What is Biology?

Are you fascinated by the science of life and how living systems function? Biology is the study of life at all levels, from microscopic cells to entire ecosystems. At MSU-Northern, you’ll explore the principles of biology through hands-on experiments, field studies, and scientific research. Our program provides a strong foundation in biological sciences, preparing you for careers in healthcare, environmental science, research, and beyond. 

With options to specialize in Ecology and Conservation or Biomedical Science, you can tailor your education to match your career goals. Whether you’re interested in wildlife conservation, genetics, or preparing for medical or veterinary school, our program gives you the flexibility to pursue your passions. 

Why Choose the Biology Program?

MSU-Northern’s Biology program blends classroom learning, laboratory experience, and fieldwork to give you a well-rounded education. Our faculty bring extensive research backgrounds and work closely with students in small class settings, providing individualized mentorship and guidance. You’ll gain valuable skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific research, ensuring you’re prepared for your next step—whether that’s graduate school, a healthcare profession, or a career in environmental science. 

If you’re considering a career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, or another health-related field, our program also offers pre-professional tracks that provide the foundational coursework required for advanced study. 

Biology: Bachelor of Science (BS) 

  • Best for students pursuing careers in science, healthcare, or environmental fields. Students choose either the Biomedical Sciences & Human Health track or the Ecology & Conservation Biology track 
  • This degree offers strong preparation in biology, chemistry, and lab skills, ideal for students planning to enter health professions, laboratory research, wildlife and conservation management, or graduate studies in biological sciences, medicine, veterinary medicine, or pharmacy.. 

Biology: Minor 

  • Best for students in majors such as Health Sciences, Education, Agriculture, or Community Psychology) who want a strong background in biological science. 
  • The minor provides foundational coursework in biology, supporting careers in allied health, teaching, agriculture, or environmental science.

Here are some of the things you'll learn:

  • Understand core biological principles, from cell structures to ecosystem dynamics
  • Conduct independent scientific research and analyze data
  • Use laboratory and field techniques to investigate biological systems
  • Communicate scientific findings through writing and presentations
  • Think critically to evaluate scientific information and solve real-world problems 

At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain hands-on experience through lab work, research projects, and field studies guided by expert faculty. Our small class sizes allow for personalized mentorship, helping you build research and technical skills that set you apart. You’ll also have the flexibility to pursue specialized tracks or pair your Biology major with another discipline to expand your expertise. 

Our student-focused, research-driven approach makes MSU-Northern’s Biology program unique. You’ll have opportunities to design and conduct your own experiments, work in modern laboratories, and collaborate with faculty on real-world research projects. Whether you’re preparing for a career in environmental science, medical research, or biotechnology, you’ll receive expert guidance tailored to your goals.

For students on a pre-professional track, we provide the foundational coursework needed for medical, dental, veterinary, and pharmacy programs, giving you a strong academic start for advanced studies.  

A bachelor's degree in Biology opens doors to high-level career opportunities in multiple fields.

Potential Careers
Career Description Median Salary*

Biologist 

 Studies living organisms and their relationship to the environment, conducting research to understand life processes.  $82,680  
Ecologist  Examines ecosystems to understand the relationships between organisms and their environments, often focusing on environmental conservation.  $73,230
Forensic Scientist  Analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes using scientific methods to assist in legal investigations.  $63,740
Environmental Biologist  Researches and monitors wildlife species and their habitats to inform conservation efforts and wildlife management.  $78,980
Wildlife Biologist  Develops and implements quality assurance processes to ensure products or services meet established standards.  $70,600
Research Scientist  Conducts experiments and analyzes data to advance knowledge in a specific scientific field, often publishing findings in academic journals.  $90,010
Doctor  Diagnoses and treats illnesses in patients, prescribes medications, and provides preventive healthcare advice.  $208,000
Veterinarian  Provides medical care to animals, including diagnosing illnesses, performing surgeries, and advising owners on pet care.  $119,100
Dentist  Diagnoses and treats issues related to teeth and gums, performs dental procedures, and educates patients on oral health.  $164,010 

*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.

"My experience at Northern has been great. You could say it was the right fit – a place close to home with a supportive community and excellent academic offerings. My major is Biology, with a minor in Agriculture. The instructors are supportive, and there’s a real sense of camaraderie among classmates. I have been able to be a part of Student Support Services and have served as a peer tutor for science. Teaching other students has really helped me solidify the content for myself. After graduation, I plan to the become a veterinarian. I have already been accepted into Veterinarian School."  
- Olivia Fletes (Alumni) 

Academic Maps provide a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of the courses required to complete the program.

Biology Biomedical Science & Human Health Track
Biology Ecology & Conservation Track
Biology Minor

Example Courses for Biomedical Track:

  • Molecular Biology & Genetics
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology 
  • Fundamentals of Biochemistry 
  • Neurology of Disease

Example Courses for Ecology and Conservation Track:

  • Conservation Biology
  • Landscape Geology  
  • Ecological Methods  
  • Evolution  

Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities.  Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.

For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
 

Kyra Kaercher
  Office: Hagener Science Center 208
  Phone: (406) 265-4126

Gary Succaw 
  Office: Hagener Science Center 210
  Phone: (406) 265-4153