Adding a Biology minor to your degree will enhance your understanding of the natural world and provide a strong foundation in areas like ecology, genetics and physiology. If you are curious about life sciences and have a desire to explore biological concepts more deeply, as well as enjoy hands-on learning, research and problem-solving, this is a minor you should consider.
What is biology?
Biology is the study of living organisms, including microbes, plants and animals, and the way in which they interact with one another and their environment. The biology minor will give you an introduction to subjects such as evolution, biodiversity, ecology, and molecular and cellular biology in animals,plants and fungi. Combine your studies with a major such as education, healthcare, news media, business or environmental studies to prepare for jobs in a wide range of competitive fields or further study in graduate, medical or veterinary schools,or work for news reporting and media.
Why study biology at UNH?
Our biology program combines a challenging laboratory curriculum and engaging fieldwork with courses that capture the diversity of nature’s biological systems. UNH’s state-of-the-art facilities and location close to the New Hampshire Seacoast, Lakes Region and White Mountain National Forest provide a wide range of dynamic, hands-on research opportunities. Students are strongly encouraged to work closely with faculty in both the classroom and laboratory.
Potential career areas
- Biotechnology
- Education (teaching, research and outreach)
- Environmental conservation
- Environmental consultation
- Pharmaceuticals
- Research
- Science writing, news media or broadcasting
- State and federal agencies
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From First-Gen College Student to Accomplished Scientist and ProfessorEaston White is an assistant professor in COLSA’s department of biological sciences, and he runs the Quantitative Marine Ecology Lab.Learn More -
Doing Her Part to Keep UNH Community SafeDiya Anand is a biology major who plans to apply to medical school. She is from Andover, Mass.Learn More -
Alumnus Reflects on UNH’s Role in His SuccessAlexander Nardone is heading to the Uniform Services University of the Health Sciences School of Medicine in Bethesda, Maryland following four years in Japan as an assistant language teacher for the Japanese Exchange and Teaching Program.Learn More -
Dept. Faculty Offer Cheers and Good WishesThe Department of Biological Sciences wants to make sure all its 2020 graduates know that the faculty are thinking of them as they celebrate their achievements and look forward to what's next.Learn More -
Bonnie Brown, Amy Papineau Graduate from LEAD21Bonnie Brown and Amy Papineau were among the 90 professionals from the nation's land-grant system who recently completed the LEAD21 leadership development program.Learn More
Curriculum & Requirements
The Biology Minor is designed to give students a broad background in basic biological understanding of life processes, while providing experiences in ecology, evolution, and organismal diversity. Five courses are required for completion of the minor, of which no more than two can overlap with major requirements.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| BIOL 411 | Introductory Biology: Molecular and Cellular | 4 |
| BIOL 412 | Introductory Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity and Ecology | 4 |
| BIOL 541W | Ecology | 4 |
| or ZOOL 690 | Evolution | |
| Select two courses in organismal surveys from the below: 1 | ||
| Animal Survey: Select one course | 4-5 | |
MEFB 628 | Marine Invertebrate Evolution and Ecology | |
ZOOL 542 | Ornithology | |
ZOOL 710 | Sharks and Bony Fishes | |
NR 712 | Mammalogy | |
| Plant or Fungus Survey: Select one course | 4 | |
Plant Survey Course: | ||
BIOL 566 | Systematic Botany | |
Fungus Survey Course: | ||
BIOL 752 | New England Mushrooms: a Field and Lab Exploration | |
- 1
One course must focus on animals, and the other on plants or fungi.
