Department of Biology

Biology Undergraduate Program

A small statue of a Bear with its intestines and bones exposed

Find your niche in the natural world

Journey into a study of Earth's ecosystems and inhabitants, from the tiniest molecules to the largest species of wildlife.

A biology degree opens doors to extensive research, education and career opportunities.

Options: Specialize in your area

Customize your studies with a comprehensive biology degree.

Pick an option that matches your strengths and goals. A minor is not required.

Biology professor Dr. Debra Finn and a group of students collect samples from a local creek for research.
Option
Environmental biology and evolution
Discover how nature, environments and organisms interact together.
A student uses a pipette to add a liquid to a test tube in his cellular biology class. Beside him, another student watches.
Option
Microbiology and biotechnology
Explore cell and molecular biology, genetics and geonomics, microbiology and modern biotechnologies, including nanotechnology.
Angelina Call, a high school science teacher and MSU alum, smiles as her students raise their hands to answer a question during class.
Option
Pre-teacher education (biology education pathway)
Inspire the next generation of biologists.
A student admiringly observes the fish in a colorful aquarium at Wonders of Wildlife.
Option
Wildlife and fisheries biology
Faciliate the health and wellbeing of wildlife and ecosystem services.

Why major in biology at Missouri State?

Biology students on a field look in awe at a snake coiled on the ground.
  • Unearth your interests – Cover the basics and see how the study of life connects with diverse subject areas.
  • Get guidance from the experts – Learn from internationally-respected faculty and advisors who understand your interests and will help you reach your goals.
  • Have hands-on learning – Enhance your education with study abroad experiences and internships. Explore summer course work at research labs and field stations.
  • Find a path that works for you – Choose from multiple options in various biology topics.

Prefer more flexibility in your studies?

A non-comprehensive degree in biology is the way to go.

Three biology students in white lab coats and BearWear pose together outside of Blunt Hall.
Major
Biology (BA/BS, Non-Comprehensive)
Cover biology's fundamentals. Ideal for double-majors or pre-health students.
Research

Show your research prowess

Doing research can enrich your education and prepare you for future endeavors. As a biology major, you can get involved right away.
A biology student in a white lab coat conducts research work inside Jordan Valley Innovation Center

Degree options

Want to major in biology? Review the program requirements for the exact courses you need to take.

Use a four-year plan as the guide for your overall schedule.

Sample degree plans
Four-year
Join the Bears
Transfer resources

Accelerated master's: Get a head start on your future

Earn graduate credit as you complete your undergraduate degree (major).

Biology minor

Already have a major? Enhance your degree with a biology minor.

 

Two biology students pose next to a Bear statute outside Blunt Hall. One student is holding a snake. The other student is wearing a white lab coat.
Careers and Outcomes
Explore your potential career paths
A bachelor’s degree in biology is your stepping-stone into the workforce or professional/graduate school.

Immersive academics

Advisement
Find academic help and guidance
Courses
Search departmental courses
Facilities and resources
Explore your places to study and learn
Transfer credit
Bring college credit with you to MSU

Helping you succeed

A biology student writes with a marker on a whiteboard.
Scholarships and financial aid

Find support for your education

Three students sitting at a table for the pre-medical society during a campus event.
Student opportunities and services

Get involved on and off campus

Biology department head Dr. Kyoungtae Kim teaching a lab class.
Faculty and staff

Meet your department

A student at commencement waving and smiling while holding her diploma cover.
Alumni and friends

Stay in touch with your alma mater