Biological science is the study of living systems. In Biola's biological science program, you will acquire the knowledge and develop the skills that will allow you to study and appreciate God's creation at the organismal and biomolecular level, preparing you for a range of health-related careers.

Why Choose Biological Science at Biola?

In addition to its strong curriculum and biblical integration, Biola’s biological science program offers several key advantages:

• Small class sizes and laboratory sections give you an opportunity to develop close relationships with your professors, who have extensive experience in teaching, research and publishing.
• Well-equipped laboratories offer hands-on experience and opportunities to put your learning into action.
• Graduates report feeling well prepared for biological-related careers, which are among the best-paid, highest-satisfaction and fastest-growing occupations.
• Biola’s location in Southern California — one of the world’s largest and most diverse metropolitan areas — is ideal for internships and job opportunities.
• Integration of known biological facts with scriptural principles are emphasized and taught to guide you in your spiritual development -- you will graduate with the ability to effectively discuss theories of origins and evolution within the context of a Scriptural view of creation.

What Will I Study?

As a biological science major, you will develop a basic competence and knowledge of living organisms and vital processes in the allied sciences such as zoology, botany, physiology, genetics, ecology, nutrition, biochemistry and immunology from a Biblical perspective. You will develop a strong understanding of the scientific method and know how to responsibly apply various biological disciplines to real-life situations. Learning and course highlights include:

• Emphasizing the principles of cellular and molecular biology and genetics
• Introduction to principles of systems and biodiversity
• Collecting and interpreting quantitative data
• Field research and practicing writing for the biological sciences
• Using a scanning electron microscope
• Participating in human systems analysis and electrophysiology labs
• Studying microbial organisms on bacteria and viruses
• Discussing the molecular organization and function of cells and their organelles
• Differentiating between vertebrate groups
• Experience in experimental design, laboratory investigation and technical writing

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Career Paths

As a highly skilled and technically competent scientist, you will be prepared to enter graduate school and to impact the world for Jesus Christ in fields such as research, medicine, education, environmental science and biochemistry. Career options include professions such as:

• Doctor
• Forensic scientist
• Research biologist
• Life science educator
• Hospital administrator
• Laboratory researcher
• Medical technician
• Educator
• Wildlife rehabilitation specialist

For more information on careers in the health care field, please visit our Health Science Careers website.

What are Graduates Doing Now?

Graduates of Biola's biological science major have gone on to study at prestigious graduate schools, including: University of California, Los Angeles; University of California, San Diego; University of Southern California; Michigan State University; Tulane University; University of Chicago; University of Washington; University of Arizona; Washington State University; and University of Texas.