Ferris State University

What you'll study

The Biology B.S. combines core biological principles with laboratory practice, quantitative methods and opportunities for fieldwork. You will take foundational sequences in general biology, introductory and advanced laboratory courses, and supporting coursework in chemistry and mathematics.

• Core subjects: introductory biology sequences with associated labs, cell biology, genetics and evolution.
• Molecular and biochemical training: molecular biology, biochemistry and laboratory techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis and basic molecular cloning principles.
• Organismal and physiological studies: comparative physiology, animal and plant anatomy, and microbiology.
• Ecology and environmental biology: population and community ecology, conservation biology and field biology courses that use nearby natural areas for hands‑on learning.
• Quantitative and computational skills: biostatistics, experimental design and introductory bioinformatics to support data analysis.
• Capstone and research: senior seminar or an independent research project done under faculty supervision, often presenting results at campus symposia or in regional conferences.
• Electives and concentrations: students can choose electives that emphasise molecular/cellular biology, ecology/environmental science, or pre‑professional preparation (pre‑health and pre‑veterinary pathways).

Practical learning is emphasised through laboratory courses, an active undergraduate research programme, internship placements with regional employers and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on funded projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma (or equivalent). Typical academic preparation includes coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics; schools normally expect candidates to have completed college‑preparatory science and maths in high school. Admissions decisions consider the overall academic record, letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.

• Recommended preparation: high‑school biology, chemistry and algebra or precalculus; prior laboratory experience is advantageous.
• Transfers: transfer students from community colleges are accepted; articulation agreements and transfer advising help students apply previously earned credits toward degree requirements.
• International applicants: must present an equivalent secondary credential and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways.
• Additional requirements: some specialised tracks (for example, teacher certification or certain health‑profession preparations) may have additional prerequisites or professional programme application steps.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Biology programme enter a wide range of careers in industry, government, education and research. The degree provides a solid foundation for immediate employment as well as for graduate or professional study.

• Laboratory technician or research assistant in academic, hospital or commercial laboratories.
• Environmental technician, field biologist or conservation specialist with environmental consultancies, NGOs or government agencies.
• Quality control or product support roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Preparatory route to professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine or physician assistant studies (usually requiring further professional admission).
• Secondary school science teacher (with additional teacher certification) and roles in science communication, sales or regulatory affairs.
• Progression to graduate research programmes (M.S., Ph.D.) in specialised fields including molecular biology, ecology, physiology and bioinformatics.

Career outcomes are supported by faculty mentorship, internship placement assistance and relationships with regional healthcare facilities, environmental organisations and industry partners.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State emphasises applied, career‑oriented learning with accessible faculty and small class sizes in many upper‑level courses. Biology students benefit from modern teaching and research laboratories, field‑based courses that make use of local ecosystems, and a campus culture that supports undergraduate research and internships.

• Hands‑on learning: extensive lab and field components allow students to develop practical technical skills sought by employers.
• Faculty mentorship: opportunities to work closely with faculty on research projects and to receive guidance for graduate and professional school applications.
• Career and internship support: university career services help connect students with internships in healthcare, industry and environmental agencies in the region.
• Flexible pathways: options to tailor studies toward molecular, ecological or pre‑professional goals while meeting general education requirements for a broad education.