General Studies
Biological, Mathematical and Physical
Sciences
This division of general studies is for students who are
interested in interdisciplinary programs in science or
mathematics which offer broader options in course
selections than are possible within single departments.
Students who wish to earn a Bachelor of Science degree
will devise an approved, coherent program of study with
the coordinator which fulfills an academic or career goal
and includes prerequisites consistent with the
upper-division major course work. In addition, each
student will satisfy the General Education Requirements
and any additional requirements of the College of
Sciences.
Total credits for graduation of 120 semester hours should include 40 credits or more in courses at the 300 and 400 level.
The General Studies Office is located in Troy Hall room 305 on the Pullman Campus. The telephone number is 509-335-4549.
Plan A Primary/Secondary
Concentration
Primary concentration: a minimum of 24 semester credits,
including at least 15 upper-division credits, must be
completed in biological sciences, in mathematics or in a
single physical science with a minimum 2.00 primary
concentration g.p.a. Students who complete one of the
above primary concentrations will receive a Bachelor of
Science degree with a primary concentration in general
biological sciences (Gen B), general mathematics (Gen M)
or general physical sciences (Gen P).
Secondary concentration: a minimum of 15 semester credits, including at least 6 upper-division credits, must be completed in another academic department, program or area with a minimum 2.0 secondary concentration g.p.a.
Plan B Three Related Areas in Biological
Sciences
A combination of biological sciences courses of at least
39 credits in three or more departments or programs
including at least 9 credits in each department or
program and 21 upper-division hours must be completed
with at least a 2.0 g.p.a in these courses. The related
areas in general biological sciences (Gen B) include
biology, biochemistry, botany, genetics and cell biology,
microbiology, zoology and approved biology-based courses
in agriculture. Students who complete a Plan B curriculum
receive a Bachelor of Science degree with a major
concentration in general biological sciences (Gen B).
Plan C Three Related Areas in Physical
Sciences
A combination of physical sciences and mathematics
courses of at least 39 credits in three or more
departments or programs including at least 9 credits in
each department or program and 21 upper-division hours
must be completed with at least a 2.0 g.p.a. in these
courses. The related areas in mathematical and physical
sciences include chemistry, computer science, geology,
mathematics, pharmacy, physics, and math/science-based
engineering courses. Students who complete a Plan C
curriculum receive a Bachelor of Science degree with a
major concentration in general physical sciences (Gen P).
Prerequisite Courses
General Biological Sciences (Gen
B): One year biology, one semester
introductory calculus, one year general chemistry, and
one semester organic chemistry.
General Physical Sciences (Gen P): One year calculus, one year calculus-based physics, and one year general chemistry. (Students who plan a major concentration in chemistry should also include quantitative and organic chemistry. Physical geology is a prerequisite for upper-division geology courses.)
General Mathematics (Gen M): Three semesters calculus and linear algebra.