text: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) students in the biology major can specialize in one of three specializations: basic biology, biology secondary education or preprofessional biology. These specializations require significant introductory coursework and credits in calculus and/or statistics, general chemistry, organic chemistry and physics. Otherwise, they vary in the specific introductory courses and courses that satisfy the degree. These differences provide the options that distinguish one specialization from another. Students can also individualize their curricula with additional biology courses from other departments, colleges and units in the life sciences at UF.
  All biology, botany and zoology majors are encouraged to participate in research. Research experience is valuable on many levels: It diversifies your college experience; it teaches you how scientists apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real world questions; it gives you the opportunity to work with and get to know researchers who are the best in their field; it introduces you to cutting edge scientific questions and techniques; it can enhance your resume/CV when applying to graduate or professional school; and finally, it is essential to help you determine if science is a good career choice for you.
  CLAS preprofessional biology, botany and zoology majors may participate in research for course credit, as a scholar (e.g., University Scholar, HHMI Science for Life Scholar, Beckman Scholar), as a volunteer, or, in rare cases, as a paid research assistant. Please visit Undergraduate Research for more information regarding course credit. Students who plan to enroll for course credit must contact potential research mentors before the end of drop/add. If they miss the drop/add window, they should still contact potential research mentors, if only to discuss upcoming opportunities.
  This specialization is designed for biology majors seeking admission to graduate school in biochemistry, botany, molecular biology, entomology, ecology, fisheries, forestry, wildlife, zoology or other related specialties.