Shenandoah Biology BS Transfer Guide

Bachelor of Science in Biology
Catalog Year 2025-2026
Based on VCCS Curriculum for BIOLOGY
|
Complete at a Virginia Community College |
Credits |
Course Equivalent |
Notes |
|
SDV 100 or 101 |
1-2 |
STSK 101 |
College Success Skills or Orientation |
|
ENG 111 |
3 |
ShenEd |
College Comp I |
|
ENG 112 |
3 |
ShenEd |
College Comp II |
|
Any UCGS Art or Humanities |
3 |
ShenEd |
|
|
Any UCGS Art, Humanities, or Literature |
3 |
ShenEd |
This course must be from different category than previous course |
|
Any UCGS Social & Behavioral Science (not History) |
3 |
ShenEd |
|
|
BIO 101 |
4 |
BIO 121 |
Gen Bio I |
|
MTH 245 |
3 |
ShenEd |
Statistics; Prerequisites Required: MTH 154 or MTH 161 |
|
MTH 161 and MTH 162 |
6 |
MATH 101 and MATH 102 |
Precalculus I and Precalculus II |
|
Any UCGS History |
3 |
ShenEd |
|
|
BIO 102 |
4 |
BIO 122 |
Gen Bio II |
|
CHM 111 |
4 |
CHEM 121 |
Gen Chem I |
|
CHM 112 |
4 |
CHEM 122 |
Gen Chem II |
|
BIO 205 |
4 |
BIO 260 |
General Microbiology |
|
CHM 241 Organic Chem I + CHM 245 lab, or BIO 141 Anatomy and Physiology I |
3-8 |
Elective |
|
|
BIO 270 Ecology, or CHM 241 Organic Chem I + CHM 245 Lab, CHM 242 Organic CHM + CHM 246 Lab |
4 |
Elective |
|
|
Additional Transfer Courses |
6-7 |
Recommended: Secondary Language through 202 level, Math Prerequisites, BIO 141 Human Anatomy and Physiology |
|
|
Pre-Transfer Credits |
60-62 |
|
Complete at Shenandoah University |
Credits |
Notes |
|
BIO 108 & BIO 109 Understand/Communication I & II |
2 |
|
|
200+ level Biology elective |
3-4 |
Requirement may be satisfied prior by completing BIO 141 at VCCS - transfers in as SU course BIO 231 |
|
300+ level Biology electives |
10-12 |
One course must consist of a lab |
|
300+ level Chemistry Electives |
7-8 |
One course must consist of a lab - CHM 241 and CHM 242 at VCCS count towards this requirement. Transfers in as SU course CHEM 301 and 302 |
|
BIO 316 Genetics |
3 |
|
|
BIO 321 Ecology |
4 |
|
|
BIO 340 Evolution |
3 |
|
|
BIO 409 Cell Biology |
4 |
|
|
Additional Coursework for Minor, Remaining Secondary Language courses, Graduate School Prerequisites, Electives |
19-23 |
A minor or second major is required for BS Biology Major |
|
Post-Transfer Credits |
58-60 |
Transfer Guidance
Guaranteed Admission Agreement Requirements
-
Completion of Applicable Associates Degrees: AA, AS, AA&S
-
Meet minimum GPA requirement: 2.5 or higher
-
Earn grades of "C-" or higher in all community college courses
-
Applicants will need to submit an official transcript showing they have met the above requirements to the SU Office of Admissions
Important Links & Dates
-
Transfer Admissions & Services: https://www.su.edu/admissions/transfer-students/
-
Shenandoah University practices Early Action and then rolling admissions for most undergraduate programs
-
Register Intent to Transfer: through College Connect at www.TransferVirginia.org
-
Admission Application: https://www.su.edu/admissions/transfer-students/application-information/
-
Financial Aid: https://www.su.edu/financial-aid/
-
FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
What Should I Consider When Selecting Courses?
-
Create a schedule for all required courses, pay attention to prerequisites and when courses are offered, complete your first math and English courses in your first year. For help, see Transfer Steps and Resource Center at www.TransferVirginia.org
-
Connect with an advisor at your community college and Shenandoah University. College Connect available in your account at www.TransferVirginia.org
-
Your first semester courses at Shenandoah University will be chosen with the help of the Office of Academic Advising, Transitions, and Progression
Is This Degree Right For Me?
-
The Biology major allows students to pursue specialized interests in secondary biology education, microbiology and clinical laboratory sciences, cell and molecular biology, and the health-related professions including medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, pharmacy, physical therapy and other fields at the graduate level.
-
The Bachelor of Science degree provides comprehensive coverage of the biological sciences, as well as Mathematics and Chemistry courses that complement the Biology curriculum. This degree is the most appropriate path for students considering study in research-based graduate programs or technical careers upon graduation.
What Is The Impact On My Degree Of Work I Have Already Completed?
-
Associate Transfer Degree Completion: Completion of AA, AS, or AA&S degree waives the ShenEd requirement
-
Dual Enrollment -- All Dual Enrollment coursework at the 100 level or higher will be considered for credit. The completion of an Associate Degree concurrent with high school results in course work towards your degree and all general education courses satisfied.
-
Credit for Prior Learning: You can earn credit for your results on AP, IB, and CLEP exams
-
Catalog Year: Catalog year determined by first semester of attendance at Shenandoah University
-
Joint Service Transcripts: Shenandoah is a military friendly institution. SU awards credit based on ACE recommendations for students with a military background. Military personnel must provide their official transcript from their particular branch of the service by using the Joint Services Transcript request system to earn credit
Is This College Right For Me?
-
Family Atmosphere: Students often mention the close-knit community that makes SU feel like a second home.
-
Hands-On Learning: Engage in collaborative projects, capstone projects, and internships that provide real-world experience
-
Extracurricular Activities: With 22 athletics teams and over 90 clubs, you'll find an active social life and make lasting friendships
-
Professional Readiness: SU's curriculum is designed to prepare you for the professional world, with a focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.
-
Learn more about our college at www.TransferVirginia.org or su.edu
Did You Know That…
-
Completing your associate transfer degree post-high school satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor's degree?
What Can I Do With This Degree?
-
Explore possible careers, salaries, and job outlook at www.TransferVirginia.org
Program Successes & Highlights
-
You'll be in a small class with professors who know your name, care about your success and provide advice as you pursue your academic and career goals.
-
Learn more about applying at www.TransferVirginia.org
Do More With Your Degree!
-
The Pre-Health Program is designed to help guide students develop as competitive applicants to graduate schools that match their desired profession and their academic and pre-professional profile.