Student wearing lab coat works with test tubes in a biology lab background

Biology

The study of life

What could possibly be more interesting than the study of life itself? From the tiniest microorganisms to the tallest trees, biologists investigate the mysteries of life. Their discoveries help balance ecosystems, restore the environment, feed the hungry and cure disease.

Biology courses at St. Norbert College explore life at all levels, from amoebas to ecosystems. Our classroom lab experiences and collaborations with faculty will nurture your excitement for this vital research and fieldwork, while developing your skill in the scientific method.

Academic paths within the biology major

At SNC, you’ll choose one of two concentrations for a Bachelor of Science degree in biology:

  • Biomedical sciences concentration: This prepares you for professional graduate programs in various medical and allied health fields, as well as other graduate programs in the biological sciences (e.g., a Master of Science or doctoral program).
  • Organismal biology concentration: This exposes you broadly to biology studies, at scales ranging from the micro-organismal to the global. It equips you for work in secondary education, industry, government, graduate school or nonprofits.

Many of our students also choose to minor in biology — the rigorous approach to research complements majors in other fields like chemistry, education, computer science, business administration and even communication and media studies.

Elevate your biology education

Biology majors at SNC don’t have to wait until graduate school to start doing research. In fact, you can begin working on academic research with professors as a first-year student at SNC using our state-of-the art facilities and cutting-edge equipment. Some research is funded with grants and scholarships.

SNC has a chapter of Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta), a national biology society for students. TriBeta hosts speakers, participates in biology-related volunteer work and helps guide students toward careers in biology.

When you’re ready to test out some career options, join other SNC biology majors in pursuing college internships with employers such as Kimberly-Clark, Northwestern Mutual and the Woodland Dunes Nature Center. Study biology in new settings through our study abroad programs, which include options such as marine biology coursework in Ecuador and endocrinology in the United Kingdom. SNC gives you plenty of options to future-proof your biology degree.

Major requirements

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Minor requirements

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Course offerings

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  • St. Norbert is a small school but with big-school opportunities. I remember walking into my first med school interview, and the person next to me had their Ph.D. from Yale ... . But in talking about our experiences, I realized that I’ve gotten to do all the same things or more because there are so many opportunities here.

    Amy Holzer '20

    Portrait of student Amy Holzer
    Portrait of student Amy Holzer

    St. Norbert is a small school but with big-school opportunities. I remember walking into my first med school interview, and the person next to me had their Ph.D. from Yale ... . But in talking about our experiences, I realized that I’ve gotten to do all the same things or more because there are so many opportunities here.

    Amy Holzer '20

  • I always wanted to pursue medicine, and everything fell into place when I started classes. I gained a lot out of the smaller classes and the faculty went into great detail to give students information on their personal interests. At St. Norbert, everyone is dedicated to developing students and making them better people in every way when they leave the college.

    Audrey Makope ’22

    Portrait of student Audrey Makope
    Portrait of student Audrey Makope

    I always wanted to pursue medicine, and everything fell into place when I started classes. I gained a lot out of the smaller classes and the faculty went into great detail to give students information on their personal interests. At St. Norbert, everyone is dedicated to developing students and making them better people in every way when they leave the college.

    Audrey Makope ’22

  • If you want to learn, there’s so many people here to help that can direct you to the available resources, on campus or off. Just explore openly.

    Subash Lamichhane ’21

    Portrait of student Subash Lamichhane
    Portrait of student Subash Lamichhane

    If you want to learn, there’s so many people here to help that can direct you to the available resources, on campus or off. Just explore openly.

    Subash Lamichhane ’21

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Undergraduate research

Uncover new knowledge by engaging in collaborative research projects with your professors.

Learn more
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Practical internships

Explore the field through internships, and find out what it’s like to put your academic training to work.

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International reach

Craft a global approach to your biology degree through our study abroad program.

Learn more
Professor Carrie Kissman and student in a row boat on a research expedition
Learn from exceptional SNC biology faculty

If there’s one thing that SNC professors and instructors have in common, it’s a passion for teaching and sharing their expertise. You’ll also find them dedicated to providing personalized guidance that supports your academic and career aspirations. Discover the distinguished scholars you’ll be learning from.

Laurel Laurel

Your biology degree at work

The range of work that biologists do is as diverse as life itself. SNC biology alumni can be found working in many roles after earning their degrees, including:

  • Cardiac procedures technician
  • Conservation warden
  • Lab technologist
  • Microbiologist
  • Science teacher

Future study in biology

If you’re considering a graduate degree after your undergraduate studies in biology at SNC, we have an excellent track record for preparation and placement. Join other SNC alumni in pursuing advanced study at schools such as:

  • Drexel University
  • Loyola University
  • Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Northwestern University
  • University of Minnesota

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Contact the St. Norbert College admission office

Campus location

Ariens Family Welcome Center
310 College Ave.
De Pere, WI 54115

Hours of operation

Monday-Friday
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

We’re also available by appointment.

Mailing address

Office of Admission
St. Norbert College
Ariens Family Welcome Center
100 Grant St.
De Pere, WI 54115

Campus