Biology Major
Examine the World. Then Change It.
Whether you desire a robust background in biology or aspire to share your passion for science with a classroom of your own, Saint Mary’s offers a comprehensive biology major that examines our living world. With four biology tracks to choose from, your interests can take you where you want to go. And we’re here to help you get there.
Studying general biology provides you with the solid foundation of the study of life, along with extensive research. Prepare to teach biology, zoology, and general science in grades 5-12* when you pursue our life sciences track. With a bachelor’s degree in biology, you could one day be a candidate for graduate school in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or veterinary medicine. The world is all yours.
Tracks
General Biology
Explore it all. Study the hierarchical organization of living systems — molecule, organelle, cell, tissue, organ system, individual organism, population, community, and ecosystem — through a sequence of courses to develop an approach to independent study through biological research. Choose from a variety of electives to fit your interests.
Life Sciences
Share your love of biology with a classroom of your own. Prepare to teach biology, zoology, and general science in grades 5–12 when you also double major in secondary education.
Pre-Medical Professions
Is graduate school your ultimate goal? Prepare to pursue professional schools in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine.
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Unique Program Features
What makes it special:
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Discover the dynamic and revolutionary Science and Learning Center. Its state-of-the-art learning spaces are a place where innovation is cultivated with a hands-on approach combined with practical learning and research in classrooms. Today’s climate requires innovation to be fostered through textbook study and hands-on learning. Together, these soft skills and analytical skills will help you grow as a leader.
What You'll Learn
What You’ll Learn
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General understanding of the diverse landscape of modern biology
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Knowledge of standard laboratory tools and methodology
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Independent laboratory research in relevant biological sub-discipline
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Research and presentation skills in written and oral communication
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Research and presentation skills in written and oral communication
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Critical thinking skills for analysis and decision-making
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Ethical leadership and collaborative relationship-building
Teach STEM in a high-need district
Share your passion for biology — with your own classroom
Teaching in a STEM field allows you to stay connected with the discipline you love while inspiring children to see it as a possible option for their lives and careers.
The ISTEP-Noyce program is designed to help increase the number of secondary STEM teachers from diverse backgrounds committed to teaching in high-need schools – to ensure all learners are served.
With Saint Mary’s ISTEP-Noyce grants, you can receive two years of scholarship support.
Course Catalog
Aquinas Hall
On October 15, 2021, Saint Mary’s publicly dedicated Aquinas Hall, its newly renovated home to innovation and interdisciplinary work in business, psychology, and science.
Careers that look to the future.
A degree in biology can be the first step toward a career in research, health care, education, and business. The median annual salary with a biology degree is $65,000.1 Pursue graduate studies in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine.
Biological Technician
$48,140Health Education Specialist
$48,860Biology Teacher
$61,820Agricultural and Food Scientist.
$74,160Microbiologist
$79,260