125 credits
required for program
- On Campus
- Minor Available
- PSEO/Early College Online Classes
Investigate connections of living things, from molecules to ecosystems, in a faith-based program. Work with Christ-centered professors on real-world research. Prepare to be confident stepping into the workplace or pursue advanced study in medical and scientific fields.
Biology may be the right degree for you if you
- are interested in research
- are curious about why things work the way they do
- appreciate God’s design in nature
- have an interest in medicine or other scientific fields
- are willing to work hard and passionate about serving
Why study biology at Northwestern?
At Northwestern, you’ll work alongside Christ-centered professors on research projects in their areas of expertise. Small class sizes allow you to learn from and engage with professors and classmates. UNW Biology students can also compete in the Mayo Clinic-sponsored IMPACT research program, study in the Boundary Waters with Northwestern professors, and take advantage of Minnesota’s thriving biology industries. Northwestern also offers the Wildes/Stevens Environmental Science Research Program, a competitive program with a stipend.
The Biology program has multiple tracks
- Cellular and Molecular Biology
- Pre-Medical/Pre-Professional
- General Biology
This degree lays the foundation for careers in medicine, laboratory research, ecology, conservation, and other scientific fields.
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Extend your Biology degree with minors to support these skills!
Health Sciences
The health sciences minor makes applicants to medical school, PA school, and related medical professional programs more attractive by enabling the completion of courses in psychology and other soft sciences as a complement to the primary hard science training in the major.
Health Sciences MinorPsychology
Many psychology, sociology, physics, nutrition, or additional chemistry courses are required by medical school admissions boards and can be made to count as required for the purposes of financial aid.
Psychology MinorEnvironmental Science
Environmental science provides a basis in systems in nature and society. The program will give a flexible background which can be used in a variety of fields.
Environmental Science MinorCareers in biology
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in biology.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Product development
- Industrial quality control
- Technical sales
- Analysis and testing
- Environmental protection and research
- Legal, medical and scientific research
- Food science and research
- Forensic technician
- Aquatic biologist
- Laboratory or blood bank testing/technology
- Botany technician
- Clinical research assistant
- Forestry or park ranger
- Histology or microbiology technician
- Medical school
- Dental school
- Chiropractic school
- Physical Therapy school
- Veterinary school
- Public Health
What will I learn?
You will learn to think critically and perform research while studying cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and ecology.
CHE 3101
Organic Chemistry I
The focus of CHE3101, in one word, is structure. The structures and geometries of carbon-containing molecules, including the topics of isomerism and stereochemistry, are examined in great detail using models and spectroscopic techniques. It is the structure of molecules which enables one to understand chemical reactivity. Types of reactions and mechanisms studied include simple substitution, addition and elimination. A $200 laboratory fee required.
BIO 3246
Genetics
A detailed study of molecular genetics and classical Mendelian inheritance. Molecular topics include DNA structure, prokaryotic and eukaryotic gene expression, mutation, recombinant DNA technology and genomics. A $200 course fee required.
BIO 3157
Human Anatomy
A study of the structure of the cells, tissues and organs of the various organ systems of the human body. Included are the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive, circulator, nervous, endocrine, excretory and reproductive systems. A $200 laboratory fee required.
BIO 1011
Principles of Biology I
A foundational course for science and preprofessional majors that includes introductory molecular and cellular structure and function, cellular and species continuity and introductory physiology. Intended for biochemistry, biology, engineering, health sciences, kinesiology, mathematics education, nursing or physical education majors or coaching minors. A $200 laboratory fee required.
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Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
