The Bachelor of Science in Biology provides a sound liberal arts education with substantial experience in quantitative and analytical thought, along with preparation for related professions. The program provides the strong background necessary for not only graduate study in the life sciences, but also enables students to develop careers in a wide variety of disciplines, including teaching, environmental management, microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, wildlife management, fisheries biology, and marine science. Furthermore, our curriculum prepares students for careers in the health sciences including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, and related allied health disciplines.
Admissions
University-wide admissions policies can be found in Undergraduate Admissions Policies.
To apply for this program, please complete the George Mason University Admissions Application.
Policies
Students must fulfill all Requirements for Bachelor's Degrees, including the Mason Core.
Important information and departmental policies are listed in the Department of Biology.
BIOL 400 News Views: Selected Topics (Mason Core) or MLAB 300 Science Writing (Mason Core) meet the writing intensive requirement for this major.
For policies governing all undergraduate degrees, see AP.5 Undergraduate Policies.
Important Program Requirements
- Students may not apply more than 4 credits of lower-level BIOL prefixed courses (or equivalent transfer credit at the 100 to 200-level) toward the BS without Concentration electives if taken before the successful completion of BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory.
- Biology majors must earn a minimum grade of 'C' in all Core Courses under the "Biology Core Courses" header. A grade of 'C' or better must be earned in BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory in order to advance to other core requirements.
- Students may not count BIOL 124 Human Anatomy and Physiology I and/or BIOL 125 Human Anatomy and Physiology II toward any Biology, BS requirement.
- Students may count BIOL 303 Animal Biology and/or BIOL 304 Plant Biology as biology electives.
- At least 44 credits must be taken from the "Biology Core Courses" header and all listed "Biology Elective" coursework (with or without a concentration).
- BIOL 493 Honors Research in Biology, BIOL 495 Directed Studies in Biology, and BIOL 497 Special Problems in Biology do not satisfy the requirements of the BS degree which state that students must complete at least two upper division courses that include a laboratory. The courses do, however, count as non-laboratory electives.
Several optional concentrations are available; details on each can be found in the Requirements tab.
Teacher Licensure
Students who wish to become teachers can pursue either the Biology, BA or the Biology, BS in addition to obtaining teaching credentials. For more information, visit the Secondary Education program's webpage.
Degree Requirements
Total credits: minimum 120
Students should refer to the Admissions & Policies tab for specific policies related to this program.
Students must complete the program with a minimum GPA of 2.00.
All students must complete the Biology Core Courses and the Supporting Core Courses listed below. While a concentration is not required (see the BS without Concentration), students may elect to declare a concentration (requirements listed below).
Biology Core Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 102 | Introductory Biology I-Survey of Biodiversity and Ecology (Mason Core) | 4 |
| BIOL 103 & BIOL 105 | Introductory Biology II-Survey of Cell and Molecular Biology (Mason Core) and Introductory Biology II Laboratory (Mason Core) | 4 |
| BIOL 213 & BIOL 215 | Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 214 | Biostatistics for Biology Majors | 4 |
| BIOL 308 & BIOL 338 | Foundations of Ecology and Evolution and Foundations of Ecology and Evolution Laboratory (Mason Core) | 4 |
| or BIOL 300 | BioDiversity | |
| BIOL 311 & BIOL 313 | General Genetics and General Genetics Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 400 | News Views: Selected Topics (Mason Core) 1 | 3 |
| Total Credits | 27 | |
- 1
Fulfills writing intensive requirement.
Supporting Core Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry | ||
| CHEM 211 & CHEM 213 | General Chemistry I (Mason Core) and General Chemistry Laboratory I (Mason Core) | 4 |
| CHEM 212 & CHEM 214 | General Chemistry II (Mason Core) and General Chemistry Laboratory II (Mason Core) | 4 |
| CHEM 313 & CHEM 315 | Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry Lab I | 5 |
| Physics | ||
| Select one sequence from the following: | 8 | |
| University Physics I (Mason Core) and University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core) and University Physics II (Mason Core) and University Physics II Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| College Physics I (Mason Core) and College Physics I Lab (Mason Core) and College Physics II (Mason Core) and College Physics II Lab (Mason Core) | ||
| Mathematics | ||
| Select one from the following: 1 | 4-6 | |
| Linear Mathematical Modeling (Mason Core) | ||
| Analytic Geometry and Calculus I (Mason Core) | ||
| Calculus with Algebra/Trigonometry, Part A and Calculus with Algebra/Trigonometry, Part B (Mason Core) | ||
| Computer Science | 3 | |
| Computing for Scientists (Mason Core) 2 | ||
| Total Credits | 28-30 | |
- 1
Students expecting to enter a health professions school or a graduate program are strongly encouraged to complete MATH 113 Analytic Geometry and Calculus I (Mason Core).
- 2
Recommended by the Department of Biology.
BS without Concentration
This program provides a sound liberal arts education with substantial experience in quantitative and analytical thought. The BS without Concentration option provides students with the flexibility to explore and prepare for a career in a wide variety of disciplines, including: teaching, health sciences, environmental management, microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, wildlife management, fisheries biology, and marine science.
Students pursuing the BS without Concentration option must complete the curriculum requirements listed below:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Biology Electives | ||
| Select 17 credits from the following: 1 | 17 | |
Non-laboratory Courses | ||
| Biology Freshman Seminar | ||
| Introductory Ecology for Environmental Engineers | ||
| Alternative Careers in Biology | ||
| Biology of Microorganisms | ||
| Oceanography | ||
or EVPP 309 | Oceanography | |
or GEOL 309 | Oceanography | |
| Biostatistics for Bioinformatics | ||
| Conservation Biology | ||
| Developmental Biology | ||
| Animal Physiology | ||
| Invertebrate Zoology | ||
| Vertebrate Paleontology | ||
or GEOL 334 | Vertebrate Paleontology (Mason Core) | |
| Invertebrate Paleontology | ||
or GEOL 312 | Invertebrate Paleontology | |
| Plant Diversity and Evolution | ||
| Plant Ecology | ||
| Freshwater Ecosystems | ||
or EVPP 350 | Freshwater Ecosystems | |
| Applied Ecology | ||
or EVPP 377 | Applied Ecology | |
| Introduction to Virology | ||
| Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering | ||
| Medical Microbiology | ||
| Mushrooms, Molds and Society | ||
or EVPP 408 | Mushrooms, Molds and Society | |
| Phage Genomics | ||
| Histotechniques | ||
| Selected Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology | ||
| Vaccines | ||
| Genetics of Human Diseases | ||
| Biology of Obesity and Weight Loss | ||
| Human Physiology | ||
| Mechanisms of Aging | ||
| Disease Ecology and Conservation | ||
or EVPP 427 | Conservation Medicine | |
| Biological Foundations of Pharmacology | ||
| Clinical Applications in Human Physiology | ||
| Selected Topics in Biology | ||
| Tropical Ecology | ||
| Marine Ecology | ||
| Marine Conservation | ||
| Immunology | ||
| Marine Mammal Biology and Conservation | ||
| Reproductive Strategies | ||
| Infectious Diseases Wildlife | ||
or EVPP 460 | Infectious Diseases of Wildlife | |
| Introductory Animal Behavior | ||
| Introduction to Molecular Genetics | ||
| General Biochemistry | ||
| Marine Mammal Biology and Conservation | ||
| Marine Conservation | ||
| Marine Ecology | ||
| Fungi and Ecosystems | ||
| Introduction to Animal Behavior | ||
| Primate Behavior, Ecology and Conservation | ||
Upper-level Laboratory Courses | ||
| Animal Biology | ||
| Plant Biology | ||
| Biology of Microorganisms and Biology of Microorganisms Laboratory 2 | ||
| Developmental Biology and Environmental Effects on Embryonic Development | ||
| Applied Ecology and Applied Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory | ||
| Phage Discovery | ||
| Microbial Genetics | ||
| Microbial Diversity | ||
| Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology I | ||
| Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology II | ||
| Ornithology | ||
or EVPP 437 | Ornithology | |
| Mammalogy | ||
or EVPP 438 | Mammalogy | |
| Herpetology | ||
or EVPP 439 | Herpetology | |
| Field Biology | ||
or CONS 440 | Ecology Field Skills | |
| Tropical Ecology and Tropical Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Immunology and Immunology Laboratory | ||
| Histology | ||
| Introductory Animal Behavior and Introductory Laboratory in Animal Behavior | ||
| Cell Signaling Laboratory | ||
| Protist Diversity and Ecology | ||
| Insect Biology | ||
| Applied Conservation | ||
| Biodiversity Monitoring | ||
| Landscape and Macrosystems Ecology | ||
| Small Population Management | ||
| Additional Science Courses | ||
| Students are encouraged to consult with a biology faculty advisor to determine which option (A, B, or C) best meets their career goals. Select one from the following options | 3-8 | |
Option A: | ||
| Organic Chemistry II and Organic Chemistry Lab II | ||
Option B: | ||
Option C: | ||
| Physical Geology (Mason Core) and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core) (Natural Science courses) | ||
| Historical Geology (Mason Core) and Historical Geology Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| Total Credits | 20-25 | |
- 1
Of which, at least 13 credits must be upper division, and at least two of the upper division courses must include a laboratory.
- 2
This lecture and lab combination can be taken together or separately.
Concentration in Bioinformatics (BNF)
The highly interdisciplinary field of bioinformatics has emerged as a powerful modern science. There is a great demand for undergraduate and graduate-level trained individuals with a background in bioinformatics in industry as well as in academia.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Biology Electives for the Bioinformatics Concentration | ||
Required Computer Science | ||
| CDS 230 | Modeling and Simulation I | 3 |
Required Bioinformatics | ||
| BINF 401 | Bioinformatics and Computational Biology I | 3 |
| BINF 402 | Bioinformatics and Computational Biology II | 3 |
Required Biology | ||
| BIOL 305 & BIOL 306 | Biology of Microorganisms and Biology of Microorganisms Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 312 | Biostatistics for Bioinformatics | 3-4 |
| or PSYC 300 | Statistics in Psychology | |
| or STAT 354 | Probability and Statistics for Engineers and Scientists II | |
| BIOL 401 | Phage Discovery | 3 |
| BIOL 412 | Phage Genomics | 3 |
| Additional Science Courses | ||
| Select one from the following options: 1 | 3-8 | |
Option A: | ||
| Organic Chemistry II and Organic Chemistry Lab II | ||
Option B: | ||
Option C: | ||
| Physical Geology (Mason Core) and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core) | ||
| Historical Geology (Mason Core) and Historical Geology Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| Total Credits | 25-31 | |
- 1
Students are encouraged to consult with a biology advisor to determine which option (A, B, or C) best meets their career goals.
Concentration in Biopsychology (BP)
The biopsychology concentration consists of a selection of courses designed to address the needs and interest of students who wish to study biology in more depth while simultaneously exploring psychology and neurobiology. This concentration will help prepare students for the MCAT section related to psychology and provide veterinary students with a background in animal learning/behavior.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Biology Electives for the Biopsychology Concentration | ||
Biopsychology Required Courses | ||
| BIOL 430 | Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 4 |
| BIOL 431 | Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 4 |
| PSYC 372 | Biopsychology | 3 |
| PSYC 373 | Biopsychology Laboratory | 2 |
Additional Psychology/Neuroscience Course | ||
| Select 3-4 credits from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Principles of Learning (Mason Core) | ||
| Brain and Behavior | ||
| Psychology of Communication (Mason Core) | ||
| Cellular Neuroscience | ||
| Developmental and Systems Neuroscience | ||
Additional Biology Courses | ||
| Select 3-4 credits, not previously taken, from the Biology Electives listed under the BS without Concentration option (above). | 3-4 | |
| Additional Chemistry Courses | ||
| Select one from the following options: 1 | 3-5 | |
Option A: | ||
| Organic Chemistry II and Organic Chemistry Lab II | ||
Option B: | ||
| Total Credits | 22-26 | |
- 1
Students are encouraged to consult with a biology faculty advisor to determine which option best meets their career goals.
- 2
CHEM 314 Organic Chemistry II alone does not fulfill this requirement.
Concentration in Biotechnology and Molecular Biology (BTMB)
The biotechnology and molecular biology concentration consists of a selection of courses that provide essential skills to students who seek employment in the field or wish to include an applied component in their undergraduate training in biology.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Biology Electives for the Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Concentration | ||
Biotechnology Required Courses | ||
| BIOL 305 & BIOL 306 | Biology of Microorganisms and Biology of Microorganisms Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 385 | Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering | 3 |
| BIOL 483 | General Biochemistry | 4 |
Additional Biology Courses | ||
| Select 5-8 credits from the following, at least one of the selections must be chosen from the Laboratory Courses section: | 6-8 | |
Laboratory Courses: | ||
| Microbial Genetics | ||
| Immunology and Immunology Laboratory | ||
| Histology | ||
| Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory | ||
Non-laboratory Courses: | ||
| Introduction to Virology | ||
| Phage Discovery | ||
| Advanced General Genetics | ||
| Phage Genomics | ||
| Current Topics in Microbiology 1 | ||
| Vaccines | ||
| Genetics of Human Diseases | ||
| Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine | ||
| Introduction to Molecular Genetics | ||
| Cell Signaling and Disease | ||
| Special Problems in Biology 1 | ||
| Additional Chemistry Courses | ||
| CHEM 314 & CHEM 318 | Organic Chemistry II and Organic Chemistry Lab II | 5 |
| Total Credits | 22-24 | |
- 1
Registration for BIOL 417 Selected Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology, BIOL 418 Current Topics in Microbiology, or BIOL 497 Special Problems in Biology is subject to approval by the Director of Undergraduate Studies and the Chair of the Department of Biology.
Concentration in Environmental and Conservation Biology (ESCB)
This concentration is offered to students seeking a biology degree that focuses on ecology and organismal biology and prepares them for graduate work or employment in environmental and conservation fields, such as natural resources management, fisheries, forestry, water quality management, aquatic and wetland ecology, and conservation biology. The concentration is staffed and supported by the Department of Environmental Science and Policy.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Biology Electives for the Environmental and Conservation Biology Concentration | ||
Required Environmental and Conservation Biology | ||
| BIOL 318 | Conservation Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 377 | Applied Ecology | 3 |
Additional Biology 1 | ||
Non-laboratory Courses: | ||
| Select 3-4 credits from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Oceanography | ||
or EVPP 309 | Oceanography | |
or GEOL 309 | Oceanography | |
| Introduction to Research Design and Analysis | ||
| Animal Physiology | ||
| Conservation Seminar | ||
| Monitoring and Assessment of Biodiversity | ||
| Ecological Engineering and Ecosystem Restoration | ||
| RS: Ecological Sustainability (Mason Core) | ||
| Tropical Ecology | ||
| Ecological and Evolutionary Physiology | ||
| Marine Ecology | ||
| Marine Conservation | ||
| Marine Mammal Biology and Conservation | ||
| Reproductive Strategies | ||
| Fungi and Ecosystems | ||
| Vertebrate Natural History | ||
| The Diversity of Fishes | ||
| Special Problems in Biology 3 | ||
Laboratory Courses: | ||
| Select 8 credits from the following: | 8 | |
| Invertebrate Zoology | ||
| Insect Biology | ||
| Plant Diversity and Evolution | ||
| Plant Ecology | ||
| Freshwater Ecosystems | ||
| Ecology Field Skills | ||
| Applied Ecology Laboratory | ||
| Ornithology | ||
| Mammalogy | ||
| Herpetology | ||
| Field Biology | ||
| Invertebrate Zoology | ||
| Introductory Animal Behavior | ||
| Additional Science Courses | ||
| Select one from the following options: 1 | 3-8 | |
Option A: 2 | ||
| Organic Chemistry II and Organic Chemistry Lab II | ||
Option B: | ||
Option C: | ||
| Physical Geology (Mason Core) and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core) | ||
| Historical Geology (Mason Core) and Historical Geology Laboratory (Mason Core) | ||
| Total Credits | 20-26 | |
- 1
Students are encouraged to consult with a biology faculty advisor to determine which option best meets their career goals.
- 2
CHEM 314 Organic Chemistry II alone does not fulfill this requirement.
- 3
Registration in BIOL 497 Special Problems in Biology is subject to approval by the Director of Undergraduate Studies and the Chair of the Department of Biology.
Concentration in Microbiology (MIB)
This concentration offers lecture and laboratory courses in microbiology to prepare students for employment or advanced study in microbial genetics, physiology, diversity, and related fields.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Biology Electives for the Microbiology Concentration | ||
Required Microbiology Courses | ||
| BIOL 305 & BIOL 306 | Biology of Microorganisms and Biology of Microorganisms Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 405 | Microbial Genetics | 4 |
| BIOL 407 | Microbial Diversity | 4 |
Additional Biology Courses | ||
| Select 5 credits from the following: | 5 | |
| Introduction to Research Design and Analysis | ||
| Introduction to Virology | ||
| Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering | ||
| Phage Discovery | ||
| Medical Microbiology | ||
| Phage Genomics | ||
| Current Topics in Microbiology | ||
| Vaccines | ||
| Immunology | ||
| Immunology Laboratory | ||
| Fungi and Ecosystems | ||
| General Biochemistry | ||
| Additional Chemistry Courses | ||
| CHEM 314 & CHEM 318 | Organic Chemistry II and Organic Chemistry Lab II | 5 |
| Total Credits | 22 | |
Mason Core and Elective Credits
In order to meet a minimum of 120 credits, this degree requires additional credits (specific credit counts by concentration are shown below), which may be applied toward any remaining Mason Core requirements (outlined below), Requirements for Bachelor's Degrees, and electives. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their advisors to ensure that they fulfill all requirements.
- Without concentration: 40-46 credits
- BNF concentration: 32-40 credits
- BP concentration: 39-44 credits
- BTMB concentration: 39-41 credits
- ESCB concentration: 37-43 credits
- MIB concentration: 37-38 credits
Mason Core
Some Mason Core requirements may already be fulfilled by the major requirements listed above. Students are strongly encouraged to consult their advisors to ensure they fulfill all remaining Mason Core requirements.
All Integration-level requirements must be completed at George Mason and cannot be satisfied through transfer credit. These courses are integral to the university's educational philosophy and ensure that all graduates demonstrate proficiency in writing, critical thinking, and integrative learning consistent with the university's standards. Rare exceptions to this policy may only be granted by the Provost's Office.
Students who have completed the following credentials are eligible for a waiver of the Foundation and Exploration (lower level) requirement categories with the exception of Written Communication, which must be met by transferring in or taking an approved coruse at George Mason University. The Integration category (upper level) is not waived under this policy. See Admissions for more information.
- VCCS Uniform Certificate of General Studies
- VCCS or Richard Bland Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Arts and Sciences (A.A.&S.), or Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Requirements | ||
| Written Communication (lower-level) | 3 | |
| Oral Communication | 3 | |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | |
| Information Technology and Computing | 3 | |
| Exploration Requirements | ||
| Arts | 3 | |
| Global Contexts | 3 | |
| Global History | 3 | |
| Literature | 3 | |
| Natural Science | 7 | |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences | 3 | |
| Just Societies (optional) 1 | ||
| Integration Requirements | ||
| Written Communication (upper-level) | 3 | |
| Writing Intensive 2 | 3 | |
| Mason Apex 3 | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 40 | |
- 1
In addition to covering content related to the designated category, Exploration level courses marked with a Just Societies "flag" are specifically designed to help students learn how to interact effectively with others from all walks of life, including those with backgrounds and beliefs that differ from their own. Students who wish to increase their knowledge and skills in this area may choose to enroll in a Just Societies-flagged course. Students interested in this approach to completing their Mason Core Exploration Requirements should work closely with their advisor to identify the appropriate Just Societies-flagged courses.
- 2
Most programs include the writing-intensive course designated for the major as part of the major requirements; this course is therefore not counted towards the total required for Mason Core.
- 3
Minimum 3 credits required.
Honors in the Major
Admissions
Minimum requirements for invitation:
- GPA in biology courses must be 3.33 or better
- GPA in supporting requirements (math and other science) must be 3.00 or better
- Grade of ‘B’ or better in BIOL 213 Cell Structure and Function and BIOL 215 Cell Structure and Function Laboratory.
Students should apply for admission to the Honors Program during their first or second year at the university. Contact the Department of Biology for information on applying.
Retention Requirements
Students in honors biology must maintain a biology GPA of 3.33 or better and a supporting GPA of 3.00 or better from the time they have accumulated 30 hours and thereafter. Students who fall below this standard will be given a one semester probationary period in which to bring their GPA back up to the minimum standard.
Requirements to Graduate with Biology Honors
Students are required to take 6 to 8 credits in honors courses in BIOL including three semesters of BIOL 494 Honors Seminar in Biology or two semesters of BIOL 494 Honors Seminar in Biology and one semester of BIOL 493 Honors Research in Biology. BIOL 498 Research Seminar may count towards one of the semester requirements of BIOL 494 Honors Seminar in Biology. The GPA requirements are as follows:
- Minimum 3.33 GPA in honors biology courses
- Minimum 3.33 GPA in biology requirements
- Minimum 3.00 GPA in supporting requirements
- Minimum 3.00 GPA overall
Biology, BS/Biology, Accelerated MS
Overview
Highly-qualified undergraduates may be admitted to the combined bachelor's and accelerated master's degree pathway program (accelerated master’s or BAM) and obtain a Biology, BS and a Biology, MS through the Biology, BS/Biology, Accelerated MS in an accelerated time-frame after satisfactory completion of a minimum of 138 credits.
See AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees for policies related to this program.
Students in an accelerated master’s degree program must fulfill all university
requirements for the master's degree. For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.
BAM Pathway Admission Requirements
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in the Graduate Admission Policies and accelerated master's degree policies.
Students will be considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completion of a minimum of 60 credits with an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.00, and:
- Students should seek out the Biology, MS Program Director who will aid in preparing the plan of study and the student for success in graduate studies,
- Provide two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources, and
- Students are encouraged to have completed a selection of the courses listed below with a grade of B or better:
Undergraduate Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 213 & BIOL 215 | Cell Structure and Function and Cell Structure and Function Laboratory | 4 |
| BIOL 214 | Biostatistics for Biology Majors | 4 |
| BIOL 300 | BioDiversity | 4 |
| or BIOL 311 & BIOL 313 | General Genetics and General Genetics Laboratory | |
Students who are accepted into the BAM Pathway will be allowed to register for graduate-level courses after the successful completion of a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits.
Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements
Undergraduate students already admitted to the BAM Pathway will be admitted to the intended master’s program if they have met the following criteria that
will be verified:
- Submission of BAM Transition Form by the deadline stated on the form.
- Sufficient minimum overall 3.00 cumulative GPA for conferred undergraduate degree (which does not include any earned reserve graduate credits), including a GPA of 3.00 in biology coursework.
- Completion of approved advanced standing courses and any reserve graduate courses that have met the minimum grade requirement (please refer to AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees).
- Successful completion of required minimum of 120 credits needed for undergraduate degree conferral (after exclusion of any satisfactory reserve graduate credits earned).
- Successfully meeting George Mason’s requirements for undergraduate degree conferral (graduation) and timely submission of the application for graduation.
Accelerated Pathway Requirements
To maintain the integrity and quality of both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs, undergraduate students interested in taking graduate courses must choose from the following:
Advanced Standing Courses
Students must complete at least 3 credits from the following list of graduate-level courses, while in undergraduate status, up to a maximum of 12:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 502 | Adaptation in Biosystems | 3 |
| BIOL 508 | Selected Topics in Animal Biology (When the topic is "Mechanisms of Aging" or "Research and Development in Biotechnology Companies" or "Biology of Obesity and Weight Loss") | 3 |
| BIOL 580 | Computer Applications for the Life Sciences | 3 |
| or BINF 630 | Bioinformatics Methods | |
| BIOL 682 | Advanced Eukaryotic Cell Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 689 | Interdisciplinary Tools in the Biosciences | 3 |
| BIOL 690 | Introduction to Graduate Studies in Biology | 1 |
| BIOL 691 | Current Topics in Biology (When the topic is "Principles of Biomedical Literature Review") | 3 |
| BIOL 695 | Seminar in Molecular, Microbial, and Cellular Biology | 1 |
Reserve Graduate Credits
While in undergraduate student status, students may complete up to 6 credits of graduate-level coursework that will only count toward the graduate degree program. Reserve credits must be selected from the curated list of courses above.
For more detailed information on coursework and timeline requirements, see AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree and AP.1.4.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates.
Bachelor's Degree (selected), Bioinformatics Management, Accelerated PSM
Overview
This bachelor's/accelerated master's degree program allows academically strong undergraduates with a commitment to advance their education to obtain both the Biology, BS, or the Chemistry, BS, or the Computational and Data Sciences, BS, or the Physics, BS, or the Neuroscience, BS and the Bioinformatics Management, PSM degrees within an accelerated timeframe. Upon completion of this 138 credit accelerated program, students will be exceptionally well prepared for entry into their careers or into a doctoral program in the field or in a related discipline.
Students are eligible to apply for this accelerated program once they have earned at least 60 undergraduate credits and can enroll in up to 18 credits of graduate coursework after successfully completing 75 undergraduate credits. This flexibility makes it possible for students to complete a bachelor's and a master's in five years.
For more detailed information, see AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees. For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies. For more information on undergraduates enrolling in graduate courses, see AP.1.4.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates.
Application Requirements
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in the Graduate Admission Policies section of this catalog.
Important application information and processes for this accelerated master's program can be found here.
Students in the Biology, BS; Chemistry, BS; Computational and Data Sciences, BS; Neuroscience, BS; or Physics, BS with an overall GPA of at least 3.00 in their last 60 credits are welcome to apply to the Bioinformatics Management, PSM accelerated master's program. Applicants to this accelerated master's should have previously taken courses in molecular biology, computer science, calculus, physical chemistry, and statistics. Students with deficiencies in one or more of these areas may be required to take additional courses from the undergraduate curriculum.
The GRE requirement is waived for students accepted into this accelerated program.
Students should seek out the graduate program's advisor who will aid in choosing the appropriate graduate courses and help prepare the student for graduate studies.
Accelerated Option Requirements
After the completion of 75 undergraduate credits, students may complete 3 to 12 credits of graduate coursework that can apply to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees.
In addition to applying to graduate from the undergraduate program, students in the accelerated program must submit a bachelor's/accelerated master's transition form (available from the Office of the University Registrar) to the College of Science's Office of Academic and Student Affairs by the last day to add classes of their final undergraduate semester. Students should enroll for courses in the master's program in the fall or spring semester immediately following conferral of the bachelor's degree, but should contact an advisor if they would like to defer up to one semester.
Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.00 or higher in all graduate coursework and should consult with their faculty advisor to coordinate their academic goals.
Reserve Graduate Credits
Accelerated master's students may also take up to 6 graduate credits as reserve graduate credits. These credits do not apply to the undergraduate degree, but will reduce the master's degree by up to 6 credits. With 12 graduate credits counted toward the undergraduate and graduate degrees plus the maximum 6 reserve graduate credits, the credits necessary for the graduate degree can be reduced by up to 18.
Graduate Course Suggestions
The following list of suggested courses is provided for general reference. To ensure an efficient route to graduation and post-graduation readiness, students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor before registering for graduate-level courses.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BINF 630 | Bioinformatics Methods | 3 |
| BINF 631 | Molecular Cell Biology for Bioinformatics | 3 |
| GBUS 623 | Marketing Management | 3 |
| GBUS 643 | Managerial Finance | 3 |
| GBUS 738 | Introduction to Machine Learning for Business Applications | 3 |
Bachelor's Degree (selected)/Quantum Science and Engineering, Accelerated MS
Overview
Highly-qualified undergraduates may be admitted to the combined bachelor's and accelerated master's degree pathway program (BAM Pathway) and obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in any College of Science major and a Master of Science in Quantum Science and Engineering in an accelerated time-frame after satisfactory completion of a minimum of 138 credits.
This accelerated option is offered jointly by undergraduate Bachelor of Science programs in the College of Science and the Quantum Science and Engineering, MS program, which is jointly offered by the College of Science and the College of Engineering and Computing.
Students in an accelerated master’s degree program must fulfill all university
requirements for the master's degree. See AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree for policies related to this program. For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.
BAM Pathway Admission Requirements
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in Graduate Admissions Policies and accelerated master's degree policies.
Students must major in a College of Science Bachelor of Science program and will be considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completion of a minimum of 60 credits.
Students who are accepted into the BAM Pathway will be allowed to register for graduate level courses after successful completion of a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits.
Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements
Undergraduate students already admitted to the BAM Pathway will be admitted to the intended master’s program if they have met the following criteria that will be verified:
- Submission of BAM Transition Form by stated deadline.
- Sufficient minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for conferred undergraduate degree (which does not include any earned reserve graduate credits).
- Completion of approved advanced standing courses and any reserve graduate courses; please refer to policy A.P. 6.7.
- Successful completion of required minimum of 120 credits needed for undergraduate degree conferral (after exclusion any satisfactory reserve graduate credits earned).
- Successfully meeting George Mason’s requirements for undergraduate degree conferral (graduation) and timely submitting the application for graduation.
Accelerated Pathway Requirements
To maintain the integrity and quality of both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs, undergraduate students interested in taking graduate courses must choose from the following:
Advanced Standing Courses
Students must complete at least 3 credits from the following list of graduate-level courses while in undergraduate status, up to a maximum of 12.
Students are encouraged to consult with both their undergraduate advisor and the Quantum Science and Engineering, MS advisor:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select from the following options: | 3-12 | |
| Up to one 500-600 level specialized course from the following: | ||
| Computer Simulation in Astronomy | ||
| Numerical Methods for Bioinformatics | ||
| Analysis of Algorithms | ||
| Advanced Algorithms | ||
| Foundations of Parallel Computation | ||
| Numerical Methods | ||
| Computer Architecture | ||
| Applied Cryptography | ||
| Error Control Coding | ||
| Post-Quantum Cryptography | ||
| Remote Sensing | ||
| Numerical Linear Algebra | ||
| Numerical Analysis | ||
| Numerical Solutions of Differential Equations | ||
| Operations Research: Deterministic Optimization | ||
| Operations Research: Stochastic Models | ||
| Stochastic Optimization | ||
| Computational Physics I | ||
| Computational Physics II | ||
| Remaining credits are selected from the following: | ||
| Ideas in Quantum Science and Technology | ||
| Mathematical Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Programming Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Classical and Quantum Information Theory | ||
| Quantum Algorithms | ||
| Applications of Quantum Technology | ||
| Quantum Computing System Design | ||
or ECE 570 | Quantum Computing System Design | |
Reserve Credit Courses
Students may complete up to 6 credits while in undergraduate student status, of graduate-level coursework from the list below that will only count toward the graduate degree program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select up to 6 credits of not previously completed courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Ideas in Quantum Science and Technology | ||
| Mathematical Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Programming Foundations of QSE 1 | ||
| Classical and Quantum Information Theory | ||
| Quantum Algorithms | ||
| Applications of Quantum Technology | ||
| Quantum Computing System Design | ||
or ECE 570 | Quantum Computing System Design | |
- 1
As only one of these courses count for Quantum Science and Engineering, MS, credit, and these courses may not be necessary for all students, consult with an academic advisor prior to enrolling in QSE 501 Mathematical Foundations of QSE or QSE 502 Programming Foundations of QSE.
For more detailed information on coursework and timeline requirements, see AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degree and AP.1.4.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates.