35 BEST BACHELOR'S DEGREES IN BIOLOGY

At Lake Forest College, students who pursue the Bachelor of Biology program have the opportunity to gain laboratory experience and may even be able to perform research with faculty. Students often work with techniques that many undergraduates do not have access to, including PCR, molecular imaging, field data collection, DNA sequence analysis, and more. Undergraduate students have also published their research in peer-reviewed scientific journals, including Lake Forest's journal, Eukaryon. By becoming involved with Eukaryon, students can learn about the editing, layout design, and other aspects that go into publishing a peer-reviewed journal.

Each year, over 1,500 undergraduates attend Lake Forest College, including nearly 200 international students. Of the nearly 200 teaching faculty, 97 percent hold the highest available degree in their field. In addition to its traditional degrees, the college offers more than 200 study abroad programs in over 70 countries. The Princeton Review has ranked Lake Forest College as the ninth-best school for internships, and as having the twelfth best alumni network. Lake Forest College has also ranked in The Princeton Review's top 20 lists for the best college library, happiest students, best athletic facilities, and most popular study abroad program. 

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology program. During this program, students will gain experience with formal laboratory exercises, but will also have the chance to perform project-based research. While program graduates are prepared to hold positions in research institutes and other opportunities, many graduates pursue a Ph.D. in areas including biochemistry, cell biology, and physiology. Students who plan to pursue an MD can also benefit from this degree program.

MIT was founded in 1861 and is situated on a 166-acre campus. This institute is highly competitive; the institute received 21,706 applications for the Class of 2022 and admitted 1,464 students. At MIT, undergraduate students enjoy a 3:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring a personalized, supportive, quality education. MIT is home to Nobel Laureates, National Medal of Science winners, MacArthur Fellows, A.M. Turing Award winners, and more. Over 4,000 undergraduate and nearly 7,000 graduate students attend MIT to pursue degrees in the science and technology fields. 

Students who pursue Maryville University's Bachelor's in Biology program enjoy an average class size of just 14 students. Biology majors can concentrate in areas including biomedical science, biotechnology, medical laboratory science, sustainability and environmental stewardship, and applied microbiology. Undergraduate students who study on-campus receive an iPad with over 150 apps to support their education and students are paired with a life coach to help them personalize their education to their strengths. The program offers a 97 percent career placement rate. 

Maryville University was founded in 1872, and over 9,000 students are enrolled at the university today. Students can choose from over 90 different degree programs, including 25 online degrees, and 90 percent of faculty hold a terminal degree in their field. This private university is frequently included in top educational rankings. Forbes has included Maryville in its "Best Colleges" ranking for three years, and Kiplinger's has included Maryville in its list of the 100 private colleges offering the best values for the past seven years. 

Illinois College's Bachelor of Science in Biology is available with concentrations in Biology/Ecology, Biology/Physiology, 3-2 Biology/Occupational Therapy, and 3-1 Biology/ Medical Technology. During their senior year, students must enroll in a capstone sequence consisting of Research and Analysis I and II. Teaching certifications in biology are also available, but students should consult with the Department of Education early on in their degrees if they are interested in this certification. Most students complete at least one research project during their degrees and also have access to internships and clinical experiences. Students have recently completed internships at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and the SIU School of Medicine.

The first college in Illinois, Illinois College was established in 1829. Today, 1,000 students pursue degrees in 45 areas of study through the college. Illinois College offers an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The college participates in DIII athletics, and students log 11,000 hours of community service each year. Illinois College is also home to one of just 11 Phi Beta Kappa chapters in the state. 

The University of La Verne's Biology Bachelor of Science degree program where students can expect to take a variety of courses, such as General Chemistry, Ecology, Cell Biology, and Statistics and Applications for Life Sciences. Students can also participate in several campus clubs and organizations affiliated with the Biology Department. These include the Botany and Gardening Club, Global Medical Brigades, Society of Physical Life Science Scholars, and Students Engaged in Environmental Discussion and Service.

Founded in 1891, La Verne is a private, not-for-profit university. Four colleges make up the university, and students can pursue programs through La Verne's eight Southern California campuses. La Verne also offers many programs online. Over 8,000 students attend the university, and 44% are first-generation college students. Over 70 percent of the university's students receive financial aid to help them afford their education.

Slippery Rock University's Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Arts in Biology programs are designed to suit students' career goals in both biologies and related fields. The Bachelor of Science program is available with Biomedical Sciences, Professional, Cytotechnology, Histotechnology, and Medical Technology concentrations. Students can also take either the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degrees as a pre-masters in the education program.

Founded in 1889, SRU is home to over 8,500 students. The public, the coeducational, four-year university is situated on a 660-acre campus, and students may pursue undergraduate and graduate programs both on-campus and online. Weeklong, summer, and semester study abroad options are also available. The university also offers more than 150 on-campus student clubs and organizations. 

Assumption College's Bachelor's in Biology program offers students a hands-on laboratory and research experience. Students can take up to two biology internships for academic credit, and have access to the college's Testa Science Center's laboratory facilities. Students may pursue a concentration in neuroscience or medical technology, and take 16 courses in math and science.

Assumption College is a Catholic college located on a 185-acre campus. The college has a second campus in Rome, Italy, offering students a unique study abroad opportunity. Students from 30 states and 14 countries attend Assumption, and 90 percent of students live on campus for all four years of their education. The college offers an undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education program, preparing students to advance their careers.

Students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham can tailor their education to suit their interests. The degree is offered with tracks in Integrated Biology, Marine Science, and Molecular Biology, so students can develop a specialization and target their education toward their intended career fields. The university also offers a 5th Year Master of Science Program through which students can dually enroll as a BS and MS student once they've earned 60 credit hours toward their BS In many cases, students enrolled in this program can earn their BS and MS Biology degree in just five years. 

At UAB, undergraduate students can research labs in their freshman year and have the opportunity to showcase their work in Inquiro, UAB's student-published research journal. Students can also access UAB's library collections, which include over 1.4 million volumes as well as over 40,000 journals. In 2018, UAB received research grants exceeding $500 million. The U.S. News & World Report included 14 of UAB's programs in the top 25 of its 2020 rankings. 

The University of Mary Washington's Bachelor in Biology program offers students hands-on learning experiences in the biological sciences. The major requires 40 credit hours, including a senior seminar, a research-intensive course, and a course with a laboratory component. Students may also be eligible to pursue paid internships offered through the Commonwealth STEM Industry Internship Program. Internships may be available in areas such as zoology, botany, and ecology. The museums in Fredericksburg, Richmond, or Washington, D.C. may also have available internships.

UMW is a selective, coeducational, public institution offering over 60 majors. About 4,400 undergraduate students attend UMW, with 55 percent living on campus. Undergraduate classes average just 19 students in size and 86 percent of faculty hold a doctorate or other terminal degree in their field. UMW also offers a significant study abroad program, with seven exchange programs and 147 approved study abroad programs in 51 different countries. One-third of all students at UMW choose to study abroad during their education, and during the past three years, students received $183,980 in study abroad scholarships.

At Tennessee Tech, students can pursue a Biology Bachelor of Science degree program. The degree is available with concentrations in Biology, Cellular Biology, Environmental Biology, and Health Sciences. The Biology Department's research greenhouse houses 200 plants that are used for teaching several classes, thought students and faculty might also utilize the greenhouse for research. Students may also participate in several clubs and organizations, including Beta Beta Beta, the national biological honor society; the Tennessee Tech Student Fisheries Association; and the university chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Over 10,000 students attend Tennessee Tech, where they pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees across the university's eight academic schools and colleges. The university has a 75 percent retention rate for first-time students, and the university's 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio offers students the ability to engage with faculty. Tennessee Tech's Angelo & Jennette Volpe Library houses 367,000 books and e-books, as well as 100,000 periodicals and 100 electronic databases, helping to facilitate quality student research.

The University of Georgia's Biology - Bachelor of Science degree program, gives students a broad education within the many biological fields of study. This liberal arts degree prepares students for professional programs and enables them to pursue advanced degrees in the field. Students may choose to pursue this degree with a concentration in neuroscience or a marine biology emphasis. Students may also enroll in over a dozen relevant clubs and student organizations, including the Biology and Life Sciences Association, the Ecology Club, and the Genetics Students Association.

UGA was founded in 1785 and is recognized as being the birthplace of public higher education in the country. Today, its main campus encompasses 762 acres and houses 465 buildings. Seventeen schools and colleges make up UGA, and its research libraries house 5.2 million volumes as well as one of the largest map collections in the country. In 2017, the university's research and development expenditures totaled $455 million. At this competitive university, the 2018 freshman class had an average GPA of 4.04. UGA's student body has included countless scholarship winners, including 24 Rhodes Scholars, 7 Marshall Scholars, 56 Goldwater Scholars, and more. 

North Central College offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology program that provides students with countless opportunities for hands-on and unique learning experiences. The curriculum focuses on research, and students may collaborate with faculty on research projects. Students may have a chance to present their work at the Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research, and publication opportunities are also available. Students may also apply for the college's funded summer research program, travel to Costa Rica or other locations to perform fieldwork, and pursue a minor in environmental studies, neuroscience, or bioinformatics.

Founded in 1861, North Central College offers a liberal arts and science-based education to nearly 3,000 students. The college offers 65 undergraduate and graduate degree programs taught by 150 full-time and 33 part-time faculty. The U.S. News & World Report ranked North Central College in the top 10 best colleges in the Midwest, and in 2014-2015, the college was recognized as a top producer of Fulbright Scholars. 

Students who pursue the Bachelor of Science in Biology program at Husson University often pursue biological science or research careers. The program has a flexible design, so students can customize their degree to focus on their areas of interest. The curriculum encompasses both laboratory courses and field studies that incorporate plants, animals, and marine environments. Students enrolled in the program must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA and a "C" or better in biology courses.

At Husson University, students enjoy a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing faculty to provide students with plenty of support and individualized attention. Classes average just 19 students in size, and students can pursue degrees through the School of Pharmacy, College of Business, College of Science & Humanities, and more. Husson University offers the lowest net price of any NECHE-accredited four-year institution in Maine, and the university awards more than $14 million in grants and scholarships every year. 

Moravian College's Bachelor's in Biology program offers students a comprehensive education to instill an understanding of how biological systems are connected at all levels. Students will learn to use methodological approaches in laboratory settings, and in upper-level and seminar courses, they will discuss recent research findings. Moravian College students have the opportunity to pursue an independent study or Honors project, working closely with faculty as they develop their original research topics. Students may also choose to participate in internships.

Moravian College was founded in 1742 as a separate Girls' School and a Boys' School, making it the sixth oldest college in the country. In 1954, the two schools merged to create a coeducational institution. Today, the college offers 50 majors and minors, and students also have the opportunity to design their unique majors. At Moravian College, students can participate in the college's 80 student clubs and organizations. With more than 65 percent of students living on campus, the campus is a lively, busy place. 

At Eastern Kentucky University, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology program with an Aquatic Biology, Biodiversity, and Conservation, Biology Teaching, or General Biology concentration. The university's 27 full-time faculty with PhDs teach the degree courses and labs, and students often work together with faculty to complete independent research projects. Many of those projects are funded by agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors enrolled in this degree program may be eligible for scholarships that are, both, need- and merit-based.

EKU offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. In addition to providing these programs on campus, many are also available online for distance learners. EKU's main campus is located in Madison, but regional campuses in Lancaster, Corbin, Manchester, and Hazard make in-person education opportunities accessible to more students. EKU offers many different scholarships to help students pay for their education, and scholarships are available for in-state freshmen, out-of-state freshmen, transfer students, and current students.

Students who pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology program at Birmingham-Southern College gain a hands-on educational experience that includes field trips, research projects, and pre-professional internships. With small class sizes, faculty can provide students with individualized attention in small groups and one-on-one. The coursework is also designed to get students out into the field, including with experiments at the nearby Turkey Creek Nature Preserve or with international experiences and trips. 

Founded in 1856, Birmingham-Southern College is a private liberal arts institution located on a 192-acre campus. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, this college educates nearly 1,300 students each year. Students can choose from 29 undergraduate majors, 26 minors, and three distinctions. Birmingham-Southern College is home to 22 NCAA Division III sports teams, as well as more than 80 clubs and organizations.

Southern New Hampshire University's Bachelor of Science in Biology degree program gives students opportunities to gain hands-on laboratory and fieldwork experience to complement their coursework. Students develop the skills and theoretical learning needed for their careers, and students also have the opportunity to tailor their education to focus on their areas of interest. This program is ideal for students with a variety of goals, whether they plan to pursue additional education, immediately begin a career after graduating, or earn other certifications.

At SNHU, students learn from highly qualified faculty who are also accessible and supportive. SNHU's 300-acre campus is home to over 50 student clubs, as well as Division II athletic teams. Students can also pursue affordable study abroad programs. While SNHU offers students a quality education and plenty of opportunities, it is one of the most affordable private nonprofit universities within the state. Qualified students may be eligible to receive up to $20,000 in grants and scholarships to help them afford their education. 

Lakeland University's Bachelor of Biology program is focused on both hands-on teaching and interactive learning. Students acquire valuable hands-on research experience as they complete classes in a variety of topics, including molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, and physics. A group of 10 to 15 students has the chance to travel to Belize every other May, where they perform investigative research in a tropical rainforest and study coral reef ecology. Many Lakeland students are accepted into competitive graduate biology programs after completing this degree program. 

At Lakeland, students can choose from on-campus and online learning opportunities, as well as evening classes to accommodate busy schedules. Students who enroll in cooperative education can earn between 12-18 months of work experience, allowing them to earn an income throughout their education and help minimize their debt. Additional paid internships are also available, and Lakeland offers a competitive tuition rate. Lakeland also provides credit for previous learning, reducing the time and money that students need to invest in their degrees.

Gannon University offers a Bachelor of Science/Arts in Biology with Secondary Education program that gives students many different opportunities. The program is also available with a pre-Physician Assistant or pre-Physical Therapy option. Biology majors can participate in two academic travel courses that give students hands-on study opportunities in the Bahamas or Yellowstone National Park. Additionally, students work with faculty on research projects and may choose to join several campus organizations, such as the Beta Beta Beta Biology Honors Society, the Environmental Club, the Chemistry Club, or the Gannon Goes Green Committee.

Founded in 1925, Gannon is a Catholic university that provides students with both professional skills and with a faith-based learning experience. With the main campus in Erie, Pennsylvania, Gannon also has an additional new site in Ruskin, Florida. Students at Gannon can choose from 64 bachelor's degrees, 23 master's degrees, and additional options, including online degrees and doctoral degrees. Over 4,300 students attend Gannon, and they receive over $37 million in financial aid each year.

At Saint Peter's University, the Bachelor of Science in Biology program provides students with an introduction to the major biology branches. Students will receive support from faculty, who help them to select the electives that will support them in their intended careers. Individual research projects also provide an opportunity for students to gain hands-on learning experiences and specialized knowledge. Biology students may also wish to join the university's biology-related student groups, including the Mendel Biology Society, Students Against Violating the Earth, and the TriBeta Biological Honor Society.

Located just minutes from New York City, Saint Peter's University is a Jesuit university that prepares students for their professional careers. This university has established relationships with more than 600 corporate and nonprofit partners, and 65 percent of the university's students have internships. Saint Peter's University offers an impressive 94 percent job placement rate, and the U.S. News & World Report ranked Saint Peter's University as the top New Jersey university for best value in 2019. 

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree that can prepare students for several options upon graduation. Program graduates may decide to pursue a graduate degree, study the health professions, or even move into a career. The program is partnered with SuccessWorks at the College of Letters & Science, which helps to prepare students for their careers by assisting students with cover letters, resumes, and more. Program graduates are in high demand by both employer sand graduate programs as a result.

At UW, undergraduates can choose from 232 majors and certificates and more than 9,200 courses. Twenty-four schools and colleges make up the university, and over 44,000 students attend the university each year. UW is home to almost 900 student organizations, and UW faculty and alumni have won 19 Nobel Prize awards. In 2016, Money Magazine included UW in its ranking of the top universities that produce the most Fortune 500 CEOs. 

Millikin University's Bachelor in Biology program prepares students for careers in the life sciences. During this program, students focus on modern biology and enjoy opportunities to take part in research, internships, and directed studies. Many students have the chance to work as biology department laboratory assistants, giving them firsthand experience in a lab setting. The Leighty-Tabor Science Center opened in 2002 and houses state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories, and a greenhouse.

Founded in 1901 by James Millikin, Millikin University has grown to encompass three professional schools and a liberal arts and sciences school. With a focus in Performance Learning, students at Millikin University learn by experiencing real-world projects that reinforce the lessons they've learned in the classroom. Students have access to many support services that can contribute to their success, including peer tutoring, accessibility services, and the Exploratory Studies program for students without a major. 

Cabrini University's Bachelor of Science in Biology program prepares students for a variety of careers in the allied health fields, as well as for admission into graduate schools. The program provides a foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics, and students gain hands-on laboratory experience. Additionally, students participate in a research project with a faculty mentor, a student teaching experience, or take part in an internship. During a Senior Seminar course, students write a short thesis. 

Cabrini University was founded in 1957 and offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. This Catholic university is home to nearly 2,500 students, including 1,650 undergraduate students. Sixty percent of undergraduates live on campus, and 98 percent of undergraduates receive financial aid. At Cabrini University, students can choose from over 35 majors, minors, and certifications, and they're taught by talented faculty, 92 percent of whom have a doctorate or terminal degrees. The university also has over 50 student clubs, organizations, and honor societies. 

Trine University offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology program that prepares students for careers in a variety of fields, from medicine to forensic science to environmental management and conservation. Students receive a foundation in the classic biology principles and then learn how to apply those learnings to contemporary issues. During the program, students learn modern DNA techniques in gene cloning and use a variety of laboratory equipment. Seniors have the opportunity to participate in research projects. 

Trine University is situated on a 450-acre campus. Over 5,000 students attend the university each year, and classes average just 19 students in size. Of the Class of 2018, 99.7 percent of students were employed or had entered graduate school within six months of graduating from Trine University. Throughout the year, Trine's Distinguished Speaker Series brings guest speakers such as business experts, writers, and award-winning athletes and coaches to campus to complement students' learning experiences. Additionally, Trine University hosts a scholarship gala; this special night has raised more than $3 million for student scholarships in its history.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington's Bachelor of Science in Biology program features a flexible design. Students can work with their advisors to identify their educational goals and to select courses that help them meet those goals. This program can prepare students for careers as well as for graduate study. Program graduates can qualify for many different positions, including working and teaching in the biological sciences. During the program, students are encouraged to engage in research through honors work, independent research projects, and internships. Students may also qualify for student research assistantships. 

UNCW educates nearly 17,000 students every year, offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level programs. The Fall 2018 freshman class had an average high school GPA of 4.22 and an SAT range of 1200-1300. Founded in 1947 as Wilmington College, UNCW became a part of the University of North Carolina System in 1969. The U.S. News & World Report ranked UNCW 14th in its 2019 Best Regional Universities (South) ranking. The Princeton Review also included UNCW in its 2019 Best Colleges: Region by Region ranking.