Mathematics: Biological Mathematics, BA

At the core of modern theoretical science, mathematics has historically provided an expressive language and a theoretical framework for advances in the physical sciences. It has since become central in the life and social sciences and in computer science. Mathematics at Penn embraces traditional core areas of mathematics and developing areas (Penn is one of the world's leading centers in the application of logic to theoretical computer science). The goals of the major program are to assist students in acquiring both an understanding of mathematics and the ability to use it. The mathematics major provides a solid foundation for graduate study in mathematics and a background for study in economics, the biological sciences, the physical sciences, and engineering, as well as many non-traditional areas.

The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.

Majors and prospective majors: Please email majoradvisor@math.upenn.edu. You will be assigned to one of the Math Major Advisors who will discuss your current and future plans with you. It is important that you see this advisor at least once per semester thereafter.

Below is a planning tool that is meant to help you but does not replace the web and advisor visit requirements.

For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.

College General Education Requirements and Free Electives
Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives17.5-18.5
Major Requirements
Mathematics Requirement
Calculus Requirement:
MATH 1400Calculus, Part I1
MATH 1410Calculus, Part II 21
or MATH 1610 Honors Calculus
MATH 2400Calculus, Part III1
or MATH 2600 Honors Calculus, Part II
MATH 3610Advanced Calculus1
or MATH 5090 Advanced Analysis
MATH 3600Advanced Calculus1
or MATH 5080 Advanced Analysis
Algebra Requirement:
MATH 3700Algebra1
or MATH 5020 Abstract Algebra
MATH 3710Algebra1
or MATH 5030 Abstract Algebra
Statistics Requirement:
MATH 3200Computer Methods in Mathematical Science I1
STAT 4310Statistical Inference1
Upper Level Math Course:
Select one of the following:1
Calculus, Part IV
Ordinary Differential Equations
Partial Differential Equations
Topics in Modern Math (only if Life Science related)
Other
Biology Requirement
Select one of the following Tracks:8.5
Track 1:
Introduction to Biology - The Molecular Biology of Life
Introductory Organismal Biology Lab
Select two of the following:
Molecular Biology and Genetics
Evolutionary Biology
Ecology: From individuals to ecosystems
Select three of the following:
Advanced Evolution
Theoretical Population Biology
Genome Science and Genomic Medicine
Introduction to Computational Biology & Biological Modeling
Fundamentals of Computational Biology
Select one of the following additional science courses:
Introduction to General Chemistry I
and General Chemistry Laboratory I
Introduction to General Chemistry I
and General Chemistry Laboratory II
Principles of Physics II: Electromagnetism and Radiation
Track 2:
Introduction to Biology A
Introduction to Biology B
Select two of the following:
Molecular Biology and Genetics
Evolutionary Biology
Ecology: From individuals to ecosystems
Select two of the following:
Advanced Evolution
Genome Science and Genomic Medicine
The RNA World: A functional and computational analysis
Select one of the following additional science courses:
Introduction to General Chemistry I
and General Chemistry Laboratory I
Introduction to General Chemistry I
and General Chemistry Laboratory II
Principles of Physics II: Electromagnetism and Radiation
Total Course Units36-37
1

You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.

2

MATH 1610 Honors Calculus is a Honors Course.


The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.