<p>I'm strongly considering registering for a 2+2 program at Monroe Community College after I graduate HS. For those that are unfamiliar: I would take core classes at MCC for two years, and then I would transfer to a traditional 4-year
institution. </p>
<p>I'm considering either SUNY-ESF or University of Rochester. The problem is, Rochester would award me a B.A. Would this adversely affect my acceptance to a good grad program? I've read that grad schools generally "look down" on B.A. degrees(specifically for science). </p>
<p>I'm not sure if Rochester's higher status would override the B.A. </p>
<p>Many places only offer the BA degree, although lots of their graduates get into to grad schools. The grad schools will care about what courses you took, to what depth you pursued your studies, your research experience, recommendations, and grades. These could be great with a BA if the college provided the appropriate opportunities, and you took advantage of them.</p>
<p>That’s an important point made by Afan. In fact, you don’t even need to major in Biology. Just make sure you get stellar grades in your Biology ‘foundation courses;’ Biology I&II, Organic Chemistry, Genetics and Ecology. And don’t forget Calculus I. That’s what graduate programs look for on your undergraduate transcript.</p>
<p>I agree with afan and Lake Washington. But by the same token, don’t base your decision on “higher status” either, select the school that seems the best fit for you, since both institutions can prepare you well for graduate school. One of my son’s best friends attends ESF. If you are strongly interested in/involved with environmental issues the school might be a unique opportunity for you. If not then definitely consider Rochester first.</p>
<p>University of Rochester offers the following degrees:
If you know you want to major in a specific field of biology, you can get a BS degree (which only makes sense; the BA is the more general degree in the more general field).</p>
<p>Although BS vs BA does not matter for grad school admission, where you go to college can make a big difference. </p>
<p>I don’t know enough about the programs at the places you are considering to have an opinion, but it is important that any college you attend offers you a rigorous science education, and a chance to participate in research as an undergrad. </p>
<p>If the college do not send that many (absolute number, not percent) students to graduate school in your intended field, this can be a problem. </p>
<p>It may not be that simple to get information. The best source about these issues would be faculty in the biology department. You might look up the advisors or head of the undergrad program and contact them. Although you are not a student there yet, the faculty would probably give you some idea about the research opportunities and the flow of students from their departments to graduate school. </p>
<p>Have you firmly decided on these two places, or are there other colleges on your list?</p>