Course Advice 2011
Planning your Undergraduate Degree
Course advice in the following subjects areas is available:
Below is some advice on subject areas that do not fit directly with any one stream. Should you require further help, please contact one of our undergraduate supervisors.
What other courses should I take?
Modern biological research is undergoing some exciting changes. The barriers between traditionally separate areas of biology are breaking down, and at the same time researchers trained in mathematics, statistics, chemistry, physics, geology, geography and computer science are collaborating with biologists in new and exciting ways. This doesn’t mean you need to be an expert in everything, but the more you are comfortable with talking with and working with scientists from other fields, the better prepared you will be for the job market, whether you wish to work in industry, a research university or institute, or even science journalism.
Have a close look at the recommended additional courses you might take in the detailed course advice above.
Do I need Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Stats?
More and more areas of biology require a basic
knowledge of statistics, mathematics,
chemistry and physics. To give you some
examples, molecular biology and biochemistry
both require a working knowledge of chemistry,
the study of populations requires some
understanding of basic algebra and statistics,
the mathematics of networks applies to areas as
diverse as biochemistry and ecological food webs,
and to analyse biological data, statistics is a must.
It is also worth keeping in mind that areas of
biology which as recently as 10 years ago did not
require maths, stats, physics or chemistrniches in biological and ecological sciences for
those that are not chemically or mathematically
inclined, but background in these areas may
expand your options.
Because statistical analysis and experimental
design is such a fundamental aspect of all
biological research, all Biology majors are required
to take BIOL 209 Introduction to Biological Data
Analysis (or equivalent preparation e.g. STAT 222,
PSYC 206). Entry to this course does not require
STAT 111/101, but if you haven’t done maths or stats
at level 12 or 13, then think about doing STAT 101.
Find maths or chemistry intimidating?
Mathematics and chemistry can seem intimidating to many - if you lack confidence in these (or haven’t done them to year 13) but want to expand your background, don’t worry! UC provides plenty of support. This includes introductory courses at 1st year that are specifically tailored to biologists needs – Methods of Mathematics (MATH 101) and Introductory Chemistry (CHEM 114). There is also the Science Headstart summer programme to help you up-skill if you have no background in a range of science subjects, see www.uco.canterbury.ac.nz/bridging/headstart/courses.shtml. If in doubt, talk to one of our academic advisors!
Love maths or computers?
If you enjoy mathematics or computing, and are interested in biology, UC is well suited to cater for your needs. There are mathematicians on campus who work closely with biologists, and UC is home to the BlueFern Supercomputer. Combining biology with computing and/or mathematics will give you plenty of options in the future. Some papers you could do at first year to complement your interest in biology include MATH 120/170 and COSC 121/122.
About Endorsements for Science subjects
Should you require further help, please contact one of our undergraduate supervisors.
Undergraduate Supervisors
 |
Prof Bill Davison |
 |
Prof Matthew Turnbull |