What do you learn as a biology major? At Alfred University, you conduct research and draw conclusions that connect new knowledge to existing knowledge. You learn to articulate principles as they cross boundaries of traditional biological disciplines through effective communication in multiple formats. You also become adept at editing your work for clarity and consistency. Biology core courses may include:
- Cell Biology
- Principles of Genetics
- Structure and Function of Organisms
- Biostatistics
- Community and Systems Biology
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Calculus
- Physics
Each of the concentrations in the BS in Biology program offers courses that cover specific topics. Biology majors complete 16 credit hours within the concentration to earn their degree.
Biological Sciences Concentration
This concentration offers a diverse range of courses for students to select from. You can design your curriculum according to your interests and passions. Some elective courses include:
- Human Pathophysiology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Genetics and Evolution of Populations
- Toxicology
- Botany
- Phage Genomics
- Animal Behavior
- Tropical Biology
- Ecology
- Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
- Animal Physiology
- Immunology
- Bioinformatics
- Biochemistry
- Physiological Plant Ecology
- Biomechanics
- Physiology of Exercise
- Biomedical Materials
- Ecology of the Bahamas
- Herpetology
- Ornithology
View Details on Biological Sciences Concentration
Animal Science Concentration Topics
- Animal Nutrition
- Animal Behavior
- Tropical Biology
- Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
- Animal Physiology
- Herpetology
- Ornithology
View Details on Animal Science Concentration
Human Biology Concentration Topics
- Human Pathophysiology
- Anatomy and Physiology: Nerves Muscles Skeleton
- Anatomy and Physiology: Viscera
- Toxicology
- Phage Genomics
- Immunology
- Biochemistry: Proteins and Metabolism
- Biochemistry: Nucleic Acids
- Biomechanics
- Physiology of Exercise
- Biomedical Materials
View Details on Human Biology Concentration
Molecular Biology Concentration Topics
- Human Pathophysiology
- Toxicology
- Phage Genomics
- Immunology
- Bioinformatics
- Biochemistry: Proteins and Metabolism
- Biochemistry: Nucleic Acids
View Details on Molecular Biology Concentration
Plant Biology and Ecology Concentration Topics
- Botany
- Biochemistry: Proteins and Metabolism
- Biochemistry: Nucleic Acids
- Physiological Plant Ecology
View Details on Plant Biology and Ecology Concentration
All BS in Biology applicants must submit an Alfred University application. Requirements include:
- Official school transcripts
- An essay or personal statement
- At least one letter of recommendation from a school counselor or academic instructor
International students must submit original or certified copies of all secondary and post-secondary transcripts or records of grades to date, along with proof of graduation. These must be prepared and authorized by the student's home institution and be accompanied by a certified English translation.
Learn More About the Undergraduate Application Process
What jobs can you do with a bachelor’s in biology? Graduating from Alfred’s program prepares you for many careers. Potential jobs include:
- Microbiologist
- Pharmacist
- Lab Technician
- Physical Therapist
- Public Health Specialist
- Zookeeper
- Marine Biologist
- Veterinarian
- EMT
- Nutritionist
- Dentist
- Research Technician
- Animal Control Officer
- Biology Teacher
Independent study projects in biology allow you to pose original questions and formulate responses that are research-based, literature-based, or the result of creative endeavors. You are encouraged to have fun with your projects and enjoy the opportunity for in-depth study.
You receive support and guidance from faculty members in developing and carrying out your idea. You present the final project to the Division of Biology and Biochemistry in the form of a thesis, poster, oral presentation, or other acceptable format.
Course Credit
Independent study is taken as either the Independent Study or Internship in Biology course, depending on the degree of independent work.
Funding
Students apply for an Alfred Research Grant for Undergraduate Students (ARGUS) to help fund their projects. Faculty may have other sources of funding to support student work as well.
The Division of Biology and Biochemistry rewards deserving students for their progress, performance, and dedication to the field. Eligible students may qualify for the following awards:
Brenda Bernstein Butner Award in Botany
This award funds outstanding student research projects on native plants and provides a stipend for a semester-long or summer project.
University Advisory Committee for the Health Professions Scholarships
Each year, three merit-based awards are given to a sophomore, junior, and senior interested in animal or human medicine. These students have also demonstrated strong motivation and potential for pursuing a career in a health profession through their academic, extracurricular, and health-related practical experiences.
Diana Mossip Memorial Scholarship
One of our most treasured scholarships is in memory of Diana Mossip. She entered Alfred University in 1994 and was killed in a tragic automobile accident while still a student in 1996. Diana was a National Merit Scholar and a member of the Honors Program. She was majoring in Biology and had planned a career in veterinary medicine. Diana was a member of the Biology Club, assisted with blood drives, and enjoyed living in the Brick Residence Hall.
As an organ donor, Diana gave the gift of life to several people. Her family provides the gift of education by awarding the scholarship annually to two deserving students who plan to pursue careers in veterinary, human, or dental medicine.
The biology double major is available to any Alfred University student. All biology double majors complete a common core and related courses, as well as select 12 credits of specialization courses based on their interests.
All biology double majors must complete all courses with a grade of “C” or better. Transferred courses must have approval from the Division of Biology to receive major credit.
View Details on Biology Double Major
Earning a biology minor requires completing 24 credits. Please choose your courses in consultation with an academic advisor.
View Details on Biology Minor