The foundation disciplines for BCB are genetics, molecular biology, mathematics, computer science, statistics and physics. Students entering the BCB program are expected to have a strong undergraduate background in at least one of these disciplines and additional coursework in another.
The following table summarizes the three areas in which BCB majors must demonstrate basic competence.
Students are strongly encouraged to take courses equivalent to the ISU courses listed below prior to enrollment in the BCB program. Where such preparatory coursework has not been taken, students will have the opportunity to take these courses during their first year of BCB graduate training to prepare for BCB core courses.
The temporary advisor or major professor helps each student determine whether additional courses are needed. The student's POS committee will evaluate competence in the three background areas during the student's first POS Committee meeting.
Background Courses for Admission to BCB and as preparation for BCB Core courses
Courses (or equiv.) that should be taken prior to enrollment or during first year unless similar coursework was completed prior to joining the BCB Program
Category I - Mathematics and Statistics
- Math 2650 - Calculus III
- STAT 3410 - Introduction to the Theory of Probability and Statistics I
- STAT 3420 - Introduction to the Theory of Probability and Statistics II
- STAT 5870 - Statistical Methods for Research Workers
- STAT 5880 - Statistical Theory for Research Workers
- STAT 4830/5830 - Empirical Methods for the Computational Sciences
Category II - Biological Sciences
- Biol 3130 - Principles of Genetics
- Biol 3140 - Principles of Molecular Cell Biology
- Biol 3150 - Biological Evolution
- BBMB 4040 - Biochemistry I
- BBMB 4050 - Biochemistry II
Category III - Computer Science
- COM S 2270 - Introduction to Object-oriented Programming
- COM S 2280 - Introduction to Data Structures
- COM S 2300 - Discrete Computational Structures
- COM S 3110 - Introduction to the Design and Analysis of Algorithms
updated 11/10/2023