Learn about the microscopic to the magnificent in a flexible, personalized program.
Some of the most in-demand and rewarding professions today are rooted in the life sciences: biotechnology, healthcare, renewable energy, agriculture and conservation, to name a few. Majoring in biology gives you the knowledge and transferable skills for careers in these fields and more, and it also can lay the foundation for graduate or medical school for those wishing to become a physician or physician assistant.
growth expected for medical scientists through 2028 (BLS)
Growth expected for community health education/workers through 2028 (BLS)
Labs don’t always have walls.
Live off the grid in the Appalachians. Look for wildlife in the Rockies. Work alongside physicians in Haiti to provide healthcare services to the poor. Your experience as a biology major at University of Saint Francis will give you plenty of opportunities to put learning into practice and the flexibility to focus on what you love most about the life sciences. Our supportive professors get to know you, your passions and career interests to ensure you’re taking courses and participating in real-world learning experiences that align with your goals.
A comprehensive, personalized curriculum gives you a strong foundation in the biological sciences; and lab work, research, and team projects build your communication and collaboration skills. Rooted in Franciscan values, your entire USF academic experience will shape you into an ethical, compassionate professional ready to make a difference in the medical or scientific communities.
When you become a biology major at USF, you can:
Explore & Experience the World Through Travel Opportunities
Travel with your professor and peers to places like Costa Rica, Haiti, Colorado, Utah and the Appalachian Mountains, where you will gain a deeper understanding of ecology, geology, marine biology, wildlife and community health.
Engage with Experts at Weekly Science Seminars
Hear from and be inspired by local scientists, researchers, medical professionals and other experts at weekly seminars open to all students.
Get Into the Field with Internships & Activities
Gain professional experience through internships with healthcare, veterinary, environmental and other companies. And, many of your classes will take you outdoors to prairies and other natural areas near campus.
Inside the Achatz Hall of Science, you will learn in state-of-the-art labs that mirror those you’ll find in professional settings, such as:
Our biology professors have expertise in every imaginable area of the life sciences, from genetics and geology to invertebrates and immunology.
Be active. Be purposeful. Participate in the Eco Club, a student organization that focuses on environmental issues on campus and in the local community. You’ll be part of a close-knit group of students who organize education and awareness activities like Earth Day, build brush piles for wildlife or work in our campus greenhouse.
As a biology major at USF, you might also have an interest in these campus groups:
USF not only challenged me academically, but it really helped me grow as a person. I learned about myself and the ways I can use my education to help the world. One pivotal experience was going on a medical mission trip to Haiti. The overall experience was eye-opening. It made me even more excited about my career and my ability to help people.
Elizabeth Meyer ’19
With a biology degree, jobs and career options are varied and plentiful. USF biology majors are prepared for positions in healthcare, education, agriculture, environmental agencies, recreation, social services and more.
Many biology students pursue graduate and medical school to ultimately work as physicians, dentists, veterinarians, physician assistants, wildlife biologists, educators, clinical laboratory scientists, conservation biologists and other science professionals.
You will find USF biology majors at companies and organizations such as:
Our biology majors have been accepted to medical, professional, or graduate school programs at institutions such as:
Your first step to becoming a USF Cougar is applying for admission. Our online application makes the process as convenient as possible.
Apply NowWhether you know what you want to see, who you want to meet or are just exploring your options, we will personalize your campus visit to fit your needs.
Visit USFAn academic plan is a general blueprint showing how one might complete the degree, semester by semester. Get an idea on what each semester could look like.