Minor in Biology

Earning a minor in biology is a great way to explore your interests, gain knowledge, and graduate on time without the academic load required for a double-major.

It will broaden your knowledge and learning experiences in the sciences. It’s also a good marketing tool that helps you stand out from other candidates in a competitive job market.

Why choose a minor in biology at Marian?

Earning a minor in biology can serve as a useful counterbalance to your major area of study.

Having science knowledge is helpful if you want to work for scientific, technology, healthcare, medical, or environmental companies. It is also helpful if you want to teach science, biology, health, or other subjects in K-6 school settings.

Pairing a minor in biology with a major in business, communication, marketing, psychology, political science, public health, or sociology has the potential to make you a more attractive candidate for life science, government, social services, and other positions.

It can also be useful when applying for graduate or professional programs.

As a biology minor, you will:

• Select courses most applicable to your career goals.
• Learn biological theories, concepts, and terminology for accurate scientific communication.
• Get meaningful, hands-on experienced based on the scientific method and best practices.
• Develop transferable skills needed for success in today’s workplace.

Upon completion, you’ll better understand biological issues that impact society, like the genetic connection to health problems or how climate change and pollution impact humans.

What will you study?

To earn a minor in biology at Marian, you’ll complete at least 20 credits in biology coursework at or above BIO 202.

Your academic advisor will help you select the courses that best fit your academic and career goals, but you may consider choosing from courses like: 

• Evolution and ecology
• Genetics
• Cell biology
• Experimental design and statistical analysis
• Medical terminology
• Microbiology
• Human physiology
• Kinesiology
• Epidemiology
• Immunology
• Geographic information systems
• Marine biology
• Conservation biology and environmental law
• Restoration ecology
• Animal behavior
• Plant biology
• Zoology

A maximum of three combined credits from BIO 360, 361, 362, 398, 460, or 498 may apply toward the 20 total credits required to fulfill the minor.

What are your career paths?

Depending on your major and career goals, with a minor in biology you might work in non-scientific roles for companies and organizations related to:

• Environmental management, remediation, and preservation
• Organic agriculture and food production
• Life science, medicine, and nutrition
• Healthcare products, including pharmaceuticals and medical equipment
• Law, public policy, or government relations
• Publishing, media, and communications