Eastern Mennonite University

What you'll study

The Biology major combines foundational coursework in cellular and organismal biology with laboratory, field, and research experiences. Core coursework typically includes General Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology, each paired with laboratory work. Students also study supporting subjects such as Chemistry (general and organic or biochemistry), Mathematics or Statistics, and Physics to ensure quantitative and analytical skills.

Key components of the programme include:

• Introductory sequences — general biology courses that introduce concepts in structure, function, evolution and diversity.
• Core organismal and molecular courses — cell biology, genetics, molecular techniques and physiology which build laboratory competencies.
• Ecology and field biology — courses that make use of the Shenandoah Valley and nearby natural areas for field methods, biodiversity studies and conservation work.
• Research and capstone — independent or faculty-mentored research projects and a senior capstone or thesis emphasise experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Electives and special topics — options in areas such as developmental biology, immunology, wildlife biology, plant biology, bioinformatics, or environmental science, allowing students to tailor the degree to interests and career goals.
• Professional preparation — courses or modules in scientific ethics, biostatistics, and communication plus opportunities for internships, community-based projects, and study abroad.

Entry requirements

Admission to EMU’s undergraduate Biology programme is through the university’s standard undergraduate application process. Typical preparation includes a high school diploma or equivalent with solid academic achievement in sciences and mathematics. Recommended preparatory subjects are biology, chemistry, algebra/pre-calculus, and English.

Specific materials usually required for admission include a completed application, official school transcripts, and personal statements or essays. EMU may consider standardised test scores where provided but emphasises a holistic review of academic preparation, recommendations and extracurricular engagement. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for evaluation of prior credit.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology degree from EMU enter a wide range of career paths. Common trajectories include:

• Progression to graduate or professional programmes — MS/PhD in biological sciences, medical, veterinary, dental or physician assistant programmes.
• Laboratory and technical roles — research technician, laboratory assistant or roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Field and conservation work — wildlife or conservation technician, environmental consultant, natural resource management with state or federal agencies and NGOs.
• Education and outreach — secondary science teaching (often followed by teacher certification), museum or park education, and community science programmes.
• Public health and regulatory roles — positions in public health departments, environmental health, or laboratory regulation and quality control.

EMU’s emphasis on undergraduate research, internships and community engagement helps students build practical experience and professional networks that support job placement or applications to advanced study.

Why study at Eastern Mennonite University

EMU combines a liberal-arts environment with hands-on scientific training. The university’s small class sizes mean close faculty mentoring, particularly valuable in laboratory courses and research projects. Biology students benefit from accessible faculty who supervise independent research, practicum placements, and capstone projects.

The campus setting in the Shenandoah Valley provides ready access to diverse ecosystems for field biology and environmental studies. In addition, EMU emphasises values of community-engaged learning, ethical reflection and service, offering opportunities to apply biological knowledge in community health, conservation and sustainability projects. These features make the programme suitable for students seeking rigorous scientific preparation within a collaborative, mission-driven undergraduate setting.