Fairmont State University

What you'll study

The Biology programme emphasises core biological principles alongside practical laboratory and field skills. You will study cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, physiology, ecology and evolution, supported by chemistry and mathematics courses. Course work typically moves from foundational lectures and labs to more specialised seminars and upper-level electives.

• Core subjects: General Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution, Microbiology, Animal and Plant Physiology.
• Supporting sciences: General and Organic Chemistry, Calculus or Statistics, Physics (as required by selected tracks).
• Laboratory and field work: Hands-on laboratories in molecular techniques, organismal anatomy and ecology; supervised field trips and field-based research projects.
• Electives and concentrations: Students can typically choose electives in areas such as molecular biology, environmental biology, conservation, biotechnology, or pre-health preparation. Many programmes offer a secondary education track for students planning to become biology teachers.
• Capstone and research: Opportunities for independent research or a senior capstone project under faculty supervision, plus internship placements with regional employers or agencies.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor's in Biology normally requires a high-school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes courses in biology, chemistry and mathematics. Specific entry expectations often include:

• Strong performance in high-school science and mathematics courses (biology and chemistry recommended).
• Submission of official transcripts from secondary education; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts for prior coursework.
• Standardised test requirements, if any, follow the university's general undergraduate admissions policy—applicants should check current guidance from Fairmont State University.
• Some special pathways (honours, teacher education) may require a minimum GPA and faculty approval or completion of prerequisite courses before progression to upper-level biology classes.

Career prospects

Graduates with a biology degree from Fairmont State University pursue a range of career paths in the public and private sectors as well as further study. Common destinations include:

• Research assistant or laboratory technician roles in academic, industrial or government laboratories.
• Environmental and conservation positions with consulting firms, non-profits, state and federal agencies.
• Employment in biotechnology, pharmaceutical or medical device companies in roles such as quality control, regulatory support or production support.
• Health-related careers: many graduates use the degree as preparation for professional programmes in medicine, dentistry, physician assistant studies, or other allied health fields (applicants typically complete prerequisite courses and relevant clinical experience).
• Secondary school science teaching, particularly for those who complete a teacher education concentration and certification requirements.
• Further academic study at the master’s or doctoral level in specialised biological sciences.

Why study at Fairmont State University

Fairmont State University offers a supportive, student-focused environment with small class sizes that allow close interaction with faculty. The Biology programme emphasises experiential learning—students gain practical skills through laboratories, fieldwork and research projects that prepare them for careers or graduate study. The university’s regional connections provide internship and employment opportunities with local healthcare providers, environmental agencies and industry partners. Additionally, advising and career services help students plan professional or academic pathways, whether entering the workforce, pursuing certification in teaching, or applying to professional schools.