Canisius University

What you'll study

The Biology degree provides a foundation in core biological principles and the laboratory and analytical skills needed for modern biology. The curriculum typically includes introductory and intermediate courses in cellular and molecular biology, genetics, ecology, evolutionary biology and organismal biology, alongside complementary studies in chemistry, physics and mathematics.

• Core laboratory courses — Introductory biology labs, molecular biology techniques, microbiology lab, and advanced lab courses that emphasise experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing.
• Genetics and molecular topics — Courses in Mendelian and molecular genetics, genomics and biotechnology applications.
• Ecology and organismal biology — Ecology, conservation biology, animal physiology, plant biology and field-based studies that may include local ecosystem work.
• Supporting sciences — General and organic chemistry, physics, and calculus or statistics to support quantitative reasoning and laboratory research.
• Capstone and research — Students complete a senior capstone, practicum or independent research project under faculty supervision; many take part in faculty-led research groups.
• Electives and concentrations — Elective options allow focus on areas such as molecular biology, ecology and conservation, pre-health preparation, or secondary education. Internships and community-based placements are encouraged.
• Liberal arts curriculum — As part of Canisius’s liberal arts approach, students also study humanities and social sciences, enhancing communication, ethics and critical thinking abilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma (or equivalent) with preparation in college-preparatory subjects. Recommended secondary-school courses include biology, chemistry and mathematics, as well as English. Canisius considers academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay as part of a holistic admissions process.

• Academic record — A strong record in science and mathematics courses is important. Specific GPA expectations vary by applicant pool.
• Standardised tests — Test-score policies may be flexible or test-optional; check the university’s current guidance if you plan to submit SAT or ACT scores.
• Transfer and international students — Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts showing college-level coursework. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.
• Additional materials — Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes an interview can strengthen an application, particularly for competitive placements or scholarship consideration.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology bachelor’s degree from Canisius University move into a wide range of careers or continue on to graduate and professional programmes. Common paths include laboratory technician roles, positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, environmental and conservation agencies, and roles in public health.

• Health professions — Many students pursue further training for careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physician assistant programmes or other allied health fields. Pre-health advising and prerequisite coursework are available.
• Research and industry — Opportunities in research laboratories, quality control, product development and technical support in industry.
• Environmental and field work — Roles in environmental consulting, wildlife and conservation organisations, natural resource management and environmental education.
• Education and communication — Teaching at the secondary level (with appropriate certification), science outreach, and science communication roles.
• Graduate study — Alumni frequently progress to graduate programmes (MSc/PhD) in the biological sciences, ecology, biomedical research or related interdisciplinary fields.

Why study at Canisius University

Canisius offers a student-centred learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits hands-on laboratory learning and research supervision. The university’s Jesuit liberal arts tradition emphasises critical thinking, ethical reasoning and service, providing broad preparation beyond technical skills.

• Undergraduate research — Students have access to faculty-led research projects and laboratory resources, often presenting work at regional conferences.
• Experiential learning — Internships, community partnerships and field experiences in the Buffalo region and beyond help students build practical skills and professional networks.
• Pre-health support — Dedicated advising and preparation resources for students aiming for professional health programmes.
• Location and community — Canisius’s location provides access to local hospitals, research institutions and environmental sites for internships and collaborative projects.