Biology Program

Unleash your curiosity with the AU biology program. Explore the complexities of the world, how diseases spread, ecosystems, biomes, and more.

Overview

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.

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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.

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4-Year Major

Major

BA in Biology
BS in Biology
Both can be completed in a three-year track.

The core curriculum of the biology program offers four areas of specialization:

Pre-Health Professional Programs
Science Education
Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Microbiology
Ecology/Environmental Biology

Minor

A biology minor (16 hours) includes Foundations of Modern Biology I & II.

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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.

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Careers

Botanist

Environmental Ecologist

Geneticist

Laboratory Technician

Oceanographer

Soil Conservationist

Zoologist

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Areas of Specialization

Pre-Professional Specialization

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 help 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/Microbiological Specialization

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 Specialization

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.