What you will study
UCM’s Bachelor of Science degree program curriculum in General Biology offers a breadth
of coursework, labs and research projects in a variety of scientific fields.
The full array of elective courses in specialty areas offers opportunities to study
everything from cellular and molecular functions to big picture topics such as environmental
studies and ecology. Learning multiple areas of biological studies will prepare you
for a strong entry into the job market.
Lab work is key to your General Biology bachelor’s degree
Conduct research and use the latest scientific tools in lab-based classes taught by
Ph.D.-level faculty who are experts in their respective fields.
You’ll also learn to use scientific research methods with your peers in labs and teamwork-centered
projects at our renovated Warrensburg facilities. This allows you to hone in on the
structures, functions and classification systems for the organisms that interest you
most.
Some courses you may take in UCM’s General Biology bachelor’s degree program include:
- Dendrology (woody plants)
- Human Physiology
- Parasitology
- Animal Biology
Excellence in Biology
- Best Value College for Biological & Biomedical Sciences (College Factual, 2022)
Unique learning opportunities in general biology
At the University of Central Missouri, lab-based classes and fieldwork are the centerpiece
of the General Biology Bachelor of Science program. You’ll focus on developing the
skills and hands-on experience needed to be a strong candidate for Biology BS jobs.
- Internships and research projects: UCM Biology program faculty have long-standing relationships with the Missouri Department
of Conservation, the Department of Natural Resources, corporations and nonprofits,
among others. Internships and research projects with these potential employers can
help you build professional relationships that may lead to Biology bachelor’s degree
jobs after graduation.
- Belize Barrier Reef project: UCM’s collaborative projects with a marine lab in Belize allow undergraduate students
working toward their General Biology Bachelor of Science degree to develop and implement
an independent research proposal. Following two weeks of study in Belize at the Tropical
Research and Education Center supervised by UCM program faculty, your final project
summary can form the basis for further research or lead to advanced studies and a
career in marine biology.
- Fieldwork and research facilities: Our on-campus facilities include a 300-acre outdoor classroom (Pertle Springs Nature Preserve); 3,000-sq-ft animal and aquatic research center and state-of-the-art labs and classrooms
for active learning. You’ll study plants, animals, fish, snakes, birds and invertebrates
native to Missouri in their natural habitats.
What can you do with a General Biology Bachelor of Science degree from UCM?
General Biology majors from the University of Central Missouri are well-prepared for
a wide variety of Biology bachelor’s degree jobs.
UCM Biology students enter careers that run the gamut, from counteracting climate
change and conducting research studies to taking on important roles in health care,
teaching and conservation.
Biology bachelor’s degree jobs are varied and exciting
This undergraduate degree path offers the potential to work at a regional, state or
federal agency such as the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department
of Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other employers with
a scientific focus.
With the hands-on experience, research skills and knowledge you’ll gain from completing
UCM’s General Biology BS, you could be a trainer at a government agency, work in a
research lab or become a public educator working for a nonprofit or health care organization.
Many graduates with a General Biology bachelor’s degree choose to continue their studies
at UCM to earn a master’s degree or certification to teach biology at the K–12 level.
Explore the interactive tool below to learn more about Biology bachelor’s degree jobs
and potential salaries after graduating from the University of Central Missouri.
Financial assistance options for your Biology BS degree
The University of Central Missouri offers several ways to finance your education, including general university awards, scholarships and other financial aid.
Beyond these resources, numerous scholarships are available specifically for Biology
BS students, including those enrolled in the General Biology degree program. You may
be eligible for opportunities such as these:
- Carlos Kays Biology and Earth Science Scholarship
- Dr. John Beishe Biology Scholarship
- Steven H. Mills and Stephen W. Wilson Research Award
- John Hess Health Professions Scholarship
- Honors Project Research Fund
- McNair Scholars Program
You can learn more about program-specific scholarships at the UCM Scholarship Finder.
Meet Carolyn E.
BS Biology - General Biology ’21
“The UCM Biology program and its professional organizations have provided me with
endless opportunities to gain knowledge, experience and connections in preparation
for a career in biology. The courses are taught by field professionals who provide
a strong support system for students to succeed both academically and professionally.”
Meet Our Faculty
Learn from experts in specialized fields
Your professors have publishing credits, research expertise and strong connections
in the public, private and government sectors. Ph.D.-level faculty — not graduate
assistants — teach labs to develop your research and lab skills. Our Biology program
classes have a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, so your professors will get to know
you well and help guide you to meet your career goals.
Faculty Research Areas
Pertle Springs Nature Preserve
Study at our 300-acre, on-campus field site
UCM’s newly constructed, fully equipped outdoor pavilion at Pertle Springs is used
for onsite classes and labs. You’ll conduct research in the lakes, marshes, woodlands
and other natural environments of our unique nature preserve. Working in student teams,
you’ll learn to use a high-tech drone, GPS and research boats to conduct fieldwork.
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