Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

As a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences student, you have access to four distinct concentrations that cater to your specific interests and career goals. If you're on the pre-med path and meet the necessary requirements in psychology and biochemistry, these concentrations can be particularly valuable for you.

General Biology Concentration

  • Customize your advanced coursework to align with your individual interests and goals.
  • Ideal for students like you who value flexibility in exploring a wide spectrum of biological science topics.

Molecular Biology Concentration

  • Benefit from the ASBMB accreditation, which enhances your credentials.
  • Dive into advanced coursework covering biochemistry, bioinformatics, and cell & molecular biology, which is perfect if you're passionate about medicine, public health, epidemiology, or genetic counseling.

Physiology Concentration

  • Delve into advanced coursework focused on human physiology, including immunology, neurobiology, and endocrinology.
  • Designed for students like you who are captivated by the intricacies of human and animal physiology and the study of health and disease.

Evolution & Organismal Biology Concentration

  • Explore advanced coursework that emphasizes evolution, ecology, and biodiversity.
  • A great fit if you, as a student, are driven by the desire to contribute to conservation, sustainability, and environmental studies.

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Dual Degree Programs

B.S. in Biological Sciences / M.S. in Education

As a student interested in the B.S. in Biological Sciences / M.S. in Education program, you start by pursuing a major in Biology and meeting all the essential Biology requirements. In your third year, you take the initiative to apply for admission into the M.S. program offered by the School of Education. Subsequently, during your fourth year, you engage in educational coursework, and in your fifth year, your educational focus intensifies, with a primary emphasis on education-related classes.

B.S. in Biological Sciences / M.S. in Environmental Science and Management

Right from the start, you have the opportunity to apply directly to the Environmental Science and Management program. Once accepted, you are given the flexibility to choose whether you want to pursue a B.S. in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or Environmental Science. While the core requirements for the Biology degree align with those of a traditional Biology major, the fourth year introduces specialized environmental science courses, serving a dual purpose by fulfilling both biology electives and Environmental Science and Management requirements.

 

Biology Honors Program

Biology Honors Program Overview

The Honors Program is designed to provide Biology students with an opportunity to turn their undergraduate research experience into a formal honors thesis. Students conduct a results-based independent research project under the tutelage of a Faculty member while participating in a seminar course designed for students doing undergraduate research. The student will write an honors thesis and communicate their work publicly.

The program integrates all components of the biological sciences- basic research and the scientific method, study of primary literature, and communication of advanced scientific knowledge. Students who have experience doing independent research are invited to apply to the Honors Program no later than the spring of their junior year.  See requirements below.

Requirements for the Honors Program

  • Student must be a Biology major
  • Research experience with a Faculty mentor from the Department of Biology. On a case-by-case basis, we may allow faculty mentors from other departments.
  • Successful completion of a minimum of 3 credits of undergraduate research (BIOL 398/399, or summer URP equivalent) and a minimum of 2 semesters of research (approved summer research may count as one semester) in the lab of a Biology faculty member.

Applying to the Honors Program

Application requirements for the Honors program include:

  • At least two credits of BIOL 398 or 399 completed or in process by the time you apply to the program. Participation in the summer URP can count as one credit. 
  • 1-2 page statement describing the objectives of your independent research and results obtained to date.  Statement must explain how your research is unique from that of others working in your research lab.
  • Updated Resume
  • Transcripts
  • Contract with your research mentor
  • It is strongly advised that you meet with the Director of the Honors Program, Dr. Sarah Woodley.
  • You can contact Dr. Woodley at woodleysFREEDUQUESNE.
  • All applications are due by March 30th.