Bachelor of Science in Biology

Studying life can positively change yours

The study of living things has room for dozens, if not hundreds, of specializations! The Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program prepares students for a career in healthcare, scientific industries, and academics right after graduation. Or the bachelor’s is a solid foundation for those on a track toward graduate school.

The BS in Biology produces scientists and citizens who understand the scope and perspective of modern biology. Marian alumni are consistently recognized for their leadership and cognitive ability. Through lecture, laboratory, and field work, students gain valuable experience that emphasizes real-world research and analysis. Students benefit from research courses, and work with faculty members to produce original work that prepares them for post-graduation success.

Become the scientist that shapes modern biology. Talk to an admission counselor today!

Learn About Biology in the Ridenour Science Center

Biology students have the pleasure of taking courses, conducting research, collaborating with other students, and interacting with faculty experts in our state-of-the-art facility. The Dr. Richard and Leslie Ridenour Science Center provides an engaging environment to learn the skills most important for a career in biology.

  • Nine teaching labs
  • Three research labs
  • Three prep rooms
  • One computer lab
  • Seven classrooms
  • 18 offices
  • Two student collaboration areas

Biology – An Important Part of Other Degree Programs

The study of biology is a base for many other academic programs, such as nursing, pre-professional, and teaching. Some nursing students choose to minor in biology. Middle-secondary education students may select biology as their content area for a double major in order to teach biology to students in grades 5-12.

Students desiring “pre-professional education” to become a dentist, doctor, optometrist, pharmacist, physical therapist, or veterinarian, are advised to pursue a biology major with a chemistry minor, or a chemistry major with a biology minor.

The Biology Department supports additional options for students.

Get in on the Action

We believe the best way to learn is through practice. Biology students have the chance to…

  • Dissect a human cadaver and go beyond textbooks to gain valuable knowledge of human anatomy and physiology
  • Conduct independent research to contribute to the field
  • Develop a resume that will help ensure job placement and acceptance into quality graduate and professional programs
  • Take part in internships

Prepare for Work or Graduate School

As a biology graduate, you are setting yourself up for a solid career.

Join the workforce immediately after graduation:

  • High School Biology Teacher
  • Environmental Conservationist
  • Biological Technician
  • Researcher
  • Forensic Scientist

Continue with graduate studies to train for these careers:

  • Doctor
  • Dentist
  • Professor
  • Pharmacist
  • Veterinarian

Learn More About the Biology Program

Go beyond textbooks as a biology student at Marian. As a future biologist, you will learn the skills needed to collect, interpret, and analyze data. Through classroom, lecture, and field work, experience firsthand what it’s like to be a biologist. You will be conducting research within the Science Center on campus or outside in fieldwork and internships. You may even work with faculty to produce original research. Career options are broad for biologists as you may choose to teach, work in veterinary science, conduct research, or go on to graduate school.

Bachelor of Science in Biology Curriculum

The Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program curriculum aims to help students find truths from the natural world that can enhance the way we live. Students benefit from our small, dynamic lectures, which give students theoretical knowledge through extensive laboratory, research, and field work. Those in the BS in Biology program work closely with experienced and respected faculty, who are recognized leaders in the field and believe in a true mentoring relationship with their students.

Academic Catalog
FACULTY DIRECTORY

General Education Courses

As a bachelor’s level student, you are required to take about 30 credits of general education courses as part of the 120 credits required for a bachelor’s degree.  General education courses are required regardless of your major.

All students take 10.5 to 17 credits in these areas:

  • Mathematical Reasoning
  • Argumentative and Research Writing
  • Introduction to Christian Theology
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Introduction to Ethical Reasoning
  • First Year Studies

Core Courses

Biology majors will take courses covering topics such as:

  • Biological Principles
  • Cell Biology
  • Microbiology
  • Chemistry
  • Ecology
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Zoology

Learning Outcomes

The Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program is designed to appeal to students with a variety of career interests in biology. Through effective teaching, advising and scholarly activity, the Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program prepares students to engage in scientific inquiry and pursue a career in our scientific and technological society.

In addition, the Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program connects with other academic programs, including Nursing and Education. Pre-nursing majors learn fundamentals of science, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology that they will build into clinical skills as they transition into their professional studies. Secondary Education majors may select Biology as their content area for a double major (Secondary Ed/Biology) and take a prescribed curriculum in biology for teaching certification through the Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program.

Graduates of the Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program find a world of opportunities waiting for them. For many, their path is graduate school, so during their time in the Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program they couple their biology major with another major or minor in the sciences, or engage in a pre-professional curriculum. Whether graduate school is in your future or not, the BS in Biology program offers outstanding theoretical and practical preparation for careers in medicine, veterinary medicine, optometry, allied health, research, environmental conservation and teaching – many of which are expected to see exceptional job growth.

A key benefit to studying biology through the Marian University Bachelor of Science in Biology program is the true liberal arts core we provide in our academic setting. At Marian, you’ll immerse yourself in the theory and practical application of biological principles, while at the same time enhancing your education with exploration of the arts, humanities and social sciences. You’ll see how these areas of inquiry interconnect in the real world. And you’ll see how they’re also impacted by things like social justice and service to a greater cause, which are pursuits that have always been a part of Marian’s founding mission.

Biology majors must achieve an average GPA of 2.50 in their biology coursework before graduation. Transfer students must complete one-half of their major and one-third of their minor credits at Marian University.