Biology (BA/BS, Non-Comprehensive)
A degree that adapts to you
Explore biology from a broad angle. Or, pick more specialized electives.
Why major in biology?
- Enjoy diverse courses that take you from algae to zygote – and everywhere in between.
- We offer the most research opportunities of any undergraduate biology program in the state.
- Gain hands-on skills that set you apart in graduate school and the professional world.
- Biology is one of the most popular majors for pre-health students. Set your foundation for graduate or professional study in health-related fields like medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.
- Think outside the box and create something unique. You can choose from a wide range of minors (or pursue a second major) to highlight your overall skill-set: science writing, environmental law and much more!
Choosing your emphasis area
With help from your advisor, you can take elective courses meet your education and career goals.
Popular emphasis areas are listed below. Other emphasis areas are possible as well.
- Pre-health studies
- Pre-anesthesia
- Pre-dental
- Pre-medical
- Pre-occupational therapy
- Pre-optometry
- Pre-pharmacy
- Pre-physical therapy
- Pre-physician assistant studies
- Pre-veterinary
- Biology
- Cell
- Conservation
- Environmental
- Micro
- Molecular
- Zoology
Start your future in health care
A biology major can be the starting point on your journey to graduate or professional programs. MSU students are regularly admitted to leading schools in medicine, dentistry and more.
Which professional schools have accepted biology graduates?
Find out where our biology graduates are seeking their professional studies:
Degree options
The non-comprehensive biology option leads to a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
A minor or second major is required. Many students select a minor in chemistry to provide a firm foundation for graduate or professional study in health-related occupations.
Review the program requirements (BA or BS, non-comprehensive) for the exact courses you need to take.
Use the four-year plans below as a guide for your overall schedule.
Get a head start on your future
Earn two degrees, sooner.
An accelerated master’s program allows you to earn graduate credit as you complete your undergraduate (bachelor's) degree.
From biology to dentistry
Explore your potential career paths
A biology major can lead you to health-related graduate programs, like:
- Anesthesia
- Chiropractic
- Dentistry
- Medical
- Occupational therapy
- Optometry
- Pharmaceutical
- Physical therapy
- Physician assistant
- Veterinary
Not interested in a health-related career? Explore other careers and outcomes for a biology degree.
Helping you succeed
Find support for your education
Get involved on and off campus
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