Majoring in BPMI

The Biological/Pre-Medical Illustration Program

The Bachelor of Arts in Biological and Pre-Medical Illustration is a four-year degree that prepares students for careers in biological illustration or graduate education in medical illustration. BPMI majors do not need to complete the Core Design Program in the College of Design.

Students attending Iowa State University to study BPMI enroll as pre-BPMI majors through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS). Students must apply for admission as full members of the BPMI program, typically in their second year of study. The application includes submission of a portfolio, an essay, and a degree audit; applications are reviewed once each semester by the Advisory Committee.

Earning the B.A. Degree

To earn the Bachelor of Arts degree offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, students must complete the general education requirements in LAS and take at least 42 credits in design and 32 credits in the biological sciences.

→ Degree Requirements

Design courses include: Dsn S 131 and Art 230, ArtIS 233, 308, and 330, BPM I 323, 326, 327, 337, and 497 plus 12 credits chosen from a list of approved upper level courses in art and design.

Biological science courses include: LAS 101, Biol 211, 211L, 212, 212L, 255, 256, 351; Biol 355 or 366 or 454; and at least 9 credits chosen from a list of approved biological science courses.

Students must earn a grade of C- or better in all art and science courses included in the major and must earn an overall GPA of 2.00 in both categories. A brochure is available in 102 Catt Hall that gives a detailed listing of the requirements.

Communication Proficiency Requirement. Students must earn a minimum of C in both English 150 and 250 and in one advanced writing course numbered Engl 302 through 316.

Students in Biological/Pre-Medical Illustration must complete a senior project or an internship experience in which they design and produce artwork that is suitable for publication or public display.

A minor in biological illustration is offered. A minimum of 17 credits must be taken, including 8 credits in biological science courses and 9 credits in art and design courses. The biological sciences must include Biol 211, 211L, 212, 212L. The art and design courses must include BPM I 323 and 337, and an advanced drawing or painting course. For more information, contact the Biological/Pre-Medical Illustration advisor in 102 Catt Hall.