Biological Sciences

The biological sciences major resides in the Department of Biology. Students earn a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences and are prepared for technical careers in research or commercial laboratories, or for professional schools or graduate study.

The biological sciences encompass many areas of study. Biologists study the structure and functions of living organisms from the individual cell to the full organism, and collectively to the community level. Discoveries in the biological sciences influence many aspects of our daily lives and have become the foundation of many new developments in biotechnology and medicine. In the past two decades, advances in molecular biology, cell biology and genetics have been rapid, opening many new, exciting career opportunities in biotechnology, genetic engineering and the development of new diagnostics and therapeutics. Biologists can pursue a variety of options including careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine or other health-related areas; in research or commercial laboratories at pharmaceutical companies, medical research laboratories, biotechnology companies or in government agencies; and in teaching. In fact, more than 100 different occupations have been listed for biologists. Graduates in the biological sciences are in demand and enjoy a high placement rate with competitive salaries.

The curricular choices are designed to provide a sound basis for careers in the private sector, government and research laboratories, and for advanced study in graduate and professional programs in medicine, other health related areas, or in teaching.

The course requirements identifies required support courses in chemistry, physics, mathematics, humanities, and social sciences. With proper selection of electives, students can meet teacher certification requirements or complete a minor in another field. Students are encouraged to consult frequently with their academic advisor for curriculum planning.

In addition to the core requirements, students select one of five concentrations in a field of interest:

• Cell/Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry
• Organismal Biology/Physiology
• Ecology/Evolution/Genomics
• Pathobiology
• General Biology

Program Options

Co-op employment is an option for biological science students. The major offers three distinct plans:

Five-year option with co-op experience
This option allows for the greatest amount of employment experience, with three distinct six-month periods of employment included with studies. After the start of the sophomore year, students study or work through all terms, including summer.

Four-year option with co-op experience
The degree includes just one six-month period of employment. After the start of sophomore year, students study or work through all terms, including summer.

Four-year option without co-op experience
The degree can be completed in four years without co-op/internship employment. Students are not required to pursue studies during any of the summer terms.

Opportunities

Students earn a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences and are prepared for technical careers in research or commercial laboratories or for professional schools.

Graduates typically work for pharmaceutical companies, university and medical research laboratories, biotechnology companies, or in government laboratories. Many graduates also choose to pursue an advanced degree in the medical, dental and veterinary disciplines; or Masters or PhD degrees in Biology-related fields and Public Health.

Co-op Opportunities

Past co-op employers of biosciences majors have included:

• GlaxoSmithKline
• Fox Chase Cancer Center
• Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
• Johnson and Johnson
• Merck
• Wistar Institute
• Moss Rehab
• ViroPharma, Inc.
• Janssen Biotech
• Integral Molecular

Visit the Drexel Steinbright Career Development Center page for more detailed information on co-op and post-graduate opportunities.