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Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences

Bachelor of Science

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Biological Sciences Degree Program Overview

Purdue University Northwest’s biological sciences major is general biology degree provides you with a solid scientific foundation in the discipline. This diverse program offers you a wide selection of biology electives to match a wide range of career goals.

Department of Biological Sciences

Our program enhances your success through small class sizes that offer direct interactions with faculty members in both classroom and laboratory settings. You’ll also be able to take advantage of extensive research opportunities. These experiences prepare you for a number of scientific careers and graduate or professional programs.

Biological Sciences Major Curriculum

As a biological sciences major, you will take a balance of general education courses, College of Engineering and Sciences core courses and biology and science courses. You’re also required to take the Major Field Test in Biology.

Develop a foundational knowledge of key concepts in biology and learn essential lab skills.

Biological Sciences Course of Study

Sample Courses

  • BIOL 10100 – Introductory Biology
  • BIOL 10700 – Freshman Experience In Biological Sciences
  • CHM 11500 – General Chemistry

Complete 80 percent of the required core in biology by your second year. You’re encouraged to take biostatistics and declare a concentration.

Biological Sciences Course of Study

Sample Courses

  • BIOL 24400 – Genetics
  • CHM 25500 – Organic Chemistry
  • CHM 25501 – Organic Chemistry Laboratory

Develop oral and written communication skills in upper-level biology courses.

Biological Sciences Course of Study

Sample Courses

  • PHYS 22100 – General Physics
  • CHM 32400 – Survey of Environmental Chemistry

Take the biology capstone course, complete graduation requirements and further prepare for future endeavors.

Biological Sciences Course of Study

Sample Courses

  • BIOL 31100 – Introduction To Evolution
  • BIOL 42600 – Senior Capstone

Biological Sciences Degree Program Highlights

As a biological sciences major, you’ll explore upper-level course offerings in a broad range of subdisciplines. We offer small class sizes that promote active learning and flexibility in your course selection. You’ll also get the opportunity to supplement your education and research with community involvement.

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Biological Sciences Degree Program Outcomes

In this program, you’ll be able to:

  • Develop holistic understanding of biological principles
  • Gain practical lab skills
  • Take advantage of internships and research experiences

Biological Sciences Degree Program Career Paths

Career paths for graduates of this program include:

  • Laboratory or environmental technician
  • Science sales representative in the agricultural, biomedical, environmental or pharmaceutical industries

Biological Sciences Degree Program Beyond the Classroom

Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research, pursue internships and join student clubs or organizations.

See All Student Organizations

Biological Sciences Degree Program Employers

Our alumni are employed at a number of public and private organizations, including:

  • United States Geological Survey
  • Mérieux Nutrisciences
  • National Park Service

Biological Sciences Degree Program Scholarships

Biological Sciences students can apply for:

  • Biology Scholarship
  • Donald Clark Memorial Scholarship
  • Robert G. Husted, M.D. Scholarship
  • Science & Nursing Memorial Talent Award

See Engineering and Sciences Scholarships

Bianca Cortez

Biological Sciences was a good foundation and pre-professional option for preparing for dental school.

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If you're looking for a campus that supports well-rounded students through academia and getting involved, PNW is an amazing place.

Zebaneeka Washington, ‘24, Biological Sciences

Theodore Mantis

The professors have a passion to want to teach, they want you to succeed and they would take the time to help you understand concepts and connections.

PNW provided me with a strong science foundation. I was able to build a relationship with many of the faculty and staff. They taught me leadership and allowed me to grow as an individual.

Chioma Anokwute is pictured.

My experience at PNW was unique in that professors loved teaching, they encouraged students to be engaged in the classroom and I was being given the support I needed in my pursuit of admission to dental school. I was accepted into dental school and have no doubt in my mind that the Master’s program in biological sciences fully prepared me for my next phase of dental school.

Chioma Anokwute, ’21

Jodan Nikkel is pictured.

My experience as a biology student at Purdue Northwest was highlighted by ample opportunities to learn and grow both inside and outside of the classroom. Moving forward as a graduate student and researcher, I’ll always be proud to say that I went to Purdue University Northwest!

Jordan J. Nikkel, Biological Sciences, ’21

Rachel Pash is pictured.

College isn’t just about attending classes. It’s also about getting involved, gaining relevant experience and making connections. PNW offered that well-rounded experience.

Rachel Pash, Biological Sciences, ’21

Meet the Faculty

Lindsay Gielda

Lindsay M. Gielda, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Biological Sciences

Gielda is an Associate Professor of Biological Sciences. Her research and teaching focus is in the field of medical microbiology and immunology, with an emphasis in molecular biology.

Michelle Spaulding, Ph.D.

Michelle Spaulding, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Biological Sciences

Professor Spaulding studies the evolutionary history of mammals, focusing on early Cenozoic taxa. Study areas for these forms include phylogenetics, locomotor evolution and the evolution of the carnivoran brain.

Three students stand together wearing white lab coats and blue, plastic gloves. The student in the middle is holding a petri dish in the air.

Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Biological Science at PNW

Purdue University Northwest’s biological sciences degree program allows students to tailor their course of study to match their career goals.

To see how a Bachelor’s Degree in biological sciences from PNW opens doors, from public to private organizations, take the next step today!

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