Colorado State University

What you'll study

The Biology BSc at Colorado State University combines core biological principles with hands-on laboratory and field experience. The curriculum typically covers cellular and molecular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, physiology, and organismal biology, together with required coursework in chemistry, mathematics and statistics. Students choose from elective tracks or concentrations that may include molecular and cellular biology, ecology and organismal biology, evolutionary biology, or interdisciplinary areas such as environmental biology.

• Core modules: introductory biology sequence, cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution and organismal physiology.
• Supporting sciences: general and organic chemistry, calculus or college-level mathematics, and statistics for biology.
• Laboratory and field courses: skills-focused labs in molecular techniques, organismal anatomy, ecological methods and quantitative data analysis; field-based courses take advantage of regional habitats.
• Advanced electives: topics such as microbiology, developmental biology, conservation biology, neurobiology, plant biology, bioinformatics and computational biology.
• Capstone and research: many students complete an undergraduate research project or capstone seminar, working with faculty on original research in campus labs, field stations or partner organisations.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Biology bachelor's programme at Colorado State University is through the university's standard undergraduate admissions process. Typical applicants have a completed secondary school qualification with strong grades in science and mathematics.

• Academic preparation: successful completion of high-school biology and chemistry is expected; applicants are also encouraged to have coursework in mathematics (algebra and precalculus/calculus) and physics where available.
• Standardised tests: Colorado State University has test-optional policies for standardised admissions tests; applicants should check current university guidance and submit test scores only if they strengthen the application.
• Supplementary materials: personal statement, letters of recommendation and evidence of laboratory or field experience (where available) strengthen applications. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and may need to meet specific course equivalency requirements.
• International applicants: must meet university-wide requirements for English language proficiency and provide comparable academic credentials from their school system.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology BSc from Colorado State University move into a wide range of careers or continue to graduate and professional training. The degree provides the scientific foundation and practical skills employers seek in many sectors.

• Research and laboratory science: roles in academic, government or private research laboratories, including technician and research assistant positions.
• Healthcare and allied professions: preparation for professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physician assistant or clinical laboratory science, often following additional prerequisite or graduate-level training.
• Conservation and environmental science: positions in conservation organisations, natural resource management, environmental consulting and park services.
• Biotechnology and industry: employment in biotech, pharmaceutical companies, agricultural firms and quality control or regulatory roles.
• Education and communication: careers in teaching, science outreach, public engagement and policy-related roles that require clear scientific communication.
• Further study: many graduates progress to master's or doctoral programmes in biology, specialised biomedical fields, ecological sciences, or professional degrees.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a Biology programme with strong emphasis on hands-on learning and undergraduate research opportunities. Students benefit from access to modern laboratories, campus field stations and a range of ecosystem types nearby for field study.

• Research opportunities: undergraduates can engage with faculty research groups across molecular biology, ecology, conservation and applied biology, gaining practical laboratory and data-analysis experience.
• Field-based learning: proximity to varied landscapes supports courses and projects that require real-world ecological and environmental research, enhancing practical skills employers value.
• Internships and partnerships: connections with regional agencies, conservation organisations and industry provide internship and experiential learning pathways.
• Support services: academic advising, career services and undergraduate research offices help students plan coursework, secure internships and prepare for graduate or professional programmes.