Biology
The biology discipline strives to provide a modern, rigorous, broad-based, laboratory-intensive education that is intellectually challenging. Central to the mission of the program is a commitment to engaging biology majors in the actual process of science by encouraging them to participate in collaborative research with faculty.
Primary Major Credential
B.S.
Offered As
Major & minor
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.
*Courses Checklist:
BIOL 120 Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology
BIOL 121 Introduction to Organismal Biology
BIOL 244 Genetics
BIOL 499 Senior Assessment
CHEM 105 General Chemistry 1
CHEM 107 General Chemistry 2
Six Biology electives at 200 level or above.
Additional Required Courses in Chemistry:
CHEM 220 Organic Chemistry
CHEM 222 Organic Chemistry: Intermediate or CHEM 232 Organic Chemistry: Research Emphasis
CHEM 350 Biochemistry
*This pathway is to be used as a guide. Refer to the Course Catalog for official degree requirements.
*Courses Checklist:
BIOL 120 Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology, C-PN
BIOL 121 Introduction to Organismal Biology
BIOL 244 Genetics
BIOL 499 Senior Assessment (0 cr)
CHEM 105 General Chemistry 1, C-PN
CHEM 107 General Chemistry 2
Organismal Biology Concentration:
BIOL 201 Botany
BIOL 228 Ecology
CHEM 220 Organic Chemistry
Five Biology classes 200. level or above
(May include only one of BIOL 490 Independent Study, BIOL 492 Direct Research, BIOL 494 Internship or BIOL 496 Research and Thesis)
*This pathway is to be used as a guide. Refer to the Course Catalog for official degree requirements.
*Courses Checklist:
BIOL 120 Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology, C-PN
BIOL 121 Introduction to Organismal Biology
Four Biology electives at the 200 level or above
*This pathway is to be used as a guide. Refer to the Course Catalog for official degree requirements.
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.
“Everyone is dedicated to developing students & making them better people in every way when they leave.”
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
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
