We have prepared this Handbook to give you information about the organization of the Biology Division, our instructional programs, and career opportunities for biologists. We believe that it contains many useful tips that will help you navigate your way through the UGA toward your goal of a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Please keep it for reference throughout your career at UGA.
We have attempted to be as accurate as possible. However, typographical errors are possible and requirements and courses also change, so it is important to consult the Undergraduate Bulletin, the latest Biology Degree Checksheet and your advisor on a regular basis. Updates of this Handbook will be issued when needed.
Biology is the descriptive, quantitative and experimental science that investigates all aspects of microbiological, plant and animal life. The biological sciences range from comprehensive studies of ecosystems by ecologists, to studies of gene organization and expression by molecular biologists, to examination of the 3D structure of proteins and other macromolecules by structural biologists. Biologists work in all sorts of situations, from the tropics of Costa Rica to laboratories with the most advanced computers and microscopes. They work at universities, medical schools, private clinics, agribusinesses and pharmaceutical companies, government research units, and as private consultants. If you already know that you want to be a plant physiologist, cell biologist, insect taxonomist or marine biologist, for example, the Biology Program will give you the broad training needed to undertake additional studies in higher degree programs or seek careers in these fields. If you are uncertain about what area of biology interests you the most, the program will give you an opportunity to study its many specialized fields and, hopefully to focus more clearly on your goals.
The Biology Program will provide you with the necessary expertise and advice to allow you to finish a Biology Major and go on to the next level of training or employment. Ultimately, however, the responsibility is yours. All of the information on degree requirements, courses etc. is available in printed form in the Undergraduate Bulletin, this Handbook for Biology Majors, the Biology Checksheet, and OASIS booklets. You should avail yourself of all this information, and with the help of your advisor, plan an appropriate program of study. It isn't difficult, but it does take time and attention.
The Division of Biological Sciences consists of faculty members who are excellent teachers and acknowledged leaders in research. They have much to offer and share with students inside and outside the classroom. During your stay at UGA, you should utilize the faculty fully. How can you do that? In several ways. Don't be reluctant to talk to your teachers about class-related material; it's not a social stigma to show extra interest in a course! Don't be afraid to ask faculty about the research they do, and if you are interested, pursue the possibility of undergraduate research under their direction (you can also use up to 5 hours of research credit toward the Biology major). There are many ways to learn outside the formal setting of a classroom, including laboratory research and field work. In other words, utilize the resources of the faculty. You will find that they are very receptive to interested students! Getting to know faculty has another practical benefit: it will help when you need an informed recommendation for a job or for admission to graduate or professional school!
Good luck in your studies at UGA, and welcome to Biology! If you have any questions, visit the Biology Office in Room 401 Biological Sciences, or make an appointment with your advisor. We are here to help you get the most you possibly can from our programs!
Dr. Daniel V. DerVartanian, Chairman, Division of Biological Sciences
Dr. William E. Barstow, Associate Chairman and Director, Undergraduate Degree Programs in Biology
Dr. Barry A. Palevitz, Coordinator, Undergraduate Advising for Biology Majors
The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is divided into four divisions, one of which is Biological Sciences. The Division of Biological Sciences consists of the Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Botany, Cellular Biology, Entomology, Genetics, Marine Sciences, Microbiology and the School of Ecology. Each has its own major and degree programs. There is no Department of Biology as such, but because of the integration and relatedness of biological disciplines, the division was set up to conduct a degree program in Biology with the participation of the individual departments and faculty. The Chairman of the Division of Biological Sciences is Professor Daniel V. DeVartanian. The Associate Chairman and Director of Undergraduate Degree Programs is Professor William E. Barstow.
There are a number of courses with the BIO prefix, and the instructors come from appropriate departments within the Division. Some of these courses are required for majors in other degree programs within the division, as well as for the Biology (BIO) major. On the other hand, many courses that can be used for the BIO major carry prefixes of the individual departments (BCH*, BOT, CB, ECL, ENT, GN, MAR, MIB) and not BIO. Other courses are cross-listed by BIO and other departments in the division (e.g. BIO/CB, BIO/BCH, BIO/ECL).
*BCH will be changing to BMB
The Bachelor of Science Degree in BIO is built on a background in allied subjects. Thus, an adequate background in mathematics and chemistry is essential for advanced work in the biological sciences. As you can see from the recommended sample of courses (see page 2), there is a progression in your college work, beginning with mathematics and continuing with two years of chemistry, followed by 40 hours of advanced coursework in BIO. In addition, a minimum of two quarters of Introductory Physics are required for the BIO major.
A B.S. degree with a major in BIO offers an excellent background for a variety of careers and advanced training. Many BIO majors go into medicine, law, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, optometry, and academia. Numerous career opportunities can be found in agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental survey/control and other industries. In addition, opportunities are available in disciplines such as journalism, broadcasting and public policy. A more complete treatment of careers open to those with a BIO degree is provided starting on page 17.
Remember, this schedule is offered for illustrative purposes only. There are a number of ways to construct a satisfactory schedule, and many of the courses can be taken in a different order (e.g language vs. fine arts, philosopy, religion, etc). Your schedule may also change one or more times, depending on availability of courses. Courses are often offered more than once a year, adding additional flexibility. You should work with your BIO advisor to construct a schedule suited to your needs.
| Fall | Winter | Spring | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| ENG 101
| ENG 102
| Literature | MAT 116
| MAT 253
| MAT 254 (or STA) | CHM 121 or CHM 137
| CHM 122 or CHM 136
| POL 101 |
|
|
| BIO 107
| BIO 108
| Literature | CHM 240 or CHM 340
| CHM 241 or CHM 341
| BIO lab (e.g. BIO 311) | History
| History
| BIO 199 | GGY 101, GGY 200, ANT 102 or ANT (ECL) (IDS) 307
|
|
|
| BIO 310
| BIO 320
| Organismal BIO | PCS 127
| PCS 128
| General Elective | Philosophy/Religion
| Fine Arts
| BIO Elective |
|
|
|
| BIO 350
| BIO 330 or BIO 340
| BIO Elective | General Elective
| BIO Elective
| General Elective | Foreign Language
| Foreign Language
| Foreign Language | |
1. There are two kinds of electives required for a B.S. degree in BIO: 15 credit hours are required as general electives by the Franklin College for the B.S. degree, while BIO requires an additional 15 hours of BIO electives as part of the 40 hours of advanced BIO courses required for the BIO major. Because the Franklin College general elective requirement is just 15 credit hours, you should plan your schedule well to make optimal use of those hours. General electives let you take full advantage of a liberal arts setting by allowing you to "branch out" and "spread your wings". However, you may also use the 15 credit hours of general electives to take additional BIO courses to enrich and broaden your training. If you are a pre-med, pre-dent or pre-vet student, the number of available general elective credits will be limited by additional requirements, such as a third quarter of physics (PCS 229) and CHM 123. They may also be limited by a choice of STA over MAT 254 (since two STA course must be taken - see below), and how you satisfy the Environmental Literacy, Multicultural Diversity, Georgia/federal Constitution and Georgia history requirements.
2. If you have had required courses (e.g. ENG 101) exempted or waived but without credit, you must make up those credits as additional general electives.
3. An additional word about other requirements is in order at this point. The general core requirements of the Franklin College provide for flexibility. For example, the Social Science requirement is satisfied by 10 credit hours in any of a number of different courses (see reverse side of Biology Major Checksheet). However, UGA also requires all students to be familiar with the Georgia and federal constitutions. This can best be done by taking POL 101 for half of the Social Science requirement. Likewise, UGA also requires all students to satisfy an Environmental Literacy Requirement, which can be done in several ways (see page 12). For example, you can take ANT 102, ANT (ECL) (IDS) 307, GGY 200 or GGY 101, which also satisfy the other half of the Social Science requirement. ANT 102, ANT 307 and GGY 200 satisfy the Environmental Literacy Requirement by themselves, while GGY 101 should be taken in addition to BIO 350 (which most BIO majors take anyway as part of the 40 credit hours of advanced BIO). Thus, in order to make optimal use of the 182 credit hours required for graduation, and to graduate on time, you should plan wisely and well ahead.
4. Multicultural Diversity. The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences has instituted a new Multicultural Diversity Requirement which applies to all students who marticulate Fall, 1995 or later. The requirement is satisfied by taking a qualifying course from a list available in the Dean's Office and Room 401 Biological Sciences Building. BIO advisors have a copy of the list as well. Students should pay close attention to prerequisites and select a course that also satisfies another requirement, such as the college core Philosophy/Religion or Literature requirements, in order to avoid taking extra courses and delaying graduation. Many students may satisfy the requirements by taking ENG 102M as their second quarter of freshman English.
5. Note that MAT 102 or 116 is required for CHM 121/122, MAT 253 is a corequisite for CHM 137, and MAT 254 is a corequisite for CHM 138.
6. The difference between the CHM 240/241 and 340/341 series is that the latter is for chemistry majors and has a greater emphasis on reaction mechanisms. Thus, CHM 340/341 route may be preferable for anyone with an interest in biochemistry or molecular biology. The laboratory experiences are virtually the same in CHM 240L/241L and CHM 340L/341L. Either CHM 240/241 or 340/341 is acceptable for pre-med and pre-dent students.
7. CHM 123 is valuable for training in bench chemistry. It is a course in qualitative analysis, and can be taken as a general elective. However, it is no longer required for a BIO major. It is still required for all pre-med students, and will probably be required for admission to dental schools other than Medical College of Georgia. CHM 123 will count as a general elective.
8. If you choose a STA option over MAT 254, remember that you must take two courses (STA 221/222, 421/422, or STA 200/CS 201). STA 221 and 222 combine fundamentals of statistics and elements of computer programming. STA 421 and 422 are courses in statistical methods, and special sections are provided for students in the biological sciences. STA 200 and CS 201 are courses at a more elementary level and are probably not as useful for students who intend to pursue more advanced training in science. If you take STA 221/222, 421/422 or STA 200/CS 201, the second course of each series (e.g. STA 222 or 422) will count as five of the 15 credit hours of general electives required for the B.S. degree in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences.
9. Pre-med and pre-vet students are required to take a third quarter of physics (PCS 229). It will count as five credit hours of general electives.
10. Note that the order in which courses can be taken may be critical. CHM 122 or 138 are required for CHM 240 or 340. CHM 240 or 340 is a prerequisite for BIO 310. And, you must take BIO 310, BIO 320 and BIO 330 or BIO 340 in that order.
11. BIO electives and general electives may often be taken in any order during your junior and senior years. However, consult the Undergraduate Bulletin for prerequisites.
12. Pre-meds, pre-dents and others wishing to take anatomy and physiology should take either CB 300 (Comparative Anatomy) or CB 370 (Animal Physiology). The prerequisite for these courses is BIO 108. CB 220 (Human Anatomy) and CB 221 (Human Physiology) are not intended for pre-meds, and credits for these courses will not be counted toward the 40 credit hours of advanced BIO needed for a BIO major.
13. Pre-med students may wish to take BCH 401 and 402 as BIO or general electives, because this usually leads to exemption from freshman biochemistry at the Medical College of Georgia and some other medical schools.
14. BIO 321 may be taken simultaneously with BIO 320.
15. Pre-vet students should consider taking AS 330 (Fundamentals of Animal Nutrition) and AS 331 (Feeds and Feeding) in the Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science. These can be taken as general electives.
16. You can spread your liberal arts core courses (e.g. literature, language, history, etc.) through your four years, so that you do not have to take more than two science courses with laboratories in any one quarter.
17. Note that some courses will satisfy requirements in different categories of the 40 credit hours of advanced courses in BIO required for the BIO major (see Biology Degree Checksheet). For example, MIB 350 can satisfy the requirements for courses in either the organismal, laboratory or BIO elective categories. The same is true for CB 300 and BOT 465. BIO 496 can be taken as an intensive lab or as an elective.
18. BIO 390, Readings in Biology, does not count toward the 40 hr of advanced BIO required for the major, but it can be taken as a general elective.
19. In order to be awarded a baccalaureate degree from UGA, students must earn 60 of the last 90 quarter credit hours in residence.
All baccalaureate degree students are required to have satisfied the Freshman English requirement, earned at least five credit hours in math numbered 102 or higher, earned at least 5 credit hours in a laboratory science course (or the appropriate required core curriculum science course), and earned two credit hours of basic physical education by the time they attain 90 credit hours. Students who have not satisfied these requirements upon completion of 90 hours are required to register at their next enrollment for the necessary courses that will satisfy the requirements. Transfer students who have not fulfilled these requirements must likewise complete the necessary courses prior to finishing 45 credit hours at UGA. Basic physical education courses are designated PEB 100-199. The physical education requirement can no longer be satisfied by proficiency examination. Students who cannot meet the basic physical education requirement for medical reasons should contact Student Health Services. These requirements do not apply to students pursuing a second or subsequent baccalaureate degree.
Prospective BIO majors are encouraged to take BIO 199 for 1 credit hour during their freshman or sophomore year. This course is designed to introduce students to the BIO major, and features weekly presentations by various faculty in the BIO division, its member departments, and representatives from the Health Professions and Career Planning and Placement Offices.
The Biology Degree Checksheet contains item C, Laboratory Requirement. The same item is listed on the Sample Schedule of Classes. There are two alternatives for meeting this requirement. The first is to take one of the intensive lab courses (BIO 311, 321, 331, 351, 371, BCH 403, MIB 414, or BIO 496/496H or BCH 399/496H [Undergraduate Research]). These courses usually consist of three 3 hour laboratories each week and are designed specifically to train students in laboratory techniques.
You may also satisfy the laboratory requirement by another route: you may take two courses at the 300 or 400 level that contain four hours of laboratory each week. These courses are offered by various departments in the division and employ laboratories as part of a comprehensive treatment of a subject. Note that by taking two such laboratory courses you are not required to take an extra five credit hours in the BIO major. That is because one of the courses will also count toward the 15 credit hours of BIO electives required for the major.
Option 1
ELECT ONE COURSE OR SEQUENCE FROM THE FOLLOWING:
ANT 102 Introduction to Anthropology
ECL 100-100L Ecological Basis of Environmental Issues
GGY 200-200L Resources, Society and the Environment
ANT (ECL) (IDS) 307 Environment and Humans
GGY 410 Conservation Ecology and Resource Management
GLY 115-116** Earth Processes and Environments; Earth Through Time
Option 2
ELECT ONE COURSE FROM LIST A (Humanities and Social Sciences) AND ONE COURSE FROM LIST B (Natural and Physical Sciences)
| A | B |
| GGY 101 Introduction to Human Geography | BOT 121-121L Elementary Botany |
| SOC 240 Environmental Sociology | BOT 122-122L Elementary Botany |
| SOC/ANT/POL 440 Socio-Political Ecology | GGY 104 Earth Science Survey |
| PHY/ETH 418 Enviromental Ethics | GLY 115-115L Earth Processes & Resources |
| HIS 483 History of Famine & Food Systems in Africa | BIO 350 Ecology |
| ANT 407 Cultural Ecology | GGY/BOT 413 Plant Ecology & Biogeography |
| ANT 479 Human Adaptation | GGY/ECL 417 Principles of Biogeography: Animals |
| BOT 477-477L Community Ecology |
** Both courses must be taken. The BOT 121, 122 sequence requires an additional course; the GLY 115, 116 sequence satisfies the requirement by itself.
*** CAUTION!! BIO Majors and other B.S. degree students cannot receive credit for this course.
BIO students are encouraged to take ANT 102, GGY 200, ANT (ECL) (IDS) 307 or GGY 101 (the latter in conjunction with BIO 350, which many BIO majors take anyway) to help satisfy both the Environmental Literacy and Social Science Requirements.
For the purpose of academic advisement, the Franklin College distinguishes between Lower Division and Upper Division students. Students are considered to be in the Lower Division during their freshmen and sophomore years, and in the Upper Division for the junior and senior years. Under current practice, all students must receive the approval of an advisor each quarter in order to register for courses.
LOWER DIVISION
All Lower Division students are advised by academic advisors in the Office of Academic Advising, Room 106, New College (542-1412).
UPPER DIVISION
Upon completion of 75 credit hours, with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0, students who declare a BIO major transfer to the Upper Division, where they are advised by BIO faculty. (Note: in other programs, students transfer to Upper Division upon completion of 90 hours).
For BIO advising, go to Room 401 Biological Sciences Building to be assigned an advisor and to make an appointment with an advisor each quarter. Ms. Francine Palevitz is in charge of appointments. Advising appointments are made during a two week period early each quarter; the dates are posted in the lobby of the Biological Sciences Building. Advisors have a limited number of designated hours available for advising. It is your responsibility to make an appointment before phase I registration, and to keep that appointment.
When you make your first appointment with a BIO advisor, you will be given a Biology Degree Checksheet. Together with your advisor, you will plan your course schedule for the remaining quarters of your degree program. Remember, you should take an active role in designing your program of study. All the necessary information is available in printed form in the Undergraduate Bulletin, this Handbook, and the Biology Degree Checksheet. An update on when various relevant courses will be offered the following academic year is assembled by the BIO office each spring to assist you in planning and registration (note, however, that courses are often added or deleted each quarter - check with your advisor and with individual departments for completely up-to-date information before registration). Additional information is often available in the BIO office, so feel free to "check in" occasionally. Your advisor is also ready to assist you with additional information and advice.
You are not "locked in" to the BIO major. You may change to any other major, or to another college, at any time (although the later you wait, the greater the chance you will not be able to graduate on time). See page 16 for more information. It will be necessary to complete the specific requirements of the other department and/or college. Obviously, some, but not necessarily all of the courses you have completed will
count toward the degree program in another department.
We encourage you to get copies of the University of Georgia Undergraduate Bulletin and Student Handbook. The Bulletin (if you don't already have one) may be purchased from UGA Bookstore, while the Student Handbook may be obtained from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs in the Academic Building.
ADVISING FOR PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS
In addition to Upper Division advising for the BIO major, students should consult an appropriate professional who can inform them about specific requirements for advanced training. These include pre-med, pre-dent, pre-podiatry and pre-optometry advising in the Health Professions Office, Room 212 New College (542-1541), and pre-nursing, pre-pharmacy and pre-vet advising in the Office of Academic Advising, Room 106 New College. Additional information for pre-vet students may be obtained from Dr. Dwight Coulter, Associate Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine, 239 Veterinary Medicine (542-5728). BIO majors interested in pharmacy can also contact Ms. Jeanne Prine, 252 Pharmacy, 542-5328. Remember: professional schools often have specific entrance requirements different from those needed for the baccalaureate BIO Degree.
The Division has a number of mechanisms to encourage undergraduate research. You can take up to 5 credit hours of BIO 496/496H or BCH 399/496H toward the 40 hours of advanced credit required for the BIO major. These courses will satisfy laboratory and/or elective requirements of the BIO degree. You can even receive a stipend to do research. Many professors hire undergraduates off of their research grants. The Hughes Office offers programs to foster undergraduate research, including special summer stipends. The National Science Foundation provides funds to pay stipends for summer undergraduate research projects to all faculty holding regular research grants through this agency. If you are considering a summer research project, ask your professor about this program. Some departments or cross-disciplinary groups have special training grants that will also pay undergraduates to do research. Recent grants have covered Evolutionary Biology and Microbial Physiology. Since such programs come and go, you should check with various departments or professors regularly.
While many programs fund summer research experiences, we urge you to consider a longer-term commitment. Research is an ongoing pursuit that is usually most fruitful when conducted over an extended period. Many professors will require an extended commitment before taking you on. Therefore, it is best to seek a research project as early in your stay at UGA as possible. While research credit toward the BIO major as BIO 496/496H (or its equivalent) is limited to 5 hours (in order to foster diversity of experience), we nevertheless encourage you to continue research beyond those 5 credit hours. Additional credit hours for research may be done as general electives.
UGA also has a cross-disciplinary program that offers a Certificate in Environmental Ethics to undergraduates who earn at least 28 credit hours in appropriate courses. More information can be obtained from Dr. Peter Hartel, Undergraduate Coordinator, Environmental Ethics Certificate Program, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, 3111 Plant Sciences Building, 542-0898.
Courses related to biology are also offered through the Anthropology and Psychology departments in the College of Arts and Sciences, and in various departments in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and the School of Forest Resources.
If you wish to take one or two courses at another school, you should seek the advice of your advisor beforehand. Information about transient status can be obtained from the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Office, or your advisor. You should obtain a "Student Request For Transient Status" form from your advisor, the Dean's Office, the Admissions Office (Terrell Hall), or the Registrar's Office (Academic Building). Fill out the form and bring or send it to the Registrar's Office. Also, initiate application to the school you wish to attend. Near the end of the term at the other school, request that a transcript of your completed course work be sent to UGA Undergraduate Admissions Office so that the courses may be evaluated and posted to your UGA record. If you wish to take a core course (English, Math, History, etc.) at an institution in Georgia, the Admissions Office has prepared a list of equivalent courses which will freely transfer to UGA. This list is also available in the Dean's office and from your advisor.
If you wish to take courses outside of Georgia, or advanced courses to count towards your major, remember that the Admissions Office decides after the fact whether courses qualify for UGA credit. Therefore, you must be certain that the course you wish to take will be accepted and that it is suitable for the BIO major. In other words, this is a risky procedure! Be careful! Talk to your advisor beforehand, and seek the advice of the appropriate department in BIO. However, there is no guarantee in advance that such courses will transfer to UGA!
Graduating seniors who wish to finish their degree with one or two courses at another school should also seek the advice of their advisor. In such cases, courses may be pre-approved by Admissions. For more information, contact Ms. Eileen Canty, Undergraduate Admissions, 542-8776.
Do not feel that you are "locked in" to the major you chose when you first came to UGA, your first declared major. Our goal is to help prepare you for whatever lies ahead in life, not to confine or restrict you. You still have many options open to you; don't be afraid to exercise them!However, you should carefully weigh any decision to change major or college.
If you wish to transfer from one college or school to another within UGA, or to change majors within the college, you should secure from the Dean's Office of the college in which you are currently enrolled a change of school or major form. The Dean's office will then complete the necessary procedures for the transfer of your files. You may also obtain the form in the BIO office, room 401 Biological Sciences.
A student on probation or dismissal in one college or school may not transfer to another college or school within the university without the consent of the Dean of the College to which admission is sought.
A bulletin board near the Coke machines on the 4th floor of the Biological Sciences Building is used to announce club functions and meetings. As a biology major, you are cordially invited to attend. This is another excellent way to obtain information about biology, careers in this field, and additional information about the biology program at this University. Further information and application forms for Beta Beta Beta are available in Room 209, Biological Sciences Building. Initiations are held Fall and Spring Quarters each year.
Life scientists work at many interesting occupations, most of which are related to biology, agriculture, health, or the environment.
Biological scientists may study all organisms and their life functions, but more likely they specialize in one of the disciplines that have developed within the science of biology. Traditionally, botanists study plants, microbiologists study microscopic organisms such as bacteria, and zoologists study animals. Thus, biologists often describe themselves by the groups of organisms they study. The names of some specialists are easy to figure out: wildlife biologist, tropical biologist, parasitologist, marine biologist. Others are based on scientific root words: mammologist (mammals), ornithologist (birds), herpetologist (amphibians and reptiles), ichthyologist (fish), phycologist (algae), mycologist (fungi) and virologist (viruses).
There has been a remarkable realignment of disciplines over the past few decades, such that new labels and descriptions have come into use. For example, ecologists study the relationships of organisms to the environment and how these relationships are altered by human activities. Geneticists and molecular biologists examine how genes are inherited and expressed, and what happens when they are changed or rearranged by nature (as with certain birth defects) or by direct manipulation of the DNA within living cells. Pathologists study plant and animal diseases. Systematists and taxonomists name, classify and explore the evolutionary relationships between organisms. Cell biologists study the structure, behavior and function of cells and their components, while physiologists study the functions and vital processes of organisms. Paleobotanists and paleozoologists study extinct plants, animals and even microorganisms. Photobiologists study the effects of light on cells and organisms. Structural biologists study the three dimensional architecture of macromolecules such as proteins. Scientists working in these disciplines often utilize a variety of materials, thus defying the more traditional lines and designations that were more organismally based.
Some biologists are pharmacologists or toxicologists, or more recently, environmental health specialists, testing the effects of substances such as toxins, drugs, medicines, food additives, pesticides and other environmental factors on organisms, including humans. Recombinant DNA research, which involves the alteration of natural genetic information, has opened exciting new areas for cytogeneticists (cellular genetics specialists) and biotechnologists.
Many biologists are teachers at the secondary and college level. Biologists are also employed as naturalists, museum specialists and forensic scientists. There is an increasing need to inform the general public about advances and current issues in the biological sciences. A B.S. degree can help prepare you for a career in science writing, journalism, editing, illustratration and photography. Science policy, biological/medical ethics and science-related law (e.g. patent and environmental law) are other emerging careers in which a BIO major is of value.
Medical scientists and health care professionals represent an important segment of life sciences careers. Training in biology is essential for physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, veterinarians, podiatrists, chiropractors, optometrists, nutritionists, audiologists, public and environmental health specialists, sanitarians, coroners, medical technologists and technicians, health care administrators, medical librarians, exercise physiologists, physician assistants, sports medicine specialists, and physical, occupational, speech, music, recreational and manual arts therapists.
Several colleges in Georgia including Brunswick College, Columbus College, Armstrong State, Dalton College, Georgia State University, Agnes Scott College, North Georgia College, Mercer University and various other technical schools and institutes offer degrees or certificates in medical technology, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, dental hygiene and other allied health careers. A student with a B.S. in BIO may complete advanced training in several additional quarters, depending on the program. Students are encouraged to contact these schools directly for more information.
The Medical College of Georgia has programs in Nursing, Physician Assistant, Medical Illustration, Occupational Therapy, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy and other health careers. For more details, contact:
Office of Undergraduate Admissions Medical College of Georgia 170 Administration Building Augusta, Georgia 30912-0900 (706-721-2725)Emory University Medical School in Atlanta also has Physicians Assistant, Occupational Therapy and Nursing Programs, as do other medical schools across the region and country.
Information about allied health careers can also be obtained from the Office of Academic Advising, 106 New College (542-1412).
Note: Students interested in Pre-Physical Therapy, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics and Exercise/Sport Psychology programs can also major in Exercise and Sport Science in the Department of Exercise Science, College of Education. Additional information may be obtained from the Undergraduate Academic Advisor in the Department of Exercise Science, 101F SPACENTER, 542-4437.
Students who are working toward a B.S. degree with a major in BIO may pursue a career in primary and secondary school science education. There is a dramatic need for teachers with modern expertise in science as well as education, to prepare young people for college and to increase general science literacy in this country. Such a career choice requires state certification, which involves additional courses in Education. Information about state certification requirements, as well as advanced degree programs in Science Education (e.g. at the Masters level), can be obtained from the Department of Science Education, College of Education, Room 212 Aderhold Hall (542-1763).
Many life sciences professionals are classified as agricultural scientists, including agronomists, field crop managers, soil scientists and conservationists, plant and animal physiologists, greenhouse managers, and plant and animal breeders. Agricultural professionals also include range scientists, fish and game managers, food technologists, horticulturalists, forest rangers and other specialists. Information on careers in agriculture may be obtained from advisors in individual departments in the UGA College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (e.g. Animal Science, Food Science and Technology, Horticulture, Crop and Soil Sciences, Plant Pathology).
We encourage you to contact the Office of Career Planning and Placement in Clark Howell Hall (542-3375). This office assembles information on career opportunities for graduates with science degrees, including those in BIO. They also have information on Cooperative Education and Intern programs that may be of value to you in obtaining future employment. See page 22 for more information.
In biology as well as in other fields, better jobs and higher salaries are available to college graduates. Furthermore, college graduates are significantly less likely to be unemployed than persons who do not finish college, let alone high school (Occupational Outlook Quarterly, Fall 1987). Over their lifetimes, people with a minimum of a bachelor's degree can expect to earn more and eventually attain a higher salary than people who do not graduate from college. Similarly, salary and position are higher for individuals with advanced degrees, such as an M.S. or Ph.D. degree. In general, four or five years of college study are required to obtain a bachelor's degree. A master's degree takes an additional one to three years, while a Ph.D. may take four to six years beyond the bachelor's degree.
Your training as a BIO major gives you the background to undertake graduate work in most fields. If you are interested in pursuing a higher degree, you should discuss this with your BIO advisor. He/she can give you valuable information on degree programs and faculty at various institutions, or refer you to UGA faculty who are experts in the fields in which you are interested. We also recommend that you get to know UGA faculty members as early in your stay here as possible, and on your own initiative, in order to utilize their advice about graduate training. You may also call the various departments in the Division of Biological Sciences (telephone numbers below) for help in obtaining additional information. Each department has a Graduate Coordinator who can be of assistance. Keep in mind that the UGA has a wide range of M.S. and Ph.D. programs in various biological disciplines. The Graduate Coordinators can help with information about these programs. Additional information about graduate school in general, and UGA's graduate programs in particular, may be obtained at the UGA Graduate School Office, 534 Boyd Graduate Studies Building (542-1739).
Note: the UGA offers a combined Bachelor's/Master's Degree program to exceptional students with superior academic backgrounds. The program leads to a Master's Degree during the four-year period normally used to complete the baccalaureate degree. This combined Bachelor/Master Degree is perhaps the greatest challenge offered by the UGA. The program is sponsored through the Honors Program. For more information, contact the Honors Program, 307 Academic Building (542-3240).
Some graduate programs require the Master's Degree before a student begins work on a Ph.D. In many cases, however, the Master's Degree can be bypassed.
Applications for graduate school should be obtained from each institution in which you are interested. Contact the individual departments at those institutions for information and guidance. You should write to them well ahead of application deadlines. Graduate programs require that you take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The Division Office in Room 401 Biological Sciences has a handout with more information about graduate school. Feel free to drop by and pick one up.
Most graduate students are supported by some form of part-time assistantship. Assistantships carry with them various duties, most commonly teaching or research. The annual stipend for an assistantship varies between institutions. It may also vary depending on the nature of the assistantship (e.g. research vs. teaching), the percentage of your time devoted to assistantship duties, and your progress in graduate school. Stipends may amount to $11,000 to $15,000 on an annualized basis. However, assistantships are often awarded for the academic year, with additional amounts typically available for summer support. Assistantships may also be accompanied by full or partial waivers of tuition, depending on the policy of the university. This should be taken into account when assessing the relative value of various assistantship offers. Assistantship decisions are made in February and March for the following academic year, so it is important to make application in late fall and have your GRE scores sent to the universities to which you apply. Therefore, you should take the GRE not later than fall quarter of your senior year, in order to receive full consideration for the limited number of assistantships available.
Both the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees are research degrees requiring a thesis and dissertation describing independent research that you have carried out. Experience with research as an undergraduate at UGA should give you an advantage in graduate school, and would probably help in securing admission and an assistantship.
With respect to future employment, a Master's Degree may give you preference in hiring and securing a somewhat higher salary. A Ph.D. degree offers additional opportunities, usually at a still higher level and salary. However, the monetary rewards for advanced degrees vary, depending on the employer and field of specialization.
Most independent research in the biological sciences, whether it is done in government laboratories, industry or universities, is directed by individuals with a Ph.D. degree. The Ph.D. degree is the highest earned degree awarded in this country. However, it is common practice for people who have just earned a Ph.D. to do additional, postdoctoral training for one or more years, before starting regular employment.
Students should be aware of ongoing changes in the medical and basic biological sciences. Fundamental shifts in the manner in which health care is provided are causing major changes in the utilization of physicians, nurses and other health professionals. Decline in support for basic research at the federal level, and increased competition for grant funds, will have profound impact on academic scientists in the biological disciplines. On the other hand, career opportunities in industry and other sectors may seem more attractive. Students should give thoughtful consideration to these factors and seek the advice of BIO faculty in making decisions about career goals.
For information about careers in the various disciplines of biology at UGA, contact an undergraduate or graduate advisor in the appropriate department:
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 542-1334
Botany 542-3732
Cellular Biology 542-3310
Ecology 542-2968
Entomology (until Fall, 1996) 542-2816
Genetics 542-8000
Marine Sciences 542-7671
Microbiology 542-1434
If you have a physical or learning disability, please take advantage of the services offered to you by the staff of the appropriate offices.
ACADEMIC ADVISING Franklin College of Arts and Sciences 106 New College 542-1412 ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE Tutorial Services, including basic science courses. 1242 S. Lumpkin 542-7575 ADMISSIONS OFFICE 114 Academic Building 542-2112 ADVANCED PLACEMENT Programs for Superior Students 307 Academic Building 542-3240 BIOLOGY DEGREE PROGRAM Dr. William E. Barstow, Director 403 Biological Sciences Building 542-1688 Dr. Barry A. Palevitz, Coordinator Biology Advisors 1603 or 1606 Plant Sciences Building 542-1691 CAREER PLANNING AND PLACEMENT Clark Howell Hall, Second Floor 542-3375
COUNSELING AND TESTING CENTER Clark Howell Hall First Floor, South Wing 542-3183 Comprehensive career exploration services including career exploration groups, comprehensive career library; tapes on UGA majors; computerized career information system (SIGI); and interest and personality testing. Administers all University-wide and numerous national testing programs.DISABILITY SERVICES Office of Disability Services 345 Tate Student Center 542-8719 EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION Career Planning and Placement Office of Student Employment 2nd Floor, Clark Howell Hall 542-5257 EVENING CLASSES University Credit Programs 192 Georgia Center 542-6400 EXAMINATIONS (University Required + Advanced Placement) Counseling and Testing Center 1st Floor, Clark Howell Hall 542-3183
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Student Financial Aid 220 Academic Building 542-6147 FOREIGN STUDENT NEEDS International Services and Programs 210V Memorial Hall 542-1557 GRADUATE SCHOOL, UGA 534 Boyd Graduate Studies Building 542-1739 GRADUATION CHECK AND CERTIFICATION Office of Academic Advising 212A New College 542-1563 HEALTH PROFESSIONS OFFICE Pre-med, pre-dent, pre-optometry, pre-podiatry 212A New College 542-1541 HEALTH SERVICES Gilbert Health Center See UGA Telephone Directory for services and telephone numbers HONESTY INFRACTIONS AND INFORMATION Office of Vice President for Academic Affairs Old College 542-8736 HONOR AND OTHER SOCIETIES Student Activities Office Tate Student Center 542-7774 HONORS PROGRAM Programs for Superior Students 307 Academic Building 542-3240 INDEPENDENT STUDY University Credit Programs 1030 Chicopee Building 542-3243 LEARNING DISABILITIES Learning Disabilities Adult Clinic 536 Aderhold 542-4589 This facility is an assessment and treatment clinic which provides comprehensive, specialized services to the learning disabled on campus. The clinic provides an intensive two-day assessment to determine a student's relative strengths and weaknesses, and makes recommendations for special assistance. The clinic also provides skills training and counseling, and an alternate environment for taking exams. PHARMACY Pre-pharmacy Advising 252 Pharmacy Bldg. 542-5328 REGISTRATION/OASIS HELP DESK Registration/Scheduling Registrar's Office Memorial Hall 542-6911
SCIENCE EDUCATION 212 Aderhold Hall 542-1763 SCHOLARSHIPS Office of Financial Aid 220 Academic Building 542-6147 Need based and general scholarships, Workstudy, Hope Scholarships Office of Admissions 114 Academic Building 542-2112 Scholarships for incoming freshmen only Honors Program 310 Academic Building 542-1651, 542-3240 National and International Rising Junior and Seniors SPEECH AND HEARING CLINIC 593 Aderhold Hall 542-4598 1. Hearing tests administered. 2. Therapy provided for students with hearing deficiencies and speech impediments. TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION Admissions Office 114 Academic Building 542-2112 TUTORING Tutorial Services 1242 S. Lumpkin St. 542-7575 The Tutorial Services program is designed to give academic assistance to students having problems in a specific course. Using a peer tutor concept, students receive individual or small group help in understanding course material. Assistance is offered in a wide variety of courses, and the service is free of charge. Students must take appointments, however. 1. Tutoring in introductory math, science and languages. 2. Help in developing good general study skills. VETERANS AFFAIRS AND BENEFITS 106 Academic Building 542-8772 VETERINARY MEDICINE Pre-vet advising 106 New College 542-1412 Also see Dr. Dwight Coulter 239 Veterinary Medicine 542-5728 WITHDRAWALS (from University and from courses after regular withdrawal period) Student Affairs 201 Academic Building 542-3564 WRITING CENTER English Department 72 Park Hall 542-2119, Ext. 201
Writing help sessions are open to any registered student who has completed the freshman English requirement.
who is just starting a curriculum in biology, or even more generally, in science?
If you find an aspect of science that interests you particularly, identify the faculty members at your university who are working in this area. Go to see them, visit their laboratories, express your interest, and ask if you can do any work in the laboratory, even if it just involves washing glassware. While there, you will come into contact with people working in the lab and will have the opportunity to talk with them about their work. Express an interest and an enthusiasm. I think that relatively few faculty members will turn down an enthusiastic student. In fact, they will encourage you to become more involved.
Ruth Satter
Last modified 6/3/96.
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