LAKERS TOGETHER: ‘We can’t wait to meet you.’ One constant is our passion for teaching. Watch a faculty member talk about your learning experience.
Biology, B.A., B.S.
Our mission is to provide an inclusive learning environment, engaging in critical inquiry, extending scientific knowledge and practices to foster energized citizens, and mentor creative, competent professionals in biological and natural resource sciences.
Source: EMSI, 2020
Available as a minor.
Secondary education minor offered.
Program Overview
The biology program prepares students for leading positions in a wide range of careers improving human welfare and environmental stewardship. Students may individualize their degree program by specializing in the following emphases:
- Biomolecular processes
- Ecology and evolutionary biology
- General biology (preprofessional)
- Preveterinary medicine
- Teacher certification
A minor in biology is also available.
Why Study Biology at Grand Valley?
- Personal attention by faculty committed to teaching in all of your courses in our student-centered program.
- Extensive hands-on and project-based learning supported by our student-focused, state-of-the-art teaching, laboratory and field facilities.
- Interaction with faculty possessing a wide range of expertise.
- Opportunities for internships, international and domestic field study, and mentor-guided student research.
- Graduates from the biology program have been highly successful in obtaining employment as well as admission to prestigious graduate and professional programs.
- Regular networking opportunities with faculty, peers, alumni, professional organizations, and industry stakeholders.
Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale
Campus.
- Face To Face
Coursework
A degree in biology includes coursework in:
- Animal and plant biology
- Cell and molecular biology
- Ecology
- Evolution
- Genetics
- Lab and field experience
Career Options
The following are just a few career options for biologists:
- Conservation biologist
- Ecologist or field biologist
- Fisheries or aquatic biologist
- Teacher, university professor
- Zoologist or wildlife biologist
- Laboratory or research technician
- Physician, dentist, PA, genetic counselor
- Environmental/sustainability consultant
A master of science in biology is also available. For details, visit gvsu.edu/grad/biology/.
Combined Degree Programs
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
Skills Employers Want
The B.A. or B.S. in Biology at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual job postings.
- Biology
- Clinical Trials
- Clinical Research
- Pharmaceuticals
- Good Clinical Practices (GPC)
- Auditing
- Biochemical Assays
- Data Management
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
Source: EMSI, 2020
Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Biology Department
gvsu.edu/biology
3300a
Kindschi Hall of Science
(616) 331-2470
“The Biology Department has excellent opportunities available outside of the classroom with faculty members in a wide range of specialties, which can provide very valuable knowledge and experience not normally obtained prior to graduate-level studies.”
COREY KAPOLKA
BIOLOGY ALUMNUS
BIOLOGY ALUMNUS