Why study Biological Sciences?

Biology is the scientific study of life and life processes. Biologists study the organization of life from the structures of molecules to the balance of ecosystems. Students learn to observe critically the details of all life; they analyze data and apply biological knowledge learned in the classroom to draw conclusions about their observations. 

Biologists are able to make significant contributions to maintaining the health and well-being of the human population, as well as preserving and protecting the environment. They develop a knowledge base and scientific way of thinking that will enable them to make informed personal health and public policy decisions.

Students working toward an undergraduate degree at UC can earn a minor, while non-degree students (e.g., graduate students, non-matriculated students) can earn a certificate. The requirements are the same for both. See an undergraduate student advisor in the Department of Biological Sciences to create a plan to meet the requirements.

Career Possibilities

Graduates with a minor in biology have a wide range of career options as well as options for graduate study in biology. With a minor in biology, graduates may immediately enter careers in some technical fields or they may pursue a post-graduate degree. A few examples of career fields open to biology minors include the following (many of which require additional degrees):

• Academic, industrial, environmental / organismal, medical / pharmaceutical researcher/cosmetic science
• Occupational therapist, physical therapist,
• Physician, optometrist, dentist, chiropractor, physician assistant
• Law, specifically areas that include environmental issues and patent law requiring a solid scientific background
• Medical lab technologist, imaging technologist, nurse
• College/university, middle/high school educator
• Forestry, horticulture, park service, wildlife/fishery biologist
• Regulatory affairs specialist, hospital / healthcare administration, scientific writing
• Pharmaceutical / medical device sales or marketing
• Veterinarian, zookeeper, naturalist

Major Maps

• Guide: Minor in Biology

Advising

All questions about departmental requirements for a Biology minor should be discussed with the Biology department advisor rather than a college advisor. All students are required to consult a departmental advisor when preparing to graduate.

Department Advising

UC Advantages and Special Opportunities

Students in the UC College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) enjoy many benefits afforded through study at a research-intensive institution ranked among the nation's top 25 public research universities. UC's urban, Tristate location offers exciting opportunities for global education, research and service learning, while its student-centered focus includes an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, a nationally recognized Center for Exploratory Studies and a highly successful First Year Experience program that teaches critical skills for first-year students and provides connections with important campus resources.

Special Programs

Faculty within the Department of Biological Sciences are actively engaged in research in a variety of areas. Undergraduates have the opportunity to participate in this research and can earn academic credit that can be applied toward their upper-level biology course requirements.

Teaching laboratories within the department are well-equipped and devoted to undergraduate education. Faculty are involved and dedicated to employing new teaching methods and technology that enrich students’ educational experiences.

Admission Requirements

Students already pursuing a degree in any college at UC can add the minor to their program. Be sure to submit a declaration of the minor using our online form.

In addition, you must meet with the program director so that the department is aware that you are pursuing the minor and can advise you appropriately. Do this early enough to avoid delay in obtaining your minor.

Graduation Requirements

If you have declared the minor, then it will appear on your application for graduation. Apply for graduation as you normally would for your bachelor’s degree.

Accreditation