Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology

With a B.S. degree in Biology, you'll have a range of careers from which to choose after graduation. As an undergrad pursing a B.S., you have the opportunity to refine your plan of study by selecting elective courses from several STEM disciplines, including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, or Public Health courses related to your specific career interests. 

What will you study?

To earn a B.S. in Biology at Marian, you will complete general education courses, biology core courses, and elective courses necessary to build foundational intellectual and knowledge acquisition skills.   

Degree requirements include 60 credits in science and mathematics, including the Biology Core. A minimum of 22 credits must come from Biology courses at the 300-level or above, and students may apply up to three credits of internship or research coursework to that total. An additional 9 credits may come from interdisciplinary science or mathematics coursework.  

Sample four-year plan and checklist

Why choose a B.S. in biology at Marian?

The field of biology is very interdisciplinary. Modern biologists study the human genome, climate change, human and agricultural diseases, global food supply, and conservation of natural resources, to name a few. 

In general, biologists draw on their expertise in mathematics and the physical sciences to increase knowledge and solve problems in specific fields of biology. At Marian, we offer many electives, allowing students to tailor their degree to the emphasize the discipline of their interest, including 

• Cellular and molecular biology
• Ecology
• Environmental science
• Genetics
• Physiology

Regardless of the biology discipline you pursue, your courses will be challenging. However, you won’t be alone. Our biology exceptional faculty will work to guide, encourage, and support you. When you graduate, you’ll have accomplished more than you ever thought possible. 

What are your career paths?

Regardless of whether you want a science-intensive or a technical career, upon graduation you'll be prepared for a huge number of job options in fields like healthcare, environmental science, research and development, or education. If working in one of these fields is your career goal, earning a B.S. in biology will help you get there.   

Many students pursuing a B.S. in Biology will 1) enter a graduate programs, earning an M.S. or a Ph.D., 2) enter a professional program, including medical school or other health professional programs, or 3) enter directly into a laboratory or research position.  

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks a number of professions that have their roots in biology.