The bachelor of science in Biology is designed to provide a broad background in the biological sciences. The degree allows students to become familiar with both the theory and practice of science. It can help prepare students for a variety of careers, including biomedical and environmental sciences. The degree can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of professional programs such as medical, dental or pharmacy schools, or graduate study in the life sciences. Students pursuing the biology degree must select one of the program options listed below.
Meet successful Penn State York graduates with a degree in biology!
General Biology Option
After completing foundation courses in biology, chemistry and physics, students will pursue upper-level academic study in each of the following disciplines: ecology, plant and fungi, evolutionary biology, genetics, animal physiology and practica.
Genetics and Developmental Biology Option
After completing foundation courses in biology, genetics, chemistry and physics, students will pursue upper-level academic study in each of the following disciplines: biochemistry, genetics and developmental biology, evolutionary biology and practica.
Academic Requirements
In order to be eligible for entrance to the biology major, a student must have:
- attained at least a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average;
- completed MATH 140 GQ(4), CHEM 110 GN(3) and BIOL 110 GN(4) with a grade of C or better;
- completed at least one of the following courses, BIOL 220W GN(4), BIOL 230W GN(4) or BIOL 240W GN(4) with a grade of C or better.
A minimum of 124 credits is required for graduation. Students unable to take MATH 140, 141, ENGL 15, BIOL110, and CHEM110, 111 in their freshman year may be required to take summer courses and/or extend their studies beyond eight semesters. The above academic plans may not reflect the course offerings available each semester. Students must work closely with their academic adviser.
Career Opportunities
The bachelor of science in Biology will prepare students for a variety of career opportunities, including biomedical and environmental sciences. Students following the general biology track will be broadly trained and well equipped for jobs in research laboratories, industry, zoos/aquariums/museums, and environmental agencies. The developmental biology and genetics track will prepare students for biomedical and pharmaceutical careers, as well as laboratory and hospital research facilities. Additionally, students can tailor their degree to meet the specific requirements of professional programs such as medical, dental, or pharmacy schools and graduate study in the life sciences.
Undergraduate Research
Opportunities are available for motivated students to become involved in collaborative research activities with science and math faculty members. See Undergraduate Research for descriptions of research activities.
Who Should Enroll
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, an adult beginning college for the first time, or an adult returning to college, you are welcome to apply to the bachelor of science in Biology program. Students may enroll as a first-year student or an advanced standing/transfer student.
