Biological Sciences TAP (BioTAP)

This unique Talent Advanced Program (TAP) is designed for 48 first-year students who are admitted to UMass Amherst as biological science majors - invitation required.  

Invitation to the TAP is based on criteria set by the Biology department. Invitations are sent to students in late winter/early spring.

When you join this TAP you will...

  • Enroll in a special, small-enrollment first-year honors level biology course (Bio 190H) - available exclusively to BioTAP students. All BioTAP students will be in this class, regardless of acceptance to Commonwealth College.
  • Enroll in a one-credit seminar created specifically for this program.  The seminar is taught by experienced faculty members and will help students discover the invaluable resources and opportunities available at UMass Amherst.   
  • Share your living and learning experience with other high-achieving students in your major. 
  • Experience a variety of opportunities that will help you make a successful transition to the academic and social life at UMass.
  • Have the chance to work closely with faculty members through a variety of academic opportunities offered by the department. 
  • Explore academic and/or professional opportunities related to your interests and goals.
This program is a wonderful opportunity to get to know other motivated Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Pre-Med majors, make connections to faculty, and learn about the goals and opportunities available within biological sciences departments at the University!

In addition to the opportunities listed above, students in the BioTAP will have the advantage of upper class mentors who will live in the same corridor as TAP students to provide academic and personal support. These mentors work closely with the BioTAP faculty and provide programming exclusively for the BioTAP students.

If you were invited to this program, please be aware that you will not be in the program unless you follow the required steps to join!

Be sure to visit the How to Join page on this website to learn about the process and important timelines you must follow to become a member of this fantastic program!

 

Classes

Students will enroll in the following classes:

Fall 2009

  • TAP Seminar taught by faculty

  • Qualitative Biology of the Cell - Biology 190H - on the main campus

  • English Writing 112 or 112H - College Writing (unless exempt), taught in the residential area

Location

BioTAP students will live together in Dickinson Hall in the Orchard Hill area of campus. 

Pamela R. Marsh-Williams, Ph.D.
Assistant Provost & Dean

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UA&LC Units: Undergraduate Advising, Residential Academic Programs, Domestic Exchange Programs, Five College Interchange