Undergraduate Programs
Biology
Biology Fundamentals
Biology is the fastest-growing science today - its impact is carried to many fronts - medicine and health care; the environment and climate changes; global population and food sources.
- Core courses provide the fundamentals of modern biology
- Experience a variety of fields before choosing a specialty, such as:
- ecology and evolution
- microbiology
- animal physiology
- zoology
Professional Preparation
- Coursework will prepare you for professional schools, such as medical, dental, veterinary and pharmacy, or to teach high school biology.
- A bachelor of arts option is available to combine biology studies with social sciences and humanities.
Integrated Approach to Experimentation
We cross traditional boundaries between subdisciplines, from the cellular to the ecosystem level. This cutting-edge research forms the basis for much of our teaching.
Our Faculty
- are innovative and interactive
- win teaching awards
- use multimedia technology to enhance classroom learning
Akron Advantage
Hands-on Research
The Department of Biology offers an array of research experiences.
- newly constructed, live-animal facility
- molecular biology center, including an automated DNA sequencer
- computer laboratory
- 400-acre nature preserve with a mixture of habitats
Real-word Experience
Gain practical professional experience through UA's optional cooperative education program. Through co-op, you’ll alternate semesters of work and school while earning a competitive salary.
Recent Placements Include:
- Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
- Ohio Nature Conservancy
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources
- Cleveland Zoo
Biology Student Organizations
Interact with other biology students and professionals in the field through organizations such as:
- Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society
- Biology Club
- Future Physician’s Club
Sample Curriculum
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology| First Year: |
|
Third Year: | |
| English Composition I, II | 7 | Intermediate Foreign Language I, II |
6 |
| Principles of Biology I, II, Labs | 8 | Cell and Molecular Biology |
4 |
| Principles of Chemistry I, II, Lab | 7 | Biology electives |
9 |
| College Algebra | 4 | General electives |
13-16 |
| Precalculus Mathematics | 4 |
Total |
32-35 |
| Qualitative Analysis | 2 |
Fourth Year: | |
| Total | 32 |
Biology electives |
9 |
| General electives |
20 |
||
| Second Year: |
Total | 29 |
|
| General Genetics, Lab |
4 | ||
| Evolutionary Biology |
3 |
Optional areas of specialization in the bachelor of science degree program: |
|
| Organic Chemistry I, Lab, Discussion |
5 | Botany |
|
| Beginning Foreign Language I, II |
8 |
Ecology/Evolution |
|
| General Ecology |
3 |
Microbiology |
|
| Organic Chemistry II, Lab, Discussion |
5 |
Animal Physiology |
|
| Physical Education/Wellness |
1-3 |
Zoology |
|
| Social Science requirement |
3-4 |
||
| Total | 32-35 |
||
For More Information:
Request information from Undergraduate Admissions
Career Opportunities
Degrees and Preparation
A degree in biology paves the way to many careers in research and development, especially in such areas as medicine, health care and biotechnology. Entry-level positions in biology require at least a bachelor’s degree; research positions typically require an M.S. or Ph.D. degree.
Possible positions with a bachelor's degree:
- technical sales and service people, research assistants, laboratory technicians, or medical laboratory staff members
- administrative and managerial positions with duties ranging from overseeing food and drug programs to directing activities at zoos
- high school teaching
Graduates with advanced degrees pursue careers as:
- Physicians, dentists, pharmacists, veterinarians, or university professors and researchers
Career Outlook
- Opportunities are expected to grow for biologists, especially in drug research, development, testing and
manufacturing industries. - Graduates with experience in industry through academic laboratories, internships, fellowships or
co-ops stand out among job seekers.
A&S Careers Program
Creates links among students, alumni and local professionals. You will have access to:
- lending library with up-to-date, career-related publications
- computer workroom for resume writing and employment research
- volunteer, paid and for-credit internship placement on and off campus
- department-specific mentoring arrangements.
The University of Akron
302 Buchtel Common. Akron, OH 44325
Phone: 330-972-7111
Contact us
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