Degree Programs
Why Biology at Valpo?
Grounded in scientific exploration, we radiate boundless discovery. In Valpo’s biology program, hands-on experiences take your learning far beyond the classroom. Lab courses in state-of-the-art facilities illuminate topics from molecular biology to environmental science. Fieldwork at the nearby Indiana Dunes National Park – known for its biological diversity – allows students to explore rare ecosystems firsthand. If you’re pursuing a career in health sciences, our cadaver lab and rigorous classes in human physiology provide a strong foundation for medical school and healthcare roles.
Guided by our dedicated faculty, students find their path with personalized career advising and opportunities to participate in active research. With Valpo’s five biology degree pathways, students can tailor their education based on their interests and career aspirations. Our biology program also offers interdisciplinary minors in forensic science and neurobiology that are complemented with studies in chemistry and psychology. Whether you’re interested in pursuing graduate studies or stepping right away into a job in the sciences, Valpo’s biology major prepares you for a spectrum of illuminating career possibilities.
Biology Highlights
100%
of biology students engage in hands-on learning experiences, from lab classes and research projects to internships and service work.
Research Opportunities
All Valpo’s biology faculty members have active research projects, with opportunities for students to get involved. Students can also apply for our selective research intensive concentration degree.
Expert Mentorship
Faculty advisors work closely with our biology students to support their goals — whether they aspire to enter medical school, a graduate program, or a career in the scientific workforce.
Biology Major Requirements
Biology students can choose either a bachelor of arts degree or a bachelor of science degree. Both require 124 credits of general education requirements, which students can fulfill through a range of liberal arts classes. During the first year, all students take Valparaiso University Experience (VUE) courses, designed to encourage the growth of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills for a well-rounded background.
Valpo offers five biology degree pathways, allowing students to customize their coursework to their unique interests and career goals. Nearly all biology courses have a laboratory component. Our degree programs include:
- Bachelor of science in biology (41 credit hours) – This degree provides rigorous training to prepare students for graduate study in biology and careers in the life sciences.
- Bachelor of science in biology, research intensive concentration (38 credit hours) – This highly selective program is designed for students who plan to apply to graduate programs in biology. It requires six semesters of research and an additional course, Introduction to Biological Research.
- Bachelor of science in biology (35 credit hours) – This pathway provides a solid foundation in biology for students with a broad range of interests. The degree must be paired with either a second major in a non-science discipline, a second major in environmental science, or one of the specific minor options.
- Bachelor of science in biology (31 credit hours) – This program is designed for students pursuing a second major in a scientific discipline, such as chemistry or psychology. Many students pursuing careers in health professions choose this degree.
- Bachelor of arts in biology (31 credit hours) – This degree offers a broad background in basic biology for students with a second major in any discipline, including humanities or social sciences.
To earn a bachelor of science in biology (35 credit hours), major requirements include:
| Major Requirements: Minimum 35 Credits | ||
|---|---|---|
| BIO 101 | First Year Seminar: Biology at Valpo | 1 Cr. |
| BIO 171 | Unity of Life | 4 Cr. |
| BIO 172 | Diversity of Life | 4 Cr. |
| BIO 201 | Second Year Seminar: Biology in the Community | 1 Cr. |
| BIO 270 | Genetics and Genome Evolution | 4 Cr. |
| BIO 301 | Third Year Seminar: Biology in Society | 1 Cr. |
| BIO 401 | Fourth Year Seminar: Biology in Your Career | 2 Cr. |
| Two courses from BIO 290 to BIO 380 | ||
| Two courses from BIO 420 to BIO 490 | ||
| Four credits from BIO 290 to BIO 498 | ||
| Additional Required Courses: | ||
| Two semesters of general chemistry and one semester of organic chemistry | ||
| Please see the description of the Bachelor of Science requirements for more information. | ||
Biology Career Outcomes
Careers for biology graduates are as diverse as the biological world itself. With a biology degree, you can go on to shine in research, healthcare, teaching, policymaking, and more. The career outlook is bright, with jobs in the sciences projected to grow nationally, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some of the fastest-growing jobs include forensic science technicians and agricultural and food scientists, expected to increase by 14% and 8% respectively through 2033. Many Valpo biology students also pursue advanced training, succeeding in graduate programs and professional schools after graduation.
Careers in Biology:
- Biologist
- Dentist
- Environmental scientist
- Epidemiologist
- Food scientist
- Forensic scientist
- Laboratory technician
- Medical scientist
- Physician
- Science teacher
