Undergrad Students – Department of Biology

Welcome to the Biology Undergraduate Program!

We offer three Bachelor of Science Degree Programs. Our students may major in Biological Science, Biological Science with a concentration in Botany, or Zoology. Undergraduate minors in Botany and Zoology are also offered:

Biological Science

Major in Biological Science

Biological Science Major and Electives Checklist: Effective Fall 2023

This curriculum provides a broad background in the basic biological sciences, and permits students to select courses in areas of particular interest. The major is especially useful in meeting the pre-professional requirements in the biosciences. Students desiring this preparation should also check the appropriate pre-professional requirements.

The major is also useful for meeting the broad teaching endorsement requirements for secondary teachers of biological science. See the Teacher Licensure section and the Teaching Endorsement Area Requirements in the School of Education, College of Applied Human Sciences section of the CSU General Course Catalog. Course work in this major may prepare students for graduate work in areas of basic biology or in one of several areas of applied biological sciences. In addition to basic required course work, students have the opportunity to complete a minimum of 18 credits from a broad list of upper division electives. At least 9 of these credits must be “BZ” courses.

To be qualified for graduation, students in the biological science major must have a minimum grade point average of 2.00 in each of their biological, physical science, and mathematical courses used to meet requirements for the major. This applies to courses taken as substitutions for meeting these requirements. The minimum scholastic average acceptable for graduation is 2.00 computed only for courses attempted at Colorado State.

Biological Science with Botany Concentration

Major in Biological Science Botany Concentration

Botany Concentration Checklist: Effective Fall 2023

This curriculum serves both those students who are stopping with a Bachelor of Science degree and those going on to advanced studies. A general introduction to plant life is followed by an emphasis in terrestrial, vascular plant studies. Other emphases are recognized, so students are encouraged to propose course patterns different from the listed program. Students with a broad interest in biology and a liberal education should consider this major for departmental affiliation.

Students are prepared for positions with government agencies, industry, and business. Students desiring to be licensed to teach in junior and senior high schools must complete teaching endorsement requirements in biology. See the Teacher Licensure section and the Teaching Endorsement Area Requirements in the School of Education, College of Applied Human Sciences section of CSU General Course Catalog.

To be qualified for graduation, students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.00. This applies to courses taken as substitutions for meeting these requirements. The minimum scholastic average acceptable for graduation is 2.00 computed only for courses attempted at Colorado State.

Minor in Botany

The Department of Biology offers a minor in botany to provide interested students with maximum breadth and depth in botanical science utilizing a limited number of requirements. The program also serves to broaden the academic background of students seeking employment in the interdisciplinary job market associated with the plant sciences.

Botany Minor Checklist

Zoology

Major in Zoology

Zoology Major and Electives Checklist: Effective Fall 2023

This curriculum provides a general education and develops competence in the biological sciences. Students prepare to work in various areas of animal biology or to begin graduate or professional studies. It is an appropriate major for students planning to attend medical or veterinary school.

The major provides a core program with general training in animal biology and the opportunity to take courses in the following areas: animal behavior, aquatic biology, ecology, genetics and evolution, invertebrate organisms, cellular/molecular biology and physiology, systematics and morphology, or vertebrate organisms. Students desiring to be licensed to teach in junior and senior high schools must complete teaching endorsement requirements in biology. See the Teacher Licensure section and the Teaching Endorsement Area Requirements in the School of Education, College of Applied Human Sciences section of the CSU General Course Catalog. To be qualified for graduation, students in the zoology major must have a minimum grade point average of 2.00 in each of their biological, physical science, and mathematical courses used to meet requirements for the major. This applies to courses taken as substitutions for meeting these requirements. The minimum scholastic average acceptable for graduation is 2.00 computed only for courses attempted at Colorado State.

Minor in Zoology

The minor in zoology is a useful complement to a major in animal science, botany, fishery biology, geology, natural resource recreation and tourism, or wildlife biology.

Zoology Minor Checklist

Minors

Minor in Botany

Botany Minor Checklist

Minor in Zoology

The minor in zoology is a useful complement to a major in animal science, botany, fishery biology, geology, natural resource recreation and tourism, or wildlife biology.

Zoology Minor Checklist

Interested in adding a Botany or Zoology Minor?

Fill out this form!

Add a Botany or Zoology Minor

Biology Courses

Summer 2026

Summer Course Flyers

Featured Courses

LIFE 102 – Attributes of Living Systems

This course is an introductory biology course that works well for both incoming Freshmen and outgoing Seniors. It not only provides a basis for more-advanced courses in life sciences, but also serves as an effective review for more-advanced students.

LIFE 103 – Biology of Organisms

This course introduces students to the incredible diversity of life, from microbes to mammals. It’s a great fit for anyone needing a solid foundation in organismal biology, whether you’re just starting out or preparing for upper‑division biology courses. Students explore how organisms function, adapt, and interact with their environments through both lecture and hands‑on lab work.

LIFE 320 – Ecology

This course offers a deep look at how organisms interact with each other and their environments, making it ideal for students interested in environmental science, conservation, or biological research. Through key ecological concepts and real‑world examples, students gain the tools to understand and analyze ecological patterns across multiple scales. It’s a strong next step after introductory biology courses for anyone wanting a more integrated view of the natural world.

BZ214 – Vertebrates

Gain insight into the evolution of anatomical, physiological, and ecological traits in vertebrate animals. The course features a dissection-based lab and serves as a foundation for advanced training in ichthyology, herpetology, ornithology, and mammalogy.

BZ220 – Introduction to Evolution

Students will explore fundamental concepts in evolutionary biology, including mechanisms of evolution, patterns of speciation, and biodiversity. The course provides a strong foundation for advanced studies in biology or ecology.

BZ223 – Plant Identification

With the ecological and environmental issues we are facing as a society, plant Identification skills are more important than ever. Learn how to identify flowering plants in a way that will serve you no matter where you live/work in the future!

BZ300 – Animal Behavior

Explore the fascinating world of animal behavior through evolutionary and mechanistic approaches. Investigate how and why animals behave as they do, linking behavior to brain function, genetics, hormones, and ecology. This integrative course provides a strong foundation for understanding the functional and evolutionary basis of behavior.

BZ310 – Cell Biology

Dive into the structure and function of cells, with an emphasis on molecular mechanisms driving communication, metabolism, and genetic regulation. Foundational theory and hands-on laboratory work prepare students for advanced studies in modern cell biology.

BZ311 – Developmental Biology

The details of life are important. Join us in developmental biology, where we discuss how organisms form.

BZ333 – Mycology

Dive into the fascinating world of fungi! Students will explore the diversity, ecology, and evolution of the fungal kingdom. Learn to isolate and culture fungi, stain mycorrhizae in plant roots, and uncover the critical roles fungi play in ecosystems. This hybrid course combines hands-on lab work and engaging lectures to provide a comprehensive understanding of mycology.

BZ339.001 – Biology Field Practicum: Entomology

Discover the incredible diversity of insect life through hands-on learning! This field-based course combines classroom instruction with biweekly visits to local field sites, where students will study insect ecology, experimental design, and insect collection curation. By the end of the course, students will develop a research proposal and curate their own insect collection. Ideal for students interested in entomology, ecology, or field research, this course provides the skills and experience needed to explore the role of insects in ecosystems.

BZ339.002 – Field Methods in Front Range Ecosystem Ecology

Immerse yourself in the study of grassland and foothill ecosystems! This field studies course introduces students to critical research techniques, including field methodologies, experimental design, and data collection. Participants will visit active research sites and work alongside CSU ecologists to design and implement their own research projects. Ideal for students interested in ecology, conservation, or field research, this course provides hands-on experience and prepares students for advanced studies in ecosystem science.

BZ340 – Field Mammalogy

Immerse yourself in the study of wild mammals, where students will learn field research techniques and explore mammalian ecology. This course includes hands-on research, team-based projects, and a week-long residency at the CSU Mountain Campus. Perfect for students passionate about wildlife and fieldwork, this course offers a unique opportunity to study mammals in their natural habitats.

BZ349 – Tropical Ecology & Evolution

Discover the vibrant biodiversity of tropical ecosystems in this engaging course that explores terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments. Learn how ecological and evolutionary processes generate and sustain tropical diversity while comparing it to temperate patterns. Students will gain insight into key ecological concepts, defining features of tropical flora and fauna, and the socio-political history of tropical research, all while addressing critical environmental challenges and the global importance of tropical ecosystems for sustainability.

BZ350-401 – Molecular & General Genetics

Explore how genetic information is transmitted across generations, why offspring resemble their parents, and why these resemblances are not always complete. Because this course is online and asynchronous, it is a great option for students who have a summer job or internship and can’t take an in person class.

BZ415 – Marine Biology

Explore the vast diversity of marine life, from microscopic organisms to the largest creatures in the ocean. This upper-level course examines the relationships between marine organisms and their environments, highlighting the importance of marine ecosystems to life on Earth. Students will engage in lectures, discussions, and a final research or public service presentation in this hybrid course.

BZ479 – Biology and Behavior of Dogs

Investigate the biology and behavior of domestic dogs in this online course. Examine scientific literature on dog physiology, development, genetics, and behavior, focusing on the evolutionary and domestication processes that shape canine traits. Learn about the impact of selective breeding and gain insight into the relationship between humans and dogs. Perfect for students interested in animal behavior, evolutionary biology, or veterinary science, this course is offered in an asynchronous, online format for flexible learning.

Fall 2026

A colorful flyer showcasing Colorado State University's Fall Session 2026 Biology Courses. The left panel features QR codes for scheduling an appointment with an Academic Success Coordinator and accessing the Office of the Registrar for course information. The right panel lists a wide variety of biology courses, including foundational classes like Principles of Plant Biology and Cell Biology, specialized topics such as Molecular Genetics and Parasitology, and unique offerings like Biology & Behavior of Cats and Study Abroad: Practices in Marine Biology & Ecology. The background features a vibrant autumn scene of the CSU campus, with trees in full fall colors and students walking along the pathways. A note reminds students to verify course offerings on RamWeb.

Fall Course Flyers

Featured Courses

LIFE 102 – Attributes of Living Systems

BZ111 – Animal Biology Lab

Explore the fascinating world of animal biology through hands-on lab exercises that examine anatomy, physiology, behavior, and evolutionary adaptations across diverse species. Perfect for students passionate about zoology, ecology, and veterinary science!

BZ120 – Principles of Plant Biology

Gain insight into the world of plants and uncover their unique relationships, structures, and adaptations that make life on Earth possible. This course combines hands-on labs and engaging lectures to explore how plants thrive, evolve, and shape ecosystems. This course is perfect for anyone curious about the science behind the natural world!

BZ192 – First Year Seminar

Kickstart your journey in biology or zoology with this 1-credit seminar designed to help you explore career paths, connect with faculty, and navigate your major successfully. Gain the tools and resources you need to achieve your academic and professional goals!

BZ220 – Introduction to Evolution

BZ223 – Plant Identification

BZ300 – Animal Behavior

For anyone interested in understanding how and why animals do what they do!

BZ572 – Phytoremediation

Our planet faces numerous environmental risks stemming from industrial development, including mining, gas emissions, chemical fertilizers, pesticide applications, and municipal waste generation. The accumulation of these contaminants in soil, water, and air harms plants, animals, humans, and the environment. Various strategies, such as chemical-based, physicochemical, and biological methods, have been employed to remediate these pollutants. Among these, the biological methods, especially phytoremediation, are the most accepted strategy because they are energy efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. It is important to understand the sources of different pollutants and how we can reduce their accumulation at both the generation and decontamination levels. In this course, we will cover the different types of pollutants and their sources, the various strategies to remediate them, and the pros and cons of each approach with emphasis on bioremediation. This limited seats, 3-credit course will provide each student with the opportunity to practice searching databases, preparing reports or reviews, creating presentations, presenting to a group, and participating in scientific discussions in addition to acquiring knowledge about the course subject. Graduate and undergraduate students from biology, horticulture, soil and crop science, forestry, ecology, chemistry, and engineering will benefit from this course.