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Biology Major: General Biology Track
Explore the vast world of biology and discover the route to diverse careers.
Within our biology major, our general biology track opens doors to diverse career opportunities spanning healthcare, research, education, environmental science, biotechnology, and various specialties. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue graduate studies and can explore various career avenues within the biological sciences. Those who opt for this comprehensive concentration have ventured into professions such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, education, research and business — in other words, everything!
Choosing our general biology track means studying a broad range of biological subjects without focusing on a specific specialization. This choice offers flexibility in shaping your career path, ensuring you receive a well-rounded education in biology. This track is ideal if you’re undecided or not yet ready to commit to a particular subfield.
A crucial component of the general biology major is laboratory work, providing invaluable hands-on experience in experimental techniques, data collection, and analysis. You’ll work alongside our committed and supportive faculty in state-of-the-art labs as you explore modern and relevant techniques for research projects. Our professors are ready to help you understand the role of biology in today’s world — so you can make a positive difference in it.
At Saint Mary’s, our motto is Virtus et Scientia, a Latin phrase meaning Virtue and Knowledge. Here, the two go hand in hand. Our students leave with a keen mind fortified by a strong character. Together, they are a touchstone in a complex, ever-evolving world.
If you’re eager to pursue knowledge, examine the living things around you, and gain a deeper understanding of your life’s purpose, you’ll uncover many insights here at Saint Mary’s. We invite you to explore more than biology with us — come discover who you are, and who you’re meant to be.
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Program Highlights
- Unlike many colleges and universities that employ graduate or teaching assistants, you can expect individualized support and one-on-one guidance directly from our dedicated professors. Our professors can help guide you as you uncover the myriad of possibilities within the field of biology and align them with your interests. That’s the Saint Mary’s difference.
- This STEM program, recognized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Graduates are in high demand, excelling in the latest technologies and innovating solutions for real-world problems. International students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT).P
- Pursue a minor in Spanish, psychology, or chemistry to broaden your skill set.
- Explore new places, cultures, and languages by studying abroad with one of our programs to enrich your liberal arts education. Spend a fall semester studying at the UK’s largest and leading Catholic university, or celebrate the art and historical treasures of the Veneto region in the small Italian town of Padernao del Grappa.
What You'll Learn
- Fundamental understanding of cellular and molecular biology
- Basic knowledge of both general and organic chemistry
- Effectively communicate and convey scientific concepts through both written and oral presentations
- Adept scientific inquiry and critical thinking skills, facilitating informed analysis and decision-making
- Exemplify ethical leadership and acquire skills needed to effectively collaborate with diverse teams
Admissions
Your journey towards a brighter future starts here. Whether you’re a high school graduate starting your college search — or a transfer student eager to find the perfect fit — Saint Mary’s is committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Course Catalog
Careers that look to the future.
Career opportunities are as diverse as biology itself. Learn more about employment outcomes here.
Microbiologist
$81,990 per year*Agriculture and Food Scientist
$74,940 per year*Geneticist
$68,799 per year*Research Laboratory Technician
$59,000 per year*Biological Technician
$49,650 per year*Related Programs
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Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Agricultural and Food Scientist at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/agricultural-and-food-scientists.htm#:~:text=establishments%20and%20products.-,Duties,process%2C%20package%2C%20and%20deliver%20them (visited Nov. 6, 2023).
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Biological Technicians at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biological-technicians.htm (visited Nov. 6, 2023).
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Microbiologists at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm (visited Nov. 6, 2023).
ZipRecruiter, Geneticist Salary in Minneapolis, MN at https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Geneticist-Salary-in-Minneapolis,MN (visited Nov. 6, 2023).
Glassdoor, How Much Does a Research Lab Technician Make at https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/research-lab-technician-salary-SRCH_KO0,23.htm (visited Nov. 6, 2023).