Florida State University

What you'll study

The Biology degree combines core coursework in the major areas of modern biology with laboratory and field experience. Lower-division classes provide grounding in general biology, chemistry and mathematics; upper-division modules specialise in areas such as cell and molecular biology, genetics, physiology, ecology and evolution.

• Core topics: cellular structure and function, genetics, organismal biology, ecology, evolution and scientific methods.
• Laboratory and practical work: hands-on labs in molecular techniques, microscopy, physiology and ecology, plus statistical analysis and experimental design.
• Specialist options: advanced courses in microbiology, developmental biology, neurobiology, conservation biology, plant biology and bioinformatics, allowing students to tailor the degree to their interests.
• Research and field experience: opportunities to join faculty-led research projects, work in campus laboratories, or take part in field courses and internships with regional environmental organisations and healthcare providers.
• Capstone and electives: senior seminars, independent research projects or internships are commonly used to synthesise learning and prepare for graduate study or employment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school record with substantial preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Typical preparation includes courses in biology and chemistry, and additional study in mathematics and physics is advantageous.

• High-school applicants: competitive academic performance in science and maths subjects; specific grade expectations vary and are reviewed during admission.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications are required; proof of English proficiency is normally necessary where the applicant’s first language is not English.
• Transfer students: college-level coursework in introductory biology and chemistry is usually required for transfer consideration; transfer credit policies are applied on a course-by-course basis.
• Additional considerations: relevant extracurricular experience, such as laboratory work, volunteer service in healthcare or environmental projects, or summer research, can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology bachelor’s from Florida State University enter a wide range of careers. Many go on to graduate or professional programmes (master’s, PhD, medical, dental or other health professions), while others move directly into the workforce.

• Research and industry: laboratory technician roles, research assistant positions in academia, government or private-sector biotech and pharmaceutical companies.
• Healthcare and allied professions: a common pathway is further professional training for careers in medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, physician associate roles or clinical laboratory science.
• Environmental and conservation roles: positions with environmental consultancies, conservation NGOs, state and federal agencies, and wildlife management organisations.
• Education and communication: secondary school teaching (with appropriate certification), science outreach, museum and aquarium education roles, and science writing or policy work.
• Further study: preparation for specialised graduate programmes in fields such as molecular biology, ecology, microbiology, bioinformatics and public health.

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University offers a large, research-active biology department within a major public research university, providing access to diverse faculty expertise and laboratory facilities. Students benefit from close faculty supervision on research projects and a range of experiential learning options.

• Research opportunities: undergraduate students can join faculty labs, participate in independent research projects and present at university symposia.
• Facilities and field access: campus laboratories and regional field sites support practical and field-based learning, and partnerships with local organisations enhance internship prospects.
• Support and pathways: dedicated academic advising, career services and pre-professional advising help students plan for graduate study or careers after graduation.
• Community and campus life: a vibrant student community with clubs and societies related to biology, conservation and health professions provides networking and leadership opportunities.