University of Missouri

What you'll study

The Biology programme combines foundational coursework in cellular and molecular biology, genetics and ecology with hands-on laboratory classes and opportunities for field study and independent research. Core topics typically include cell structure and function, molecular genetics, evolution, physiology, developmental biology, microbiology and ecology. Students also take complementary courses in chemistry, biochemistry, mathematics/statistics and physics to build quantitative and laboratory skills.

Undergraduates choose coursework to suit their interests and career goals, with common pathways focusing on cellular/molecular biology, organismal and physiological biology, ecology and evolution, and science education. Many students undertake a senior capstone experience such as a research thesis, directed research project or advanced laboratory seminar. Practical learning experiences include laboratory techniques courses, organismal dissections, ecological field methods, computational biology modules and participation in faculty-led research groups at campus research centres.

Electives and experiential options may include internships with industry, healthcare settings or environmental organisations; study abroad field biology programs; and interdisciplinary classes at the Bond Life Sciences Center and other research institutes on campus. Academic advising supports selection of upper-level electives to prepare for either employment after graduation or admission to professional and graduate programmes.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong preparation in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes high-school biology and chemistry, and at least one year of mathematics; familiarity with algebra and introductory statistics is recommended and calculus is advantageous for some advanced topics.

Admissions consider a combination of academic record, coursework rigor and supporting materials such as a personal statement. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college-level coursework completion and credit transferability. International applicants must meet the university's language proficiency requirements and demonstrate comparable secondary qualifications. Prospective students are encouraged to contact departmental or faculty advisors to review how their prior coursework aligns with programme prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Biology programme pursue a wide range of careers. Many enter employment as research technicians, laboratory assistants, environmental consultants, biological field technicians, or quality-control staff in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Others progress to graduate study (MSc/PhD) in fields such as molecular biology, ecology, physiology or bioinformatics, or to professional schools in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine and allied health.

Additional career paths include high-school science teaching (often following state teacher certification), science communication and outreach, conservation and natural resource management, regulatory and public-health roles, and positions in government and non-profit organisations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for careers that combine biology with business, policy or data science when paired with suitable electives or postgraduate qualifications.

Why study at University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers a strong, research-active environment with accessible faculty mentorship and numerous opportunities for undergraduate research through campus centres such as the Bond Life Sciences Center. Students benefit from well-equipped teaching and research laboratories, field courses and partnerships with local hospitals, government agencies and industry for internships and applied projects.

The university provides dedicated pre-health and career advising to help students plan pathways to professional school or the job market, as well as programmes to support undergraduate research, scholarship applications and experiential learning. With a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum and a collaborative campus community, the University of Missouri is well suited to students seeking a rigorous biology education that prepares them for diverse scientific careers or further study.