Dive deep into the natural sciences
Biology Degree Program
Unleash your curiosity with the AU biology program. Explore the complexities of the world, how diseases spread, ecosystems, biomes, and more.
Future Biology experts are getting prepared right here.
From lab research to fieldwork, a biology program degree opens doors to a world of exploration.
Our Program
The biology program at Anderson University is dedicated to providing students with a well-rounded background in the field of biology. Students can concentrate their studies in various areas of biology by taking courses such as Anatomy & Physiology, Histology, Mammalian Physiology, Molecular Biology, Plant Science, and Environmental Ecology. Students interested in botany and entomology can also pursue their own individual course route. Biology majors are encouraged to design individual projects that examine and investigate their particular area of interest.
Mentorship Program
The Mentoring Science Activity is designed to create a mentorship program between college students majoring in biology or related science field at AU and local high school students interested in the field of biology or science.
Be the catalyst for scientific innovation.
Be at the forefront of scientific discovery. Pursue a biology degree and explore the living world.
EXPLORE THE BIOLOGY PROGRAM
All biology students take a core of six courses that prepares them to take the MCAT and Graduate Record Exams. The core courses include the study of zoology, botany, microbiology, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
Degree Options
- Earn a BA or BS degree in Biology.
- Both the BA and BS can be completed in a three-year track, if desired.
The core curriculum of the biology program offers four areas of specialization:
- Pre-Health Professional Programs
- Science Education
- Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Microbiology
- Ecology/Environmental Biolog
Earn a Minor
Minor: A biology minor (16 hours) includes Foundations of Modern Biology I & II.
Biology Program Classes
- The Bachelor of Arts in Biology (48 hours) focuses primarily on biology and chemistry courses. All students are required to take courses in Foundations of Modern Biology, Cell Biology, Microbes & Disease, Genetics, Science Seminar, and 12 additional hours from upper-division biology courses. General Chemistry I & II and Organic Chemistry I are also required. View the courses required for the BA in Biology.
- The Bachelor of Science in Biology (72 hours) begins with a 40-hour biology core and includes coursework in chemistry, as well as mathematics and physics. It fulfills the entrance requirements for medical school. View the courses required for the BS in Biology.
Careers
- Botanist
- Environmental Ecologist
- Geneticist
- Laboratory Technician
- Oceanographer
- Soil Conservationist
- Zoologist
AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
The core curriculum of the biology program offers four areas of specialization in pre-health professional programs, science education, molecular biology/biochemistry/microbiology, and ecology/environmental biology.
Pre-Professional
A biology degree prepares students for a pre-professional program when they graduate. Biology plays an important role in the following types of programs:
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Optometry
- Physician Assistant
- Pharmacy
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Veterinary Science
Our faculty helps students prepare to achieve their goals through a one-on-one advising process. Our alumni have been accepted into a wide range of professional schools and are successful in their chosen professions.
Molecular, Biochemical, and Microbiological
Students gain experience in the laboratory by performing molecular techniques like:
- DNA & Protein Gel Electrophoresis
- DNA & Protein Purification
- PCR
- Gene Cloning
Students also work with fruit fly genetics, bacterial mutagenesis, enzyme assays, and various types of chromatography. We offer opportunities for independent research projects, as well as advanced course options.
Environmental
Students gain hands-on experience testing the water quality of the White River, using both a macroinvertebrate assay and a chemical monitoring assay. They also visit unique habitats in Indiana like sedge meadow fen, the highest quality remaining wetland in the state. Students visit the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, while some students take their biology electives at the Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies where they practice hands-on skills in the areas of ecology and conservation.
Meet our Department of Natural Sciences faculty during your campus visit.
Michael Bailey Chair of the Department of Natural Sciences Paul Bankole Asst. Professor of Biology Dr. Scott R. Carr Professor of Chemistry Dr. Renfang Taylor Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Chad E. Wallace Professor of Chemistry Tyler Williamson Assistant Professor of Physics _ Department of Natural Science
The Anderson You
You have unique interests and skills that set you apart. Explore the free My College Career Quiz to receive a personalized list of majors selected just for you. We’ve taken out the guessing work. Come find the Anderson you.