECON 3130 - Statistics and Probability
• SOC 3010 - Evaluating Statistical Evidence

6. Organic chemistry:

• CHEM 1570 - Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry

• or

• CHEM 3570 - Organic Chemistry for the Life Sciences and
• CHEM 3580 - Organic Chemistry for the Life Sciences

• or

• CHEM 3590 - Honors Organic Chemistry I and
• CHEM 3600 - Honors Organic Chemistry II

• or

• CHEM 3530 - Principles of Organic Chemistry

Note:

Some biological sciences concentrations require one semester of organic chemistry laboratory. See the specific concentration requirements for more details. In addition, medical, dental, and veterinary schools, as well as some masters and PhD programs may expect students to take organic chemistry laboratory.  Please refer to the appropriate Cornell Career Services Guide for more information.

7. Physics:

• PHYS 1101 - General Physics I and
• PHYS 1102 - General Physics II

• or

• PHYS 2207 - Fundamentals of Physics I and
• PHYS 2208 - Fundamentals of Physics II

• or

• PHYS 1112 - Physics I: Mechanics & Heat and
• PHYS 2213 - Physics II: Electromagnetism

Note:

Those who take PHYS 1112 and PHYS 2213 are advised to complete PHYS 2214 as well in order to have full coverage of Introductory Physics material.

8. Genetics and Genomics:

• BIOMG 2800 - Lectures in Genetics and Genomics AND
• BIOMG 2801 - Laboratory in Genetics and Genomics

Note:

The lecture must be taken either concurrently or in advance of the laboratory. It is strongly encouraged that these two course requirements be taken prior to senior year. 

9. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology:

• BIOMG 3300 - Principles of Biochemistry, Individualized Instruction or
• BIOMG 3330 - Principles of Biochemistry: Proteins, Metabolism, and Molecular Biology or
• BIOMG 3350 - Principles of Biochemistry: Proteins, Metabolism, and Molecular Biology or
• BIOMG 3310 - Principles of Biochemistry: Proteins and Metabolism and
• BIOMG 3320 - Principles of Biochemistry: Molecular Biology

Note:

BIOMG 3330 and BIOMG 3350 are not allowed for those students concentrating in Biochemistry or Molecular and Cell Biology.

10. A concentration:

Students accepted into the biological sciences major must choose a concentration. Whereas the core requirements of the biology curriculum provide the common foundation deemed essential for all biology majors, the role of the concentration is to provide a focus in a particular area of biology. The concentration requirement can be met by taking 13 to 15 credit hours of courses chosen by the student in consultation with his or her biology advisor. Concentrations in particular subject areas are designed by faculty members specializing in the subject. Typically, the concentration consists of one or more courses that provide foundation in the subject and a list of optional courses from that area or related areas, the majority of which are at an advanced level (3000 or higher). Because biology is an experimental science, most concentrations require one or more laboratory courses. The laboratory requirement in some concentrations can be met by participation in the independent research course (BIOG 4990).

Note:

• Advanced placement biology credits are not accepted for substitution or placement out of any Introductory Biology course.
• Although not required for the biological sciences major, a course in statistics is recommended for all biology students. STSCI 2150 and BTRY 3010 are preferred course choices.
• Core courses noted in numbers 1–9 above cannot count toward the concentration requirements.
• Transfer students must see an advisor in the Office of Undergraduate Biology to determine the transferability of courses into the biology major and subsequent courses that must be completed.

Pre-medical/veterinary students not majoring in biological sciences:

• Pre-medical students should refer to the following link for a list of courses required for admission to medical school career.cornell.edu/paths/health/index.cfm
• Advanced placement biology credits may still be used toward fulfilling pre-medical/pre-veterinary prerequisite courses, but students should check Cornell Career Services, 103 Barnes Hall, for the listing of medical schools that recognize AP credit.
• Non–biological sciences majors should consult with their major advisor for course selection advice regarding freshmen-level biology courses that may be required of their major.

Requirements

• SAT or the ACT —CALS does not have SAT/ACT score requirements
• Landscape Architecture: Portfolio required
• International Students: TOEFL (score of 100 or better) or IELTS (score of 7) required
• The Common Application (CA) or Universal College Application (UCA)
• The School Report
• Counselor Recommendation
• Two Teacher Evaluations
• The Midyear Report, when your mid-year grades are available
• $80 application fee or fee waiver
• Official secondary/high school transcript
• Cornell University Questions and Writing Supplement (CA) or Cornell Supplement (UCA)

The Biological Sciences undergraduate program at Cornell University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition and fees vary depending on residency status, with in-state students paying lower rates than out-of-state students. For the academic year 2023-2024, undergraduate tuition for in-state students is approximately $68,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $63,000 per year. In addition to tuition, students should budget for fees, housing, dining, textbooks, and personal expenses, which can cumulatively amount to over $30,000 annually. Cornell University provides a range of financial aid opportunities, including need-based grants, merit scholarships, and fellowships. The university's Office of Financial Aid assists students in applying for federal and state aid programs, as well as institutional aid. Need-based grants are awarded based on family financial circumstances, and the application process requires submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. Merit scholarships are awarded to students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement, leadership, or other talents, often without regard to financial need. The university also offers work-study programs that allow students to gain work experience and earn funds towards their education. Cornell encourages students to explore external funding sources, such as private scholarships, foundation grants, and government loans. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive counseling to help students navigate their options and develop affordable financing plans. Furthermore, students may consider federal student loans, which have favorable interest rates and flexible repayment options. It is recommended that students apply early for financial aid to maximize their chances of receiving aid packages. The cost of attendance may be offset by awarded financial aid packages, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for students. For international students, funding opportunities are more limited but may include merit-based scholarships, grants, and external funding sources. Students should consult the university's official financial aid website for the most current information on costs, deadlines, and available aid options related to the Biological Sciences program. Overall, Cornell University provides a robust financial support system aimed at making a biology education accessible and affordable for qualified students from diverse backgrounds.

The Biological Sciences program at Cornell University offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, education, and industry. The program emphasizes fundamental principles of biology, including molecular, cellular, developmental, organismal, and evolutionary biology, providing students with a strong foundation in scientific inquiry and experimentation. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects across various subfields, such as genetics, ecology, microbiology, biochemistry, and neurobiology. The department maintains state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, fostering an environment that encourages innovation and discovery. Students can choose from a range of specialized courses to tailor their education to their interests and career goals, and they are often encouraged to participate in internships, fieldwork, and collaborative research experiences. The program also includes professional development components, such as seminars, workshops, and networking events, supporting students in building skills for future employment or graduate studies. Additionally, Cornell's Biological Sciences program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, connecting biology with areas like computer science, engineering, and environmental science to address complex biological questions. Undergraduate students are supported by dedicated faculty members who are leading experts in their fields, and they have opportunities to present their research at academic conferences and publish in scientific journals. Overall, the Biological Sciences program at Cornell University aims to produce well-rounded graduates equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, prepared for the rapidly advancing fields of biology and life sciences.