B.S. in Biology
Biology is one of the most diverse and exciting fields of study in science today, exploring the structure of molecules essential for life, the development and physiology of living organisms, as well as the genetic structure of natural populations of organisms.
LAU’s B.S. in Biology program is committed to academic excellence and provides students with a solid foundation in the biological sciences in preparation for careers in biology, biotechnology and related advanced study in the biomedical and environmental sciences, while maintaining the tradition of liberal arts education.
Students enrolled in the program acquire the necessary theoretical background, analytical skills, and hands-on laboratory research experience to pursue advanced studies in various fields related to biology, medicine, and environmental and allied health sciences. The program is not only tailored for students planning to enter M.S. or Ph.D. programs, but also for pre-pharmacy and pre-medical students. The new program curriculum ensures that pre-medical students are properly prepared for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
Students in the B.S. in Biology program also have the option to complete a minor in chemistry by taking one additional chemistry course.
Resources
Students enrolled in the program have access to modern laboratories equipped with both basic and cutting-edge technology and instruments. Students can conduct simple to advanced research in physiology, microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, biotechnology and ecology. Also, students in the program are provided with access to all physical and electronic resources offered by the LAU libraries as well as necessary IT support.
The program requires 96 credits. The department has prepared a three-year study plan that students are advised to observe. Following the plan, students can graduate in three years, including two summer modules.
Curriculum
Biology (35 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| BIO201 | General Biology I | 4 |
| BIO202 | General Biology II | 4 |
| BIO311 | Microbiology | 3 |
| BIO312 | Microbiology Lab | 1 |
| BIO321 | Genetics | 3 |
| BIO322 | Genetics Lab | 1 |
| BIO331 | Ecology | 4 |
| BIO343 | Anatomy and Physiology | 3 |
| BIO344 | Anatomy and Physiology Lab | 1 |
| BIO345 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 4 |
| BIO499 | Senior Study | 3 |
| BCH301 | Introduction to Biochemistry | 4 |
Biology Elective (6 credits)
Choose two Biology Elective courses
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| BIO401 | Developmental Biology | 3 |
| BIO341 | Plant Physiology | 3 |
| BIO410 | Biotechnology | 3 |
| BIO420 | Virology and Immunology | 3 |
Chemistry (16 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| CHM201 | Chemical Principles | 3 |
| CHM202 | Analytical Chemistry | 3 |
| CHM204 | Quantitative Analysis | 2 |
| CHM311 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHM313 | Organic Chemistry I Lab | 1 |
| CHM312 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHM314 | Organic Chemistry II Lab | 1 |
Mathematics and Computer Science (7 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| MTH200 | Mathematics for Life Sciences | 3 |
| STA205 | Biostatistics | 3 |
| CSC201 | Computer Literacy | 1 |
Physics (8 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| PHY301 | Classical Physics for Life Sciences | 3 |
| PHY302 | Classical Physics for Life Sciences Lab | 1 |
| PHY305 | Modern Physics for Life Sciences | 3 |
| PHY306 | Modern Physics for Life Sciences Lab | 1 |
Duration
This program requires 96 credits, which can be completed in three years by those entering as sophomores. See the suggested three-year study plan.
Location
This program is offered in Beirut and Byblos.
More about this program
Mission, objectives and intended outcomes