Undergraduate

Biology

Explore key concepts in ecology, genetics, and physiology while developing hands-on research skills.

Degree

Minor

Location

Durham, NH

Courses

Credit

20 hrs.

Full-time

- -

Part-time

- -

View course catalog

student attaching a trail camera to a tree

Apply now Request info Visit campus

Biological Sciences

The Biology minor at UNH provides a strong foundation in how living systems function and interact. You’ll explore core topics in ecology, genetics and physiology while developing hands-on research skills.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and lab experience, helping you apply biological principles across fields. Coursework strengthens scientific problem-solving abilities, enhancing your primary degree with valuable insights into the life sciences.

Department of Biological Sciences

Key Links

Tuition Costs

Contact Cards

Patricia Jarema

Senior Lecturer

Patricia.Jarema@unh.edu

Spaulding Hall, Room 256, Durham, NH 03824

(603) 862-4466

Maria Shortt

Administrative Coordinator

Maria.Shortt@unh.edu

Spaulding Hall, Room 116b, Durham, NH 03824

(603) 862-4400

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

Curriculum & Requirements

Program Description

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.

Requirements for the Program

Academic policies related to Minors.

Course List
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
Organismal Survey Courses ¹
Animal Survey - select one course from the following:		4-5
MEFB 628	Marine Invertebrate Evolution and Ecology
ZOOL 542	Ornithology
ZOOL 710	Sharks and Bony Fishes
ZOOL 566	Herpetology
NR 712	Mammalogy
Plant or Fungi Survey - select one course from the following:		4
BIOL 566	Systematic Botany (Plant Survey Course)
BIOL 752	New England Mushrooms: a Field and Lab Exploration (Fungus Survey Course)
Total Credits		20-21