Prepare for Research, Fieldwork, Management or Grad School
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology
Our program is designed to open doors into the areas of research, technology, fieldwork and other science-related topics. Fields like pharmacy, agriculture, forestry, wildlife management, conservation and pest control all depend on biologists for basic scientific knowledge. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research and internships.
You’ll be ready to succeed in your scientific career or to advance to a master's program or to medical, dental, veterinary or pharmacy school.
We also offer a bachelor of science degree in human biology and a pre-physician assistant studies human biology major.
Required Courses in Your Major
General Cellular Biology Lecture/Lab
In this course, you will study of the basic principles of biology. Course topics will focus on cellular principles, metabolism, and genetics. The lab component will provide a hands-on investigation of topics discussed in the lecture.
Zoology Lecture/Lab
This course will provide you with an introduction to the morphological, behavioral, and ecological diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate animals. The lab component will provide a hands-on investigation of topics discussed in the lecture with special attention given to amphibian field research.
Botany Lecture/Lab
This course will provide you with an introductory study of plants, their classification, identification, structure and life cycle. The lab component will provide a hands-on investigation of topics discussed in the lecture and includes filed trips and projects.
Genetics Lecture/Lab
This course will provide an introduction to the basis of inheritance from molecular to organism level with emphasis on the role of genetics in evolution and adaptation to the environment, as well as considerable human application. The lab component will provide a study of basic genetic principles with the aid of a variety of organisms and online lab exercises.
Capstone Project
Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, you will design an independent project to be completed before graduation.
Scientific Communication
The scientific method is the foundation of each seminar. Different aspects of it will be highlighted in different seminars but all seminars will strive to develop a better understanding of the scientific method from initial question and hypothesis formation through to the presentation of results. Students will also begin to develop critical thinking skills by observing and evaluating presentations by their peers. Students will develop scientific writing skills by writing a final research report and presentation skills by presenting their research project in preparation for Scholars Day.
Choose Two of the Following Courses
Scientific Methods, Research Design or Scientific Literacy
Biology Electives
You will also take 21 credit hours of biology electives.
Requirements for Graduation from College of Saint Mary
To earn your bachelor of science degree in biology, you must complete 37 credit hours of general education, 41 credit hours of major courses, 37 credit hours of supporting field classes, and 11 credit hours of electives.
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Requirements for Admission to College of Saint Mary
- High school transcript with GPA and class rank (unofficial transcripts may be reviewed for admissions purposes, but official transcripts are required before you start classes)
- A minimum GPA of 2.0
- ACT score of 18 or higher or SAT score of 860 – 890 (verbal + math) or higher
- Personal interview (if applicable)
- Transcripts from any post high school institutions for transfer students (students who have earned 12 or more credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0 from other institutions qualify as transfers)
- $30 application fee
Academic Description
Prepare for Research, Fieldwork, Management or Grad School
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology
Our program is designed to open doors into the areas of research, technology, fieldwork and other science-related topics. Fields like pharmacy, agriculture, forestry, wildlife management, conservation and pest control all depend on biologists for basic scientific knowledge. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research and internships.
You’ll be ready to succeed in your scientific career or to advance to a master's program or to medical, dental, veterinary or pharmacy school.
We also offer a bachelor of science degree in human biology and a pre-physician assistant studies human biology major.
Accreditation
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Admissions Requirements
Requirements for Admission to College of Saint Mary
- High school transcript with GPA and class rank (unofficial transcripts may be reviewed for admissions purposes, but official transcripts are required before you start classes)
- A minimum GPA of 2.0
- ACT score of 18 or higher or SAT score of 860 – 890 (verbal + math) or higher
- Personal interview (if applicable)
- Transcripts from any post high school institutions for transfer students (students who have earned 12 or more credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0 from other institutions qualify as transfers)
- $30 application fee
Curriculum
Required Courses in Your Major
General Cellular Biology Lecture/Lab
In this course, you will study of the basic principles of biology. Course topics will focus on cellular principles, metabolism, and genetics. The lab component will provide a hands-on investigation of topics discussed in the lecture.
Zoology Lecture/Lab
This course will provide you with an introduction to the morphological, behavioral, and ecological diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate animals. The lab component will provide a hands-on investigation of topics discussed in the lecture with special attention given to amphibian field research.
Botany Lecture/Lab
This course will provide you with an introductory study of plants, their classification, identification, structure and life cycle. The lab component will provide a hands-on investigation of topics discussed in the lecture and includes filed trips and projects.
Genetics Lecture/Lab
This course will provide an introduction to the basis of inheritance from molecular to organism level with emphasis on the role of genetics in evolution and adaptation to the environment, as well as considerable human application. The lab component will provide a study of basic genetic principles with the aid of a variety of organisms and online lab exercises.
Capstone Project
Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, you will design an independent project to be completed before graduation.
Scientific Communication
The scientific method is the foundation of each seminar. Different aspects of it will be highlighted in different seminars but all seminars will strive to develop a better understanding of the scientific method from initial question and hypothesis formation through to the presentation of results. Students will also begin to develop critical thinking skills by observing and evaluating presentations by their peers. Students will develop scientific writing skills by writing a final research report and presentation skills by presenting their research project in preparation for Scholars Day.
Choose Two of the Following Courses
Scientific Methods, Research Design or Scientific Literacy
Biology Electives
You will also take 21 credit hours of biology electives.
Degree Requirements
Requirements for Graduation from College of Saint Mary
To earn your bachelor of science degree in biology, you must complete 37 credit hours of general education, 41 credit hours of major courses, 37 credit hours of supporting field classes, and 11 credit hours of electives.
