Ohio freshwater marshes are explored by BGSU biology major students with GPS locators and marine sample collection kits.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Biology

From the tiniest organisms to the most expansive ecosystems covering our planet, biology is the study of life in all its forms. BGSU is one of Ohio’s best schools for biology majors. The Department of Biological Sciences fosters critical thinking among future scientists with active learning, individual research experiences and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Biology majors can choose whether to pursue a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts. You can specialize in areas such as ecology and conservation biology, marine and aquatic biology or pre-health biology. Or you can pursue related areas of study such as microbiology or neuroscience. 

Perhaps the most significant value of a bachelor’s degree in biology is its versatility. Biology major careers run the gamut, encompassing fields such as health, science, education, biotechnology and environmental conservation. You could be on the frontlines of groundbreaking genetics research, contribute to saving endangered species or develop innovative solutions to challenges like climate change and food insecurity. 

Biology is also available as a minor.

Why study biology at BGSU in Ohio?

  • Stellar reputation. The BGSU Department of Biological Sciences has been recognized for outstanding contributions to education and research.
  • Small class size. Class sizes for BGSU biology majors are intentionally small, allowing for more 1:1 student-faculty interactions and personalized academic support. 
  • Outstanding faculty. BGSU biological science faculty conduct research of international significance. They generate more than 50 peer-reviewed biology research publications and more than $1 million in external grant funding annually. Their research includes studies of harmful algal blooms in the Great Lakes, organisms in ancient ice from Antarctica and identification of bacteria that produce toxins against other bacteria. 
  • State-of-the-art learning facilities. The BGSU Life Sciences Building is a 5-story, 120,000-square-foot research and teaching complex on the main campus with over 40 laboratories. Access top-of-the-line technology in our
    • Herpetology and microbiology laboratories
    • Electron and light microscopy center
    • Ecological research station
    • Greenhouse facilities
    • A 20,000-specimen herbarium 
  • Exciting research opportunities. Undergraduates in the biological sciences have ample opportunities for hands-on experiences. You can participate in research projects, field research studies and internships typically only available to graduate-level students at other universities. 
  • Join the club. 
  • BGSU graduate degrees. Take your learning to the next level with a BGSU master’s in biology or a Ph.D. in biological sciences.

The marine and aquatic biology program – unique to the state – houses the BGSU Marine Laboratory, which contains over 3,000 gallons of seawater in over 40 aquaria.

Career - what can you do with a biology degree?

What kind of jobs can you get with a biology degree? The possibilities are vast. 

Biology is at the center of so many of society’s most urgent challenges. It’s also closely intertwined with all other areas of natural science, as well as social sciences, art, philosophy and humanities. Biological sciences are a gateway to many careers requiring an understanding of the mechanism and systems upon which life depends. 

The work of biologists helps us better understand life’s functions and adaptations, and apply that knowledge to resolve some of the world’s most pressing problems. Studies can encompass disease, medical advances, global changes, agriculture, biotechnology, bioinformatics, environmental management, species conservation, genetic diversity and so much more.

Careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology may land you in hospitals, governments, high schools, universities or corporate suites. Options may vary depending on whether you’ve earned a B.A. in biology of a B.S. in biology. 

Roughly a third of biology graduates are employed in healthcare and technical occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. New biology niches – such as those emerging in the rapidly rising fields of genomics and bioinformatics – are constantly being discovered. These pave the way for new jobs for biology majors, such as genetic counseling and computational genomics.

Career paths

  • Public health specialist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Behavioral neuroscientist
  • Ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI) researcher
  • Pharmaceutical sales
  • Agricultural and food scientist
  • Environmental scientist
  • Conservation scientist

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View average salaries

Curriculum

Curriculum for both the BGSU Bachelor of Arts in biology and the Bachelor of Science in biology puts graduates within reach of rewarding careers in medicine, research, education, public policy and environmental protection. 

BGSU prioritizes scientific rigor, critical thinking and skilled communication. Starting with a foundation in courses like Concepts in Biology, General Genetics, General Chemistry and Evolution, students then choose 16 hours of biology electives in three areas: 

  • Biology of Organisms
  • Ecology, Evolution and Behavior
  • Cell, Molecular and Regulatory Biology

Learning outcomes for all BGSU bachelor of biology majors include:

  • Understanding of basic principles of living systems at the molecular, cellular and organismal level and how these principles are unified through evolution
  • Understanding of the nature, methods of acquiring and limitations of scientific evidence
  • Capacity to competently participate in the process of scientific inquiry
  • Recognition of the value of living systems and the societal importance of the natural sciences, biological sciences, basic research and scientific thinking
  • Ability to communicate scientific information and reasoning in written, oral and other presentation formats 
  • Ability to apply and extrapolate biological science knowledge and skills to meaningful address challenges great and small

Bachelor of Science in biology vs. Bachelor of Arts in biology 

BGSU offers biology majors the unique opportunity to tailor their education to more closely meet their long-term goals by offering the option for both a B.S. and a B.A. in biology. Both will have the same foundation of BG Perspectives (general education prerequisites), chemistry and physics and a chosen mix of electives. 

The B.S. in biology tends toward greater emphasis on technical aspects of the field. It has a more intensive focus on scientific coursework, including advanced laboratory work, research and math or physics. It’s ideal for students planning to pursue graduate studies in biology, professional healthcare programs like med or vet school, or careers in scientific research. 

The B.A. in biology offers a broader liberal arts education and allows for more electives. This flexibility makes the Bachelor of Arts more suitable for students interested in interdisciplinary fields, such as science communication, education or policy. 

Both biology bachelor’s programs can lead to great careers. BGSU empowers you to choose the path that best matches your goals and interests.

Undergrad biology students doing hands-on research in an Ohio-based BGSU biology lab, one of 40 in the Life Sciences Building.

Sample courses

  • Pathogenic Microbiology
  • Medical Entomology
  • Microbial Genetics
  • Epidemiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Plant Diversity
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
  • Restorative Ecology
  • Marine Biology

Updated: 12/12/2024 11:04AM