Degrees and Programs
The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology
The B.A. program allows students sufficient flexibility to explore their breadth of interests and still acquire an in-depth of knowledge of the sciences. Read degree requirements in the course catalog.
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology
The B.S. program is designed to meet the needs of students primarily interested in science and who intend to pursue graduate study and research in the biological sciences or careers in the health professions or other science related fields. Read degree requirements in the course catalog.
Pre-graduate Preparation in Biology
Both the B.A. and B.S. degree programs are acceptable for admission to graduate schools specializing in the biological sciences. Most graduate programs look more favorably on students who have a B.S. due to the more rigorous requirements of the degree. Students who are planning to pursue post-graduate education should consult with the pre-graduate school advisor as early as possible in their second year . For more information contact Dr. Charles R. Toth, pre-graduate school advisor, (401) 865-2015, ctoth@providence.edu.
Premed Preparation in Biology
Both the B.A. and B.S. degree programs meet the science requirements demanded for admission to professional schools specializing in the health sciences such as medicine, dentistry, optometry, and veterinary medicine. Most students interested in the health professions major in biology. However, some students whose interests lie in other areas may elect to major in non-science department while still successfully completing the prerequisites for medical, dental, veterinary or optometry school admission. Students who are planning for a career in the medical sciences should consult with the Advisor for Health Professions early in their freshman year. Read the requirements in the course catalog. Learn more about the Premed program here.
The Double Major or Creating an Individualized Major
Students at Providence College are offered the opportunity to initiate and develop combined curricular programs which they feel may better meet their needs than a single concentration. The double major requires that the student complete all degree requirements in the two departments elected. Several biology students each year elect a double major, most often in biology/chemistry. The individualized program is designed for students whose needs transcend specific disciplines and which require a special curricular format. For example, a student with an interest in medical illustration may design a program incorporating courses in both biology and art but need not necessarily complete a major in both.
The Double Major or Creating an Individualized Major
Students at Providence College are offered the opportunity to initiate and develop combined curricular programs which they feel may better meet their needs than a single concentration. The double major requires that the student complete all degree requirements in the two departments elected. Several biology students each year elect a double major, most often in biology/chemistry. The individualized program is designed for students whose needs transcend specific disciplines and which require a special curricular format. For example, a student with an interest in medical illustration may design a program incorporating courses in both biology and art but need not necessarily complete a major in both.