Minor in Biological Sciences

A group of students and an instructor walk single file through a wooded forest, participating in an outdoor learning activity among trees and dense green foliage.

Go deeper in biology and build advanced lab skills

The biological sciences minor at the University at Buffalo helps you build core knowledge in how living systems work, from molecules to organisms to evolution. You’ll take key biology and chemistry courses, gain lab experience and add a science credential that supports many academic and career paths.

Why choose a minor in biological sciences?

A minor in biological sciences helps you connect your primary field of study to the life sciences. It is a strong choice if you want to:

  • Strengthen preparation for health-related careers or graduate study
  • Build confidence in lab-based thinking and scientific problem solving
  • Add biology knowledge that supports fields like psychology, public health, environmental work or education

This minor allows you to explore biology in a structured way without committing to a second major.

Who this minor is for

The biological sciences minor works well for students who want focused biology coursework alongside another major. Students from across the College of Arts and Sciences and beyond use the minor to deepen scientific understanding, strengthen applications for advanced study or broaden career options.

Program overview

Students complete a set of biology core courses, at least one additional biology lab and elective credits to reach the required total. The minor also includes required chemistry coursework that supports biological study.

For full details on requirements and course sequencing, consult the official UB course catalog.

What you will learn

Through the minor, students build a broad foundation in biological science and an understanding of key biological principles. Coursework develops proficiency across five major areas:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Cell biology
  • Physiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics

Students also gain experience thinking scientifically, interpreting data and understanding how biological systems function and change.

Take the next step

If you are looking for a biology degree with deeper coursework, more lab experience and advanced study in an area you care about, the BS in Biological Sciences at UB is a strong next step.

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