Ithaca College

What you'll study

This programme covers core areas of modern biology with opportunities to specialise through elective courses and research. Core topics include cellular and molecular biology, genetics, physiology, ecology and evolution. Students gain practical skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, microscopy, molecular methods and experimental design.

The curriculum typically combines foundational courses (general biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and calculus or statistics) with intermediate and advanced biology classes such as microbiology, molecular genetics, vertebrate physiology, ecology and conservation biology. Many students undertake a senior capstone project or independent research with faculty, and there are options for field courses in the Finger Lakes region and semester‑long lab modules that emphasise hypothesis‑driven investigation.

• Introductory and intermediate biology sequence
• Laboratory courses in molecular biology, microbiology and physiology
• Ecology and field methods, including regional fieldwork
• Quantitative courses: statistics and mathematical methods for biology
• Capstone or independent research project
• Electives in specialised areas such as neurobiology, developmental biology, biotechnology and conservation

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or recognised secondary qualification. Strong preparation in science and mathematics is expected: recommended courses include biology, chemistry and algebra or higher mathematics. Admissions decisions consider academic record, letters of recommendation, a personal statement and co‑curricular activities that demonstrate interest in science.

For international applicants, an equivalent secondary school credential and evidence of English language proficiency are required (for example recognised tests or institutional evidence). Specific placement in first‑year science and math courses may be determined by placement tests or prior coursework. Prospective students planning healthcare or graduate study should aim to complete preparatory coursework in chemistry, physics and mathematics during high school where possible.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Biology from Ithaca College pursue a wide range of careers or further study. Common entry‑level roles include laboratory technician, research assistant, environmental field technician, biological science analyst and positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical support. Graduates also move into clinical careers (with appropriate additional qualifications) such as medicine, physician assistant or allied health professions.

The degree also prepares students for postgraduate study — masters and doctoral programmes in biological sciences, as well as professional schools (medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine). Transferable skills such as experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication and teamwork are valued across industry, education, government and non‑profit sectors.

Why study at Ithaca College

Ithaca College offers a personalised, experiential learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring. Biology students benefit from modern teaching laboratories, opportunities for undergraduate research, and fieldwork in the Finger Lakes ecosystem. The college’s location near Cornell University and a regional network of research institutions and environmental organisations creates extra opportunities for collaboration, internships and cross‑registration.

The college emphasises career preparation through internship programmes, practicum placements and a career services centre that supports résumé building, interview preparation and graduate school advising. For students seeking an undergraduate education that combines rigorous biological training with practical experience and close faculty support, Ithaca College provides a focused environment to launch scientific and professional careers.