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Biology (Minor)

Immerse yourself in foundational coursework in cellular, molecular, and organismal biology, genetics and ecology. Students gain hands-on lab experience and may choose electives to explore specialized topics, complementing majors across the sciences.
Type: Minor
Format: In-Person
Credit Hours: 21

UofL’s Biology minor offers a structured introduction to biology, including core courses in Unity of Life, Diversity of Life, Experimental Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Genetics and Ecology. Students complete labs and select electives to deepen understanding of specific topics, gaining practical experience that supports careers or majors in the sciences. At least three credit hours must be completed at UofL.

This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2025-Spring 2026 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information.

Minor in Biology
Unit: College of Arts and Sciences (AS)
Department: Biology 
Academic Plan Code(s): BIOLMINOR

Admission to the Minor in Biology Requires:
Completion of BIOL 240, BIOL 242, BIOL 241, and BIOL 243 with a grade of C or better; completion of MATH 111 with a grade of C or better OR placement into a mathematics course above the level of MATH 111 on the basis of either the University of Louisville mathematics placement examination or ACT/SAT score; and a minimum overall grade point average of 2.0.

Program Requirements

BIOL 240Unity of Life - S 13
BIOL 241Experimental Biology I: Molecules and Cells - SL1
BIOL 242Diversity of Life - S 13
BIOL 243Experimental Biology II: Organismal Biology - SL1
BIOL 329Cellular and Molecular Biology3
BIOL 330
BIOL 331
Genetics and Molecular Biology
Genetics and Molecular Biology: Laboratory
5
Select one of the following:3
BIOL 363
Principles of Ecology
BIOL 372
Evolutionary Ecology of Disease
BIOL 409
Evolutionary Biology - CUE
BIOL 440
Global Change Ecology - CUE
Biology Electives 22
Minimum Total Hours21

At least three (3) semester hours of the requirements for a minor must be successfully completed while enrolled in the University of Louisville. 

1

Fulfills General Education requirement.

2

BIOL 102, BIOL 104, BIOL 257, BIOL 258, BIOL 260, BIOL 261, BIOL 262 and BIOL 263 may not count toward electives in the minor.