Introductory Biology Course Sequences
Most biological science majors require an introductory biology course sequence. There are three different introductory
biology sequences offered at UW-Madison: Biocore; Botany/Zoology 151 and 152; and Zoology 101/102 and Botany 130.
Each series has numerous key features and intended audiences associated with its curriculum. Some majors on campus
may have a preferred series and it would be best to speak with an advisor from that major if you questions concerning a
particular major.
A Note about AP Biology: For students entering UW-Madison in the Summer 2013 onward. If a student received a 4 or 5
on the AP Biology exam, credit will be awarded for Zoology 151. This AP credit does not preclude taking the Biocore course
sequence.
A Note about Transfer Credit: Students transferring to UW-Madison with biology coursework, may receive Biosci X12 or
X15 credit for their coursework. Students planning on majoring in a biological discipline should consult with an advisor in
their intended major or the SOAR Transfer Biology Consult prior to enrolling in an introductory biology course.
Zoology/Biology 101 & 102, Botany/Biology 130
Course websites
101: http://www.zoology.wisc.edu/courses/101/101.pdf
102: http://www.zoology.wisc.edu/courses/102/102.pdf
130: http://botit.botany.wisc.edu/botany_130/
Total Credits: 10 credits (101 is 3 credits; 102 is 2 credits; 130 is 5 credits)
Enrollment: 800-900 students per semester in 101; 600-700 students per semester in 102; 190-200 per semester in 130;
101, Animal Biology, is offered both fall and spring semesters and during the summer session. It is open to first-year
students. 130 is offered during both fall and spring semesters. Greater emphasis is placed on ecology and taxonomy in the
fall.
Intended Audience: Zoology 101 is a large introductory zoology course that addresses an audience of beginning students
with a wide range of backgrounds and interests. Topics covered include: cell structure and organization; genetics; molecular
biology; development; the chemistry of biology; the structure and function of physiological systems; evolution behavior and
ecology; contemporary issues. A 2-credit lab (Zoology 102) supplements and enhances the topical considerations of
Zoology 101. The lab is required by many programs and departments and is generally take concurrently with the lecture by
about 45% of the students (Spring 2013 data on enrollment).
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Botany 130 is a one-semester course focusing on organisms studied by botanists, including bacteria fungi, algae, and
plants. Topics include cell and molecular biology, metabolism, plant structure-function, genetics, evolution and ecology. It is
especially appropriate for plant science majors. The course includes two two-hour labs per week, which focus on direct
observation and manipulation of biological materials.
Key Features:
• 101/102 offer one-semester course in Animal Biology for both biological sciences majors and non-majors
looking for biological science breadth course.
• Optional discussion sections available in 101.
• 102 Laboratories introduce students to the diversity of organisms on earth, key features of mammalian
physiology and some of the thought processes of science in several open-ended investigative labs.
Several dissections are done in lab with a lab partner.
• 130 offers a one semester course for majors in plant sciences and for students seeking a biological
sciences breadth course.
• In 130, lecture, discussion and lab are integrated and provide students with a broad overview of plant
structure and function as well as plant diversity and ecology
• Many advisors consider this sequence to be an excellent introduction for students who know they are
interested in studying plants. Also popular for students in majors who just need animal biology
(Kinesiology, Psychology, Zoology).
Botany/Zoology/Biology 151 & 152
Course website: http://www.zoology.wisc.edu/courses/151-152/index.html
Total Credits: 10 credits
Enrollment: 1000-1200 students per semester in 151-152 combined. The sequence can be started in the fall or spring
semester. It is open to first-year students but has limited enrollment. Completion of Math 112 and Chem 103 or 109
recommended, but not required, prior to enrollment
Intended Audience: Introductory Biology 151-152 is a two-semester integrated introductory biology sequence and is
recommended for many majors in the biological science. The sequence exposes students to basic biological concepts and
phenomena and prepares students for upper level courses in biological science and scientific thought.
Key Features:
o Two-semester sequence for bioscience majors across campus.
o Discussion sections emphasize understanding and working with the major biological concepts presented
in lecture using cooperative and small group learning techniques
o Laboratory sections introduce students to the thought processes of science using open-ended
investigative labs
o In 152 labs, students conduct an independent project electing to do either mentored research or a metaanalysis of an open question in the literature. Students without 151 from campus (either from AP or
transfer) should visit http://www.zoology.wisc.edu/courses/151-152/ip/faq.pdf
o 152 labs, in particular the independent projects, are writing intensive and provide Comm B credit.
o Peer learning sessions are available to 151/153 and 152 students
o Many advisors who recommend this sequence instead of 101,102,130 say this two-semester sequence is
more comprehensive than the of two one-semester course combo.
151 Topics (Effective Fall 2013): cell structure and function, cellular metabolism (enzymes, respiration, photosynthesis),
information flow (DNA, RNA, protein), principles of genetics and selected topics in Animal Physiology
152 Topics (Effective Spring 2014): selected topics in plant physiology, a survey of the five major kingdoms of organisms,
speciation and evolutionary theory, and ecology at multiple levels of the biological hierarchy.
Biology Core Curriculum (Biocore)
Program website: http://www.biocore.wisc.edu/
Total Credits: 18 (Honors) credits
Enrollment/Application: ~120-140 students in each cohort (two cohorts in progress concurrently during academic
year). Most students start Biocore in the fall of their sophomore year after completing the prerequisites in general chemistry
(Chem 104 or 109) and calculus (Math 211 or 221) their freshman year. Students must apply to the program early in the
spring semester prior to the semester they intend to begin Biocore. Freshmen planning to begin Biocore their sophomore
year apply starting in January of their freshman year. Applications are available online at biocore.wisc.edu
Intended Audience: Students seeking honors introductory biology coursework at the intermediate to advanced level. Foursemester lecture and laboratory sequence beginning in sophomore year. Broad, in-depth, integrated biology coursework
intended for any biological science major. Students do not need to be part of an honors program in order to apply.
Application based, with prerequisite requirements of general chemistry and one semester of calculus (or equivalent).
Key Features:
• Introductory to intermediate level courses that students progress through together as a cohort concluding
with capstone course
• Heavy emphasis on process of science with research focused lab and lecture curriculum
• Inquiry-based, writing intensive labs
• Small, supportive learning community
• Extended learning opportunities beyond courses including Biocore peer mentoring, Biocore Outreach
Ambassadors, and directed study in Biocore Prairie or Cell Biology/Physiology Lab