Prepare for Research, Fieldwork, Management
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, natural resources, environmental education, conservation, forensics, policy making, and bioregulation all depend on biologists for basic scientific knowledge. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research and internships.
You’ll be prepared to make a difference in your scientific career in industry or to advance to a master's program or to medical, dental, veterinary, physical therapy, physician assistant or pharmacy programs.
We also offer a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and a pre-physician assistant status.
Required Courses for your Biology 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.
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.
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 field trips and projects.
Capstone Project
Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, you will design an independent project to be completed before graduation.
Seminar
You must take at least one seminar course. Different aspects of the scientific method 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. You will begin to develop critical thinking skills by observing and evaluating presentations by your peers. You will also develop scientific writing skills by writing a final research report and presentation skills by presenting your research project in preparation for Scholars Day.
Biology Electives
You will also take 21 credit hours of biology electives.
Requirements to Earn Your College of Saint Mary Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology
To earn your bachelor of science degree in biology, you must complete 128 credit hours:
- 37 credit hours of general education
- 41 credit hours of major courses
- 37 credit hours of supporting field classes
- 13 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.
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements for College of Saint Mary
-
Submit your application
-
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 transfer students.
Test-Optional Admissions
CSM accepts undergraduate students with or without test scores (ACT/SAT). Below are a few key details to consider:
- Choosing not to submit test scores will not result in any penalties during the admission or merit scholarship evaluation process.
- If you decide to submit scores after being admitted, we will assess your eligibility for a potential increase in merit scholarship (scores must be submitted by March 31). No merit scholarship will be revoked due to test scores submitted after admission.
Academic Description
Prepare for Research, Fieldwork, Management
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, natural resources, environmental education, conservation, forensics, policy making, and bioregulation all depend on biologists for basic scientific knowledge. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research and internships.
You’ll be prepared to make a difference in your scientific career in industry or to advance to a master's program or to medical, dental, veterinary, physical therapy, physician assistant or pharmacy programs.
We also offer a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and a pre-physician assistant status.
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.
Admissions Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements for College of Saint Mary
-
Submit your application
-
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 transfer students.
Test-Optional Admissions
CSM accepts undergraduate students with or without test scores (ACT/SAT). Below are a few key details to consider:
- Choosing not to submit test scores will not result in any penalties during the admission or merit scholarship evaluation process.
- If you decide to submit scores after being admitted, we will assess your eligibility for a potential increase in merit scholarship (scores must be submitted by March 31). No merit scholarship will be revoked due to test scores submitted after admission.
Curriculum
Required Courses for your Biology 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.
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.
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 field trips and projects.
Capstone Project
Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, you will design an independent project to be completed before graduation.
Seminar
You must take at least one seminar course. Different aspects of the scientific method 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. You will begin to develop critical thinking skills by observing and evaluating presentations by your peers. You will also develop scientific writing skills by writing a final research report and presentation skills by presenting your research project in preparation for Scholars Day.
Biology Electives
You will also take 21 credit hours of biology electives.
Degree Requirements
Requirements to Earn Your College of Saint Mary Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology
To earn your bachelor of science degree in biology, you must complete 128 credit hours:
- 37 credit hours of general education
- 41 credit hours of major courses
- 37 credit hours of supporting field classes
- 13 credit hours of electives
