Shenandoah University

Programme overview

The Bachelor of Science in Biology delivers comprehensive coverage of the biological sciences alongside complementary coursework in chemistry and mathematics. The B.S. pathway is intended for students planning to pursue research-focused graduate study, technical careers in biology, or health‑professional programs. Teaching emphasizes small classes, a 10:1 student–faculty ratio, and experiential learning including laboratory and field studies.

What you'll study

Students complete a set of core biology courses plus electives. Core required courses for either the B.A. or B.S. major are:

• BIO 121 General Biology I (4 credits)
• BIO 122 General Biology II (4 credits)
• BIO 260 Microbiology (4 credits)
• BIO 316 Genetics (3 credits)
• BIO 321 Ecology (4 credits)
• BIO 340 Evolution (3 credits)
• BIO 409 Cell Biology (4 credits)

Beyond these cores, four biology electives are required (total credits vary 11–16 depending on choices). Bachelor of Arts versus Bachelor of Science elective structure differs:

• B.A.: two courses at or above 200 level and two at or above 300 level (for all four courses, up to two credits from BIO 220, BIO 490, BIO 491 or BIO 492 permitted). One >300 level course must include a lab. BIO 201 Medical Terminology may not be used.
• B.S.: one course at or above 200 level and three courses at or above 300 level (same limits on BIO 220/490/491/492 and exclusion of BIO 201). One >300 level course must include a lab; the lab requirement may be met with BIO 491 or BIO 492 (Research Project).

Chemistry requirements differ by degree:

• B.A.: CHEM 121 General Chemistry I (4) and CHEM 122 General Chemistry II (4); one CHEM elective with lab >200 level (4). MATH 207 Statistics is a collateral recommendation.
• B.S.: CHEM 121 General Chemistry I (4), CHEM 122 General Chemistry II (4), and two CHEM electives >300 level (7–8). Required math includes MATH 102 Precalculus II (3) and MATH 207 Statistics (3); Calculus is not required.

The program supports specialized interests including secondary biology education, microbiology and clinical laboratory sciences, field biology, and preparation for health professions such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy and athletic training.

Entry requirements

The source page does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective students should consult the university admissions office or program advisor for up-to-date entry requirements and application procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates enter roles in secondary biology education, environmental education, environmental consulting, public health, hospital laboratories, and research. Alumni also progress to graduate or professional programs and careers as pharmacists, physical therapists, physician assistants, occupational therapists, doctors, medical technologists and laboratory technicians. The program reports that approximately 90 percent of biology students who apply to graduate school are accepted into their chosen programs directly after graduation.

Career examples cited include: Laboratory Manager, Research Scientist, Clinical Research Coordinator, Quality Assurance Manager, High School Science Teacher and Clinical Research Associate. Career & Professional Development offers services such as resume and cover letter assistance, mock interviews and internship support.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The programme page does not list specific scholarships. Students are encouraged to contact the university's financial aid and Career & Professional Development offices to explore merit and need-based funding, internship-supported opportunities, and career services that can improve employability and access to paid experiential learning.