Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Biological Science

McNeese's biological sciences bachelor's degree program combines in-depth, interactive and experiential learning and offers concentrations in pre-dentistry, pre-medicine, pre-pharmacy, molecular biology and biology education.

Program Highlights

Biological Science Degree Program Highlights

The bachelor’s degree in biological science at McNeese combines interdisciplinary study, scientific research, community service and professional activities to teach students the structure, functions and development of living organisms. With a wide range of research opportunities, the biological science degree program prepares students with the skills required to enter the professional workforce in a variety of careers, or to pursue advanced study in graduate or professional schools.

Five areas of concentration

As a biological science major, you’ll explore topics in microbiology, human anatomy, organic chemistry, physics and ecology, plus specialized classes if you select one of the six concentrations the program offers – general biology, biology education grades 6-12, molecular biology, pre-dentistry, pre-pharmacy or pre-medicine.

At a Glance

Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Program Length: 4 years (120 credit hours)

Availability: in person

Program overview

Explore More for Biological Science Majors

With hands-on learning opportunities, personalized advising and small class sizes, the biological science degree program at McNeese offers an educational experience tailored to fit your needs. Highlights of this program include:

Faculty-Student Partnerships:

Faculty mentors seek to empower students with the background and knowledge necessary for success and work closely with students in their research. This includes partnering with students to conduct investigations for publication and/or presentation at professional science conferences and offering opportunities for independent student research with a dedicated faculty member.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities:

As biological science majors, students have an excellent opportunity to study, learn and engage in programs related to health science. In addition to undergraduate research experiences, students have the opportunity to participate in field studies in local habitats, interactive learning in on campus laboratories, medical science internships, “shadowing” programs in dentistry and medicine, health volunteer programs and health missions.

Financial Aid and Scholarships:

Over 15 scholarships are available to biological science majors, from freshmen to graduating seniors who plan on continuing their education. Learn more from the Office of Financial Aid.

Student Organizations

Biological science majors have opportunities to connect with their peers outside of the classroom through a number of program-related student organizations on campus, including the Pre-Medical, Pre-Dental and Pre-Pharmacy Societies.

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Biological Science Degree Concentrations

General Biology

This concentration combines interdisciplinary study, scientific research and professional activities to teach students about all aspects of biology - the study of living organisms.

General Biology Curriculum
Biology Education Grades 6-12

As a Biology Education Grades 6-12 major, you will learn how to successfully teach the basics of biology to the next generation and will graduate ready to step into your career with initial teacher certification.

Biology Education Curriculum
Molecular Biology

The concentration in molecular biology is perfect for students who are looking to pursue careers in research and development in the fields of medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, agriculture or ecology.

Molecular Biology Curriculum
Pre-Dentistry

McNeese's pre-dentistry concentration prepares students with the strong foundation in science needed to pass the DAT (Dental Admission Test) and pursue professional study in the field of dentistry. For the past five years, 75% of McNeese grads who applied to dental school were admitted, surpassing the national dental school acceptance rate of 54.5%.

Pre-Dentistry Curriculum
Pre-Medicine

Gaining admittance into medical school is extremely difficult, but over 70% of McNeese biological sciences students who graduate with a 3.6 GPA or above succeed. A combination of rigorous coursework, guidance from our knowledgeable premedical advisors, and specially tailored programs prepares students for the MCAT and medical school.

Pre-Medicine Curriculum
Pre-Pharmacy

Students in pre-pharmacy develop a strong foundation in the biological and natural sciences. McNeese's program allows students to complete the pre-pharmacy curriculum through their junior year and, after successfully completing the first year of work in an accredited school of pharmacy, students are awarded their Bachelor of Science degree from McNeese.

Pre-Pharmacy Curriculum
Careers and Opportunities

What Can You Do with a Biological Science Degree?

There are a variety of careers that biological science majors can pursue immediately after graduation. Many students also choose to continue their studies at medical, dental or pharmacy schools.

Graduate Schools or Programs

  • Master of Science in Biological Science
  • Master of Science in Molecular Biology
  • Medical School
  • Dental School
  • Pharmacy School

Job Titles or Employers

  • Biologist
  • Biology Teacher
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Ecologist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Laboratory Technologist
  • Marine Biologist
  • Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
  • Research Assistant
  • Technical Writer

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Student Experiences

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Program Contact

Dr. Kathy Jackson, Department Head