The Department of Biology offers two degree programs: the bachelor of science and the bachelor of arts in biology. These two programs are structured to meet the foundational needs of all students who are interested in a career in the broad area of the life sciences. The two programs are similar during the first two years. They differ primarily in their language requirements and in their Biology requirements. A pre-medical track is available in either degree program. Please consult with your academic advisor about track options.
The undergraduate programs in biology provide excellent preparation for students planning to apply to graduate programs in the biological sciences or to professional schools and programs including medical, osteopathic, dental, physical or occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, physician assistant, and chiropractic. A degree in biology prepares students for a wide range of careers in the biological sciences including medicine, biotechnology, genetics, forensics, ecology, environmental biology, and other biologically-related technical fields in government and private industry. With appropriate electives, a student with a degree in biology may also choose to enter the fields of law, journalism, education, business, health care administration, pharmaceutical sales, or work for a variety of federal agencies.
After completing an initial four-semester core sequence in the biological sciences, students in the biology B.A. program may choose to specialize in courses from four major areas of biology: cellular and molecular biology, organismal biology, ecology and evolution, or integrative biology. Those students pursuing the B.S. degree in biology are required to take at least one course from each of the major areas of biology to ensure an advanced, broad-based knowledge of biology.
Regardless of the degree program chosen, students will experience a wide variety of classroom environments from large lecture sections to small group discussions and intensive laboratory-oriented courses. Laboratory courses include topics such as comparative anatomy, molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology, plant ecology, and plant physiology as well as many other laboratory experiences across the biological disciplines.
Students who earn a degree in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences must complete the University requirements, the College requirements for their specific degree program, and their major requirements.
Minors
All students have the possibility of earning one or more minors; follow link for a list of all available minors and their requirements. Please note that students may not earn a minor in their major field.