系统生物学是数学，计算机科学和生物科学之间的快速发展的研究活动领域。生物学研究的许多现代领域（例如，生化，神经，行为和生态系统网络）都需要掌握先进的定量和计算技能。系统生物学理学学士学位课程旨在提供在这些领域开展工作所必需的定量和多学科的理解。该技能与传统的生物学本科课程产生的技能不同。因此，系统生物学BS计划包括一个专门的五门课程核心课程（不同于生物学BA和BS计划中使用的三门课程核心），以及计算机科学和高级数学的基础课程。
Systems biology is a rapidly emerging area of research activity at the interface of mathematics, computer science, and the biological sciences. Many modern areas of biology research (e.g., biochemical, neural, behavioral, and ecosystem networks) require the mastery of advanced quantitative and computational skills. The Systems Biology BS degree program is intended to provide the quantitative and multidisciplinary understanding that is necessary for work in these areas. This skill set is different from that produced by traditional undergraduate programs in biology. Consequently, the Systems Biology BS program adds two core courses (in modeling and analysis of biological systems) beyond the three core lecture courses in the Biology BA and Biology BS programs, as well as foundation courses from computer science and advanced mathematics. The traditional biology core laboratory courses are not required, but may be taken as electives. Undergraduate research is strongly recommended (as BIOL 388S and BIOL 390) but is not formally required.