125 credits
required for program
- On Campus
- Minor Available
- PSEO/Early College Online Classes
Explore a Biology degree: careers, core courses, labs, internships, and grad study options.
Biology may be the right degree for you if you
- are interested in research
- are curious about why things work the way they do
- appreciate God’s design in nature
- have an interest in medicine or other scientific fields
- are willing to work hard and passionate about serving
Why study biology at Northwestern?
At Northwestern, you’ll work alongside Christ-centered professors on research projects in their areas of expertise. Small class sizes allow you to learn from and engage with professors and classmates. UNW Biology students can also compete in the Mayo Clinic-sponsored IMPACT research program, study in the Boundary Waters with Northwestern professors, and take advantage of Minnesota’s thriving biology industries. Northwestern also offers the Wildes/Stevens Environmental Science Research Program, a competitive program with a stipend.Our Biology degree integrates a biblical worldview while still preparing for graduate school or immediate employment.
The Biology program has multiple tracks
- B.A. in Biology
- B.S. in Biology
- B.S. in Biology with a concentration in pre-medical/pre-professional
This degree lays the foundation for careers in medicine, laboratory research, ecology, conservation, and other scientific fields.
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I have loved my time in the Biochemistry Department at UNW! The professors truly invest themselves into my learning, and show that they truly care about my success in and outside of the classroom. I have learned critical thinking techniques along with other skills that will be critical for my career in the medical field. Everyone in the department is full of knowledge and have connections to the outside world for jobs outside of academia. They are always willing to help you with your future goals! I am thankful that even in science, I can learn how God is integrated into everything.
4-Year Degree Planner
*PSEO students should connect with their advisors about developing degree pathways.
Extend your Biology degree with minors to support these skills!
Health Sciences
The health sciences minor makes applicants to medical school, PA school, and related medical professional programs more attractive by enabling the completion of courses in psychology and other soft sciences as a complement to the primary hard science training in the major.
Health Sciences MinorPsychology
Many psychology, sociology, physics, nutrition, or additional chemistry courses are required by medical school admissions boards and can be made to count as required for the purposes of financial aid.
Psychology MinorEnvironmental Science
Environmental science provides a basis in systems in nature and society. The program will give a flexible background which can be used in a variety of fields.
Environmental Science MinorCareers in biology
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a biology degree. Roles include laboratory technologist, clinical research assistant, environmental analyst, public health specialist, and more. These careers can also lead to graduate school or professional programs.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Product development
- Industrial quality control
- Technical sales
- Analysis and testing
- Environmental protection and research
- Legal, medical and scientific research
- Food science and research
- Forensic technician
- Aquatic biologist
- Laboratory or blood bank testing/technology
- Botany technician
- Clinical research assistant
- Forestry or park ranger
- Histology or microbiology technician
- Medical school
- Dental school
- Chiropractic school
- Physical Therapy school
- Veterinary school
- Public Health
What will I learn?
You will learn to think critically and perform research while studying cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and ecology.
CHE3101
Organic Chemistry I
The focus of CHE3101, in one word, is structure. The structures and geometries of carbon-containing molecules, including the topics of isomerism and stereochemistry, are examined in great detail using models and spectroscopic techniques. It is the structure of molecules which enables one to understand chemical reactivity. Types of reactions and mechanisms studied include simple substitution, addition and elimination. Three lectures and one lab per week.
BIO3246
Genetics
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of classical Mendelian genetics and population genetics, with foundational coverage of molecular mechanisms to support inheritance studies. Topics include inheritance patterns, linkage and mapping, quantitative traits, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, with applications in human health, agriculture, and conservation. Students will engage in problem-solving, data analysis, and ethical discussions to understand genetic variation and its role in populations. Three lectures and one lab per week.
BIO3157
Human Anatomy
A study of the structure of the cells, tissues and organs of the various organ systems of the human body. Included are the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive, circulator, nervous, endocrine, excretory and reproductive systems. Three lectures and one lab per week.
BIO1011
Principles of Biology: Cells, Genes & Energy
A foundational course for science and preprofessional majors that includes introductory molecular and cellular structure and function, cellular and species continuity and introductory physiology. Intended for biochemistry, biology, engineering, health sciences, kinesiology, mathematics education, nursing or physical education majors or coaching minors. A $200 laboratory fee required.
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Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
