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2016-2017 University Catalog 
  
2016-2017 University Catalog

Career Changer's Biological Sciences Undergraduate Certificate


Banner Code: SC-CERB-CCBS

College: College of Science  
Department: Biology  

This certificate is offered by the Department of Biology  in the College of Science .

Post-baccalaureate students are invited to enroll in the Career Changer's Biological Sciences Undergraduate Certificate . By completing this program, students will be qualified to apply for most graduate programs in the biological sciences including medical, dental, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, and veterinary schools. However, graduate and professional school undergraduate coursework requirements can vary; it is prudent to check the coursework requirements for each individual school.

This certificate may be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis.

Important information and departmental policies are listed in the Department of Biology  section of this catalog.

Admission Requirements

In concert with the requirements outlined in the Admissions  section of this catalog, admission into this certificate requires:

  • The desire to pursue a career in biological sciences or the health professions (research, medicine, dentistry, teaching, law etc.);
  • A conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a GPA of 3.00 or higher;
  • A completed Mason admission application along with a the appropriate application fee; and
  • Two sets of official transcripts from each institution attended.

Standardized test scores are not required.

Certificate Fees

In addition to tuition and the usual laboratory and College of Science  fees, a fee of $500 per semester will be assessed to defray the costs of the outside speakers and the additional administrative work associated with this certificate.

Notes

  • Each student must see an advisor in the Department of Biology  prior to registration each semester.
  • The program will normally take four semesters to complete for a full-time student.
  • It is recommended that students interested in healthcare professions do the following:

Certificate Requirements


To earn this certificate, a student must pass all of the courses listed below with a grade no lower than ‘B-’ and achieve a GPA of at least 3.40. Some courses can be waived if previously taken during undergraduate training. Substitutions will be recommended where appropriate.

Cell Biology, Biostatistics, and Genetics (12 credits)


Additional Upper-level Biology (12 credits)


Choose three additional 300, 400, or 500-level BIOL courses (with the exception of BIOL 310 ) in consultation with an academic advisor.

Psychology and Sociology (6 credits)


Choose 6 credits of psychology and/or sociology courses in consultation with the biology advisor.

Mathematics (3-4 credits)


Calculus is recommended, but not required.

Career Seminars


These seminars will be organized each semester and will feature outside speakers from a wide variety of biologically-oriented professions.

Certificate Total: 63-64 credits