May 02, 2026  
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Biology, Human Biology Concentration, B.S.


The human biology concentration emphasizes biology related to human health and disease. It provides a robust foundation for careers in health-related sciences. Students who graduate with this degree are well prepared for programs in medicine and dentistry. 

Program Requirements


  • Minimum number of credits (exclusive of the University’s Core Curriculum) required for the emphasis in human biology: 76.
  • Minimum grade requirement for major courses listed below: C- or higher.

Upper Level Lecture/Laboratory Coursework (9-10 credits)


One lecture/laboratory combination from each of the following two areas:

Area A Lecture/Lab Courses: Cellular, Molecular, and Functional Biology

Area B Lecture/Lab Courses: Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology

Area B may include up to 4 credits of Environmental Science courses:

Additional Upper Level Biology Coursework (5 credits)


5 additional credits from any course numbered 200 or above. 

Courses taken to satisfy other requirements may not count toward these credits.

Options include:

Additional Biology or Chemistry Coursework with an Emphasis on Biochemistry (5-6 credits)


Choose one of the following pairs of courses:

Biology Seminar Requirement (2-3 credits)


All biology majors must take a biology seminar course, preferably in the senior year. These courses also satisfy the core capstone and WRI3 requirements.

Additional required courses:


In addition, the biology major must satisfactorily complete all of the following courses. Students also must fulfill the University Core Curriculum requirements, including a Capstone course in the major.

Major Courses that Satisfy Core Requirements


Students are encouraged to explore Core courses that also count towards their major or minor. Courses listed below are part of this major and also satisfy University Core Curriculum requirements. Course lists that satisfy each requirement can be found on the Core Curriculum webpage.

 

  • Writing, Reading, and Inquiry 3: BIO 407 BIO 421   

  • Quantitative Reasoning: MAT 152   

  • Creative Expression: 

  • Cultural Interpretation: 

  • Science Exploration: BIO 107 /BIO 108    

  • Socio-cultural Analysis:

  • Ethical Inquiry, Social Responsibility, and Citizenship:

  • Culture, Power, and Equity:

  • International: 

  • Engaged Learning: BIO 443 CHY 252 

  • Capstone: BIO 407 BIO 421    

     

USM Core Requirements


Students must complete all Core and degree requirements as part of the Graduation Requirements. For more information, see Academic Policies.

The USM Core Curriculum provides a coherent, integrative, and rigorous liberal arts education that fulfills general education requirements. It is designed to help students become globally aware, purposeful, and lifelong learners.

Please Note: Core requirements may be part of your major and/or minor, and Core may have been fulfilled with transfer credit. Please consult your MaineStreet Degree Progress Report (DPR) and review your degree progress with your Advisor.  For additional information, access the USM Core webpage.