Biology (BS)

Why Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Indiana State?

Studying biological sciences deepens our understanding of life's fundamental processes, from genetics to ecology to biotechnology. As a biology major at Indiana State, you will explore the intricate web of life from the molecular level up to whole organisms, entire ecosystems, and the biosphere. You will also gain insight into important topics in biology, including disease, gene therapy, climate change, and biodiversity loss.  

Study Organisms and Their Interactions

With today’s advances in research and technology, there is greater understanding than ever before about organisms and their interactions with each other and with the environment. As a biology major at Indiana State University, you will study organisms and their molecular and cellular components to develop knowledge of cellular and molecular biology, genetics and genomics, microbiology, immunology, developmental biology, biotechnology, ecology, conservation, plant biology, and physiology. Laboratory classes, research projects, and field activities will enhance your learning experience.

Learn from Our Excellent Faculty

Indiana State's instructors work one-on-one with students. They encourage you to begin your research into biological sciences in your first year. Our small class sizes give you the chance to work with your professors as they help you conduct research that you may present at scientific meetings or see published in scientific journals.

Your instructors will also encourage you to participate in other activities and organizations, including Indiana State’s chapter of the Tri-Beta Biology Honorary Society and the Fish and Wildlife Club.

Conduct Research in Our Labs

Our on-campus laboratory centers for biological sciences include the Center for Genomic Advocacy, with equipment for sequencing genomes; the Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and Conservation, which conducts research on bats and hosts public outreach programs; the Indiana University School of Medicine-Terre Haute, located on Indiana State’s campus; a greenhouse space; and other on-campus laboratory facilities that emphasize hands-on learning and research activity.   

What You'll Learn in the Biology Program

The BS in biology provides a dynamic foundation in biological sciences. Coursework combines fundamental topics in biology with content in medicine, bioinformatics, genomics, biotechnology, environmental and wildlife management, conservation, and other research. You can complete our biology bachelor’s degree in four years of full-time study.

Specific courses include biological sciences and laboratory experiences in the principles of biology; cellular and microbial biology (with molecular biology); ecology and evolution; general physiology; and general genetics (with molecular biology). You will choose an area of emphasis for elective courses, selecting from: cell and molecular biology; microbiology; molecular biology and biotechnology; organismal and conservation biology; physiology; and plant biology.

Most courses include a laboratory component. These range from basic chemistry through physiology and molecular techniques. 

Career Possibilities for Biology Majors

Our graduates are prepared for careers in government agencies, industry, medicine, research, teaching, or business. Many also continue their education in graduate or professional programs, including medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, or veterinary medicine.

The demand for biology fields is growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects fast growth rates in a variety of biology and life sciences occupations including:

• Agricultural and food science technicians: 5%
• Biochemists and biophysicists: 7% 
• Biological technicians: 5% 
• Epidemiologists: 27% 
• Genetic counselors: 16%
• Medical scientists: 1%
• Microbiologists: 5% 
• Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists: 3%

Accreditation

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.