Messiah College

Programme overview

The Bachelor of Science in Biology combines core biology coursework with optional concentrations in biomedical biology or organismal biology. Students may also complete the major without a concentration or add a secondary teaching certification with minimal additional coursework. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, travel courses, directed research and integration of scientific study with Christian faith.

What you'll study

Core and elective courses prepare students for careers or graduate study in biological fields. Concentration options allow deeper focus in biomedical or organismal areas. Laboratory and practical training include use of phase contrast and fluorescence microscopes, mammalian tissue culture facilities, and real-time PCR instruments to analyze cultures and manipulate molecules. The curriculum supports travel-based study and directed research projects, including collaborative malaria/AIDS research at Macha Mission Hospital in Zambia with Johns Hopkins.

Entry requirements

The programme page does not list specific admission criteria. Prospective applicants should consult Messiah University admissions for standard undergraduate entry requirements and prerequisite coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates enter diverse paths: employment in research labs, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, environmental and conservation organisations, clinical and diagnostic settings, or continued study in graduate and professional schools (including medical and public health programs). The department notes strong internship placements (e.g., NIH, Nature Conservancy, Penn State Hershey) and that more than two-thirds of graduating seniors score above the national average on the ETS Field Test in Biology.

Scholarships & funding angle

Messiah reports that 100% of first-year students receive financial aid. The programme also directs students to the university Career and Professional Development Center for support in securing internships and planning post-graduation steps.