A minor in biology is designed for students who wish to:

• increase their knowledge of biology,
• increase their biological literacy,
• develop critical thinking skills, and
• acquire a foundation in biological sciences and critical thinking.

Students may plan a broad-based minor, containing courses from each of the major organizational divisions of living things: cells, organisms, and communities. The minor may also focus on a particular aspect of biology such as botany, ecology, or molecular biology.

To earn a minor in biology, students must complete a minimum of 24 hours in biology, of which at least eight hours must be upper-division courses taken at the University of Illinois Springfield. Electives should be selected in consultation with a biology faculty member. Some upper-division courses have particular prerequisites other than general biology. The faculty advisor will ensure that each student is properly prepared.