Undergraduate Study in Biology and Biotechnology

The Department of Biology offers majors in biology and in biotechnology, as well as a minor in biology and an accelerated dual degree program (B.S. + M.S.) in Forest Biology.

Within the biology major, students may choose a concentration, if desired, in Ecology and Environmental Biology, Microbiology, or Neuroscience.

For current major requirements, please refer to the official JMU undergraduate catalog (click on "Majors" and "Biology" or Biotechnology").

The Biology major is flexible and can be tailored to the interests and needs of the individual student. The program comprises a four-semester core and the opportunity to tailor your upper division curriculum. The diverse selection of upper division courses includes:

For a full description of the major and current courses offered, see the catalog.

The department of biology also offers a four year, interdisciplinary B.S. degree program for a major in biotechnology in cooperation with the department of integrated science and technology and the department of chemistry and biochemistry.

Our Dual Degree in Forest Biology program makes it possible for students to earn a B.S. degree in biology from James Madison University and a Master of Forestry degree from Virginia Tech in five years.