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George Mason University
News

Department of Biology Announces Curriculum Updates Effective Fall 2026

Genevieve McKenna

The Department of Biology will implement several curriculum updates beginning Fall 2026, including changes to course credit structures and scheduling formats for key undergraduate courses. These updates are designed to improve flexibility, reduce student stress, and better align course offerings with student demand.

Expanded Flexibility Through Lecture and Lab Separation

Several core Biology courses will transition from linked lecture-laboratory formats to separate course registrations:

  • BIOL 213: Cell Structure and Function will shift from a 4-credit linked lecture/lab to a 3-credit lecture (BIOL 213) and a 1-credit lab (BIOL 215: Cell Structure and Function Lab).
  • BIOL 311: General Genetics will similarly move from a linked format to a 3-credit lecture (BIOL 311) and a 1-credit lab (BIOL 313: General Genetics Lab).

This change allows students greater flexibility in scheduling and progression through the curriculum.

Revisions to Ecology and Evolution and New Writing-Intensive Requirements

BIOL 308: Foundations of Ecology and Evolution will undergo several structural changes. 

  • Previously a 5-credit, writing-intensive course with linked lecture, lab, and recitation, BIOL 308 will now:
  • Transition to a 3-credit lecture (BIOL 308) and 1-credit lab (BIOL 338)
  • Eliminated the recitation component
  • Biol 308 will no longer carry the writing-intensive designation
  • BIOL 308 will remain a required core course. 

To support writing development within the major, a new required course, BIOL 400: News and Views (3 credits) will serve as the program’s writing-intensive requirement.

Improved Course Access and Visibility

A key benefit of these updates is the ability to introduce waitlists for both lectures and labs. Previously, linked course structures limited this capability. With separate registration:

  • Departments can better identify high-demand courses
  • Students gain increased access to full sections through waitlist movement
  • Scheduling data can more accurately inform future course offerings

Guidance for Current Students
Students who have already completed the previous linked course formats will not be required to take additional components:

  • Students who completed the 4-credit BIOL 213 do not need to enroll in BIOL 215
  • Students who completed the 5-credit BIOL 308 will not be required to take BIOL 400
  • Students who need to retake these courses must contact the Biology Department while the transition period is in place (Fall 2026-Spring 2027).

These changes reflect the department’s ongoing commitment to student success, transparency in course demand, and a more adaptable curriculum.

For more information, please contact the Department of Biology Advising Office at biology@gmu.edu.

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