B.S. in Biological Science
Overview
Biological science is the study of living systems. This exciting, dynamic and rapidly advancing field includes areas of focus such as cell biology, neuroscience, ecology and much more. Biola's biological science degree will supply you with both the knowledge and skills to study and appreciate God's creation at the organismal and biomolecular level, as well as the knowledge and skills need to succeed in a variety of biology-oriented careers.
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Concentrations
- Environmental ScienceThe environmental science concentration prepares students to become leaders who are passionate about restoring all aspects of God’s creation. By combining scientific and theological knowledge with practical field, lab and communication skills, students will be equipped to create just and sustainable solutions addressing the environmental challenges we face in today’s world.
- General BiologyThe general biology concentration prepares students for a variety of non-health care graduate programs such as marine biology, botany, ecology, cellular biology, genetics, or medical research. This concentration allows students to choose from a wide range of upper division biology electives that are suited to their career goals including: marine biology, vertebrate biology, environmental ethics, neurobiology, and biology of cancer.
- Premed/Pre-Health Care ProfessionalThe premed/pre-health care professional concentration equips students to become strong applicants for medical, dental and veterinary schools. In this concentration, students complete a clear track of courses to prepare for the MCAT and fulfill entrance requirements. Some of the most popular upper division electives in this concentration include: prosection, parasitology, immunology, and nutrition and metabolism.
- Secondary EducationFor those interested in teaching biology at the high school level, this concentration provides coursework that, combined with successfully passing the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET), leads to a California Single Subject Teaching Credential in Biology. The Professional Teacher Preparation Program leading to a California Teaching Credential at Biola University is subject to change in response to new legislation. See a credential analyst at Biola's School of Education for current information on completing the requirements for a teaching credential. Students must consult with both their major advisor and a School of Education advisor.
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
- Immunology
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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Biological science gives you the opportunity to explore God's creation amidst its changes and progressions that enables you to grow more intellectually in knowing how profound our creator is.
Thankfulness is about more than just having a good attitude about things...it reinforces your loyalty to God in all things, builds resiliency, and allows you to recognize God's work over a long period of time.
Biological Science, B.S. '09
Before Biola I thought faith and science just ran alongside each other but now I know that the two go hand in hand.
Biological Science, B.S. '11
What can I do with a Biological Sciences Degree?
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. Biological science career options include professions such as:
- Doctor
- Forensic scientist
- Research biologist
- Life science educator
- Hospital administrator
- Laboratory researcher
- Medical technician
- Educator
- Wildlife rehabilitation specialist
Explore Biola's Health Science Careers website for specific information about various health professions.
What are Average Salaries for Biological Science Majors?
Curious about average salaries for students with a degree in biological science? See the tables below for data based on example job positions and years in the field.
| Years in Field | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | $42,230 |
| 1–4 years | $50,149 |
| 5–9 years | $64,560 |
| 10–19 years | $81,868 |
| Job Position | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Doctor (family physician) | $187,309 |
| Hospital administrator | $90,409 |
| Forensic scientist | $51,969 |
| Educator (high school teacher) | $48,855 |
This PayScale.com salary data is current as of January 23, 2018. The most recent data can be found on Payscale. The information shared here represents industry estimates and potential career outcomes, and are not guarantees from Biola University.
What are Graduates Doing Now?
Biola graduates from the 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
- University of Texas
Department of Biological Sciences
