Do Life Sciences students need to handle living organisms in laboratory classes?
Yes. Depending on the course or major, Life Sciences laboratory classes may involve microorganisms, plants, cultured cells, or animals. However, not every class uses living organisms directly; some focus on observation, analysis, or computer-based work. The organisms used, frequency of handling, and safety or ethical procedures vary by university and course, so check the official course information for the institution you are considering.
Key points
- The organisms involved depend on the purpose of the class and may include microorganisms, plants, cultured cells, or animals.
- Some laboratory classes do not involve directly handling living organisms and instead focus on sample analysis or computer-based work.
- Handling biological materials is subject to course-specific safety procedures and ethical rules.
Things to check
- The organisms used, how often they are handled, and the required procedures vary by university, faculty, and course.