Biology
Biology
About
Biology
Degree: BS, BA
Campus: Columbus, Lima, Marion
College: Arts and Sciences
Biologists study the processes fundamental to all forms of life. Biology strives to answer questions such as: How do biochemical processes control a cell’s behavior? How do organisms grow and reproduce? How do pollutants threaten certain life forms? How can human life be sustained and lengthened by medical advances?
The biology major exposes students to a broad base of biological knowledge, provides depth of experience in advanced topics and develops competence in scientific disciplines that are supportive of the life sciences (mathematics, physics and chemistry). The biology major is a stepping stone from which students may go into research, various health professions, teaching, business, or service in government or independent agencies.
Get started
Upon admission to the university, students can declare a major in biology within the College of Arts and Sciences.
Curriculum
The biology major consists of a minimum of 32 semester hours of biological sciences courses at the 2000 level or above. Three courses must be laboratory courses or must include a laboratory component.
Course work for the biology major comprises the following three components, chosen in consultation with a biology advisor to meet the individual student’s interests and needs.
- core requirement: Biology 3401: Integrated Biology
- specialization options: education in the life sciences, forensic biology, pre-health professions
- electives in the major
A full description of the biology major is available from the Center for Life Sciences Education at clse.osu.edu.
Not included in the biology major, but required by it, are courses that provide a basic understanding of the sciences upon which biological sciences are built. All biology majors (BS degree) complete mathematics through calculus, one semester of statistics for life sciences, and one year each of general chemistry, organic chemistry with laboratory, general physics and general biology. A BA degree in biology is also available, requiring fewer basic science and mathematics courses.
These basic math and science requirements of the biology major correspond to the requirements of pre-medicine, pre-optometry, pre-dentistry and pre-veterinary medicine. Biology majors are among the most broadly educated science students, preparing them for diverse science-related careers.
Biology students may take courses at Stone Laboratory, the university’s “Island Campus.†Located on Gibraltar Island in Put-in-Bay on Lake Erie, this freshwater biological field station and research laboratory offers introductory and upper-level courses suitable for undergraduate students in biological sciences.
Study abroad
A variety of study abroad opportunities covering the applications of life sciences are available around the globe, including in Africa, Antarctica, Central America, England, France and Norway.
Honors and Scholars
The Honors Program in the College of Arts and Sciences provides high-ability students opportunities to construct an enhanced curriculum that includes Honors courses and upper-division courses to meet general requirements, rigorous sequences, Honors seminars and a significant research experience.
Scholars programs feature residential communities for talented students who share academic interests and career goals. For example, two Scholars programs of interest to biology majors are the Biological Sciences Scholars Program, which emphasizes research, individualized advising, and significant lab and field experience; and the Health Sciences Scholars Program, which prepares students for careers in health sciences and health care.
Research
Because no other learning experience can match the value of a hands-on research project, students in the biology major are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research opportunities. Such opportunities allow students to develop their scientific curiosity and to discover whether a career in research is a good fit.
Biology students may choose to work with a faculty member in the biological sciences or they may work in labs in other departments and colleges. Learn more at ugresearch.osu.edu.
Student organizations
Several departmental undergraduate student clubs and an honorary student organization enhance learning opportunities and the quality of the undergraduate experience for students in the biological sciences. These clubs provide opportunities for undergraduate students to interact with faculty, to discuss careers and research areas with scientists from the Ohio State campus and beyond, and to participate in service activities.
Possible careers
Biology students interested in careers as research scientists or college professors must first obtain a PhD. In the private sector, a master’s degree may be sufficient for a research or product-development position. Some biology majors, particularly those with research experience, find research assistant positions directly after obtaining their bachelor’s degrees.
Many biology students go on to careers in medicine or some other health profession. While a major in the biological sciences is not a requirement for medical school (or other professional schools in the health sciences), it has many advantages with its exposure to the basic principles of life’s processes and the theoretical underpinnings of sophisticated medical procedures.
Some students move into other science careers such as education (K–12), business (e.g., pharmaceutical sales), or jobs in nature centers, parks and recreation, or government.
Salary estimates
Salaries are commensurate with level of education and prior job experiences. Salaries in general are dependent upon a variety of economic factors and change with market trends.
Program objectives
Graduates of the biology program will be prepared to:
- explain major biological concepts and discuss how these are connected with various areas of the biological and physical sciences;
- apply concepts from mathematics and other science disciplines for the analysis of processes in living organisms;
- demonstrate problem solving, analytical and communication skills that will provide the foundation for lifelong learning and career development;
- value biology as an integral part of society and everyday life.
Requirements
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Fee Information
How to Apply
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
Biology
The Ohio State University
United States of America, Columbus