on-campus bachelor's degree of biology
Spring term classes start March.
Connect in person with faculty and peers.
Earn your degree on your schedule
$339 per credit hour.
$250 military preferred cost per credit
127 total credit hours.
experience biology beyond the textbook.
The on-campus Biology degree program at Bellevue University prepares students to explore the connections between science and everyday life. As a biology major, you’ll ask questions about how living organisms function, grow, and develop—investigating biological systems, cells, and genes through the process of discovery. Engage in hands-on learning and in-depth research in newly designed biology labs that feature the same advanced equipment found in major research institutions and professional settings.
Learn from expert faculty who know your name.
At Bellevue University, you’ll experience the personalization of a small college with the opportunities of a large university. Faculty in the Biology program bring experience from U.S. government agencies and private industry labs—and they work closely with you to align your learning with your interests and career goals. With small class sizes, you’ll receive individual mentorship and have the opportunity to conduct and publish research alongside faculty on projects that reflect your academic passions.
Build a foundation for diverse science and health careers.
Graduates of the Biology program pursue a wide range of career and educational pathways. Many go on to work in biotechnology, conservation biology, and laboratory research, or continue their studies in professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary science, and physical therapy. Students interested in teaching can also pursue the Bachelor of Science in Education option, which includes student teaching and endorsements in science, biology, or chemistry—preparing you to inspire the next generation of STEM learners.
what you'll learn.
In this program, you’ll explore how science connects to everyday life through hands-on research, data analysis, and fieldwork—building critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills while working with state-of-the-art lab technology.
upon graduation, students will be able to:
- Apply critical thinking skills to making connections between various disciplines of science and everyday life.
- Apply the principles of the scientific method.
- Collect and analyze data to make valid conclusions.
- Use coding to analyze big datasets.
- Use information to synthesize ideas and apply it to the solution of problems.
- Evaluate the validity and limitations of theories and scientific claims.
- Combine fieldwork in our on-campus native plant meadow with analysis in our state-of-the-art laboratories.
- Communicate ideas and concepts orally and in writing.
- Develop the broad skills required to pursue a science degree in a variety of fields.
- Work with cutting-edge science equipment such as high-throughput DNA sequencers, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, multi-color flow cytometers, and more.
Awards
Bellevue Stories
Biology degree courses
Current students please login to BRUIN and select “Academic Progress” for your curriculum requirements.
Requirements (42 credit hours)
This course introduces core concepts of biology, including: information flow, structure-function relationships, transformation of energy and matter, biological systems, and evolution.
This course is an introduction to biological inquiry, including: biological laboratory procedures and techniques, applying the process of scientific investigation to biological systems, quantitative reasoning and analysis, and communication of biological findings. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BI 100 or instructor permission
This course explores biological inquiry as well as technical and analytical skills critical for student senior thesis projects, including: analysis of scientific literature, experimental design strategies, laboratory techniques, and use of laboratory equipment. Prerequisites: BI 105
This course introduces basic concepts, anatomical terminology, cell structure and function and histology, followed by an in-depth study of the anatomy and physiology of the following organ systems of the human body: Integumentary, arthrology, muscular, cardiovascular and lymphatic systems. A mandatory laboratory component supports and amplifies the lecture material and allows the student to study microscopic anatomy on slides and to perform dissection on representative animal models. An online component allows the student to practice course content with additional exercises. Prerequisites: BI 100 required for Biology and Kinesiology majors, strongly recommended for Health Science majors.
This course consists of an in-depth study of the gross and microscopic anatomy and the physiology of the following organ systems of the human body: The central and peripheral nervous, endocrine, sensory, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, and excretory systems. A mandatory laboratory component will support and amplify the lecture material and allow the student to perform dissection on representative animal models. An online component will allow the student to practice course content with additional exercises. Prerequisites: BI 201 or Instructor permission (3 credit hrs lecture; 1 credit hr lab)
This course examines the flow of biological information at the molecular, cellular, organismic, and population level. This course also explores the relationships between biological information and cellular structure and function. The associated laboratory investigates questions related to information systems and cellular function and develops techniques relevant to these research areas. Prerequisites: BI 100 or NS 110
This course is designed to provide an overview of invertebrate and vertebrate zoology including: classification, development, morphology, anatomy, and physiology of the animal phyla. Prerequisites: BI 100 or NS 110
This course consists of the study of the structure, physiology, histology, ecology, and economic importance of plants. A mandatory laboratory component will support and amplify the lecture material and allow the student to study live and preserved specimens. An online component will allow the student to practice course content with additional exercises and quizzes. (3 credit hrs lecture; 1 credit hr lab) Prerequisites: BI 100
This course concentrates on refining the analytical and technical skills required for completion of the senior thesis project, including: laboratory techniques, analysis of published literature, experimental design, and communication of experimental findings. This course will culminate in a proposal for the student's senior thesis project. Prerequisites: BI 205
This course investigates advanced concepts of modern molecular biology in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems including such topics as transcription, translation, DNA replication, DNA repair, post-translational control, regulation of genetic information flow, and bioinformatics techniques. Prerequisites: BI 203 or instructor permission
This course focuses on general, medical, ecological, and applied microbiology including: bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminthic organisms. Prerequisites: BI 100, BI 105 required for Biology Majors, strongly recommended for Health Science majors .
This course examines the cellular and humoral mediated immunology mechanisms including: structure of immunoglobulins and cellular mediators, autoimmunity, tissue transplantation, tumor immunology, and the immunological basis of diagnosis and therapeutics. Prerequisite: BI 201, BI 203
This course examines embryological development including: fertilization, cellular division, early development, differentiation, and precocious growth of multi-cellular organisms. Prerequisites: BI 203
A project developed by the student and instructor culminating in a written and oral report to the faculty. The project may involve lab and/or field research and/or an extensive investigation of current scientific literature in a specified area of Biology. Prerequisites: Senior level and BI 305
This course studies chemical reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, atomic and molecular structure, nuclear chemistry, bonding, measurements, the Periodic Table, solids, liquids, gases, and solutions. Also includes qualitative and quantitative analysis. For students majoring in science or in pre-professional programs or allied health fields. Prerequisite: High School Algebra
This course is a continuation of CH 115. The course includes the study of acids, bases, chemical equilibrium, thermodynamics, kinetics, electrochemistry, hydrogen and its compounds, nonmetals, metalloids, and metals and their compounds. Prerequisite: CH 115
This course includes a study of the structure and functions of the many functional groups of organic chemicals including: hydrocarbons, hybridization, nomenclature, N and O-containing organic compounds, stereochemistry, infrared, UV and light spectroscopy, NMR, mechanisms of reaction. Prerequisites: CH 116 or instructor permission
This course is a continuation of CH 210. The course includes a study of addition, elimination, and substitution reactions, carbon-skeletal rearrangements, multi-step synthesis, polymers, SN1, SN2, E1, E2 mechanisms, biological molecules, noncovalent interactions between organic molecules, catalysis, and the molecular basis of drug action. Prerequisite: CH 210 or instructor permission
This course explores the fundamentals of modern biochemistry including such topics as the synthesis and metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, the study of energy metabolism, enzymes, genetic coding, and other current topics in the field. Prerequisites: CH 211 or equivalent and concurrent enrollment in CH 316 or permission of the instructor
This course is designed to provide the theory and practice of methods used in modern biochemical and molecular biological research. Topics include general biochemical lab procedures, handling and manipulation of nucleic acids, DNA sequencing, chromatography and analysis of proteins, enzyme kinetics, basic spectrophotometry, and HPLC techniques. Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in BI 315 or instructor permission; recommend concurrent enrollment in BI 314
This course presents the basic laws which govern the behavior of the physical world, concentrating on the basic mechanics of visible objects. Included in this study are the concepts of velocity, acceleration, force, energy, heat, and angular motion. Late in the course, these principles are applied to wave motion, including the physics of sound waves, and to fluids. Concepts and calculations are presented using algebraic methods. Hands-on laboratory work is an essential element of the course. Prerequisite: MA 102 or placement via ALEKS Placement Exam
And one of the two following courses:
This course provides the theoretical basis and problem-solving experience needed to apply the techniques of descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyze quantitative data, and to improve decision making over a wide range of areas. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, linear regression, data gathering methodologies and probability, as well as confidence intervals and hypothesis testing for one and two samples. Use of technology in solving and interpreting statistical problems is emphasized. Prerequisite: MA 101 or placement via ALEKS Placement Assessment
This course is an introduction to and application of statistics and research designs used in experimental psychological research. Statistical software will be used to analyze psychological data collected by the students using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Specific types of statistical tests include: measures of central tendency and variability, correlation, multiple regression, z-tests, t-tests for both independent and correlated samples, analysis of variance/covariance, and various non-parametric tests. Prerequisite: MA 101 or higher
Bellevue University students anticipating careers in Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Medical Technology, Clinical Perfusion, Nursing, Optometry, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, Respiratory Care, Veterinary Medicine, Chiropractic Medicine, and other Allied Health studies may take course requirements at Bellevue University for admission into the respective programs.
Consult faculty about specific course requirements necessary for application.
Refer also to Health Science major.
Kirkpatrick Signature Series Requirements (9 credit hours)
In addition to the Major Requirements, all Bellevue University students must complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series.
This course focuses on the political and philosophical traditions of the American republic, especially as embedded in the ideals, values, traditions, founding documents, and institutions of the United States , and considers how these traditions relate to individual citizenship and global society. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
This course focuses on the creative tensions that exist between the forces of tradition and change as the country undergoes social, cultural, and political change. It considers the manner in which change can renew the vitality of a republic. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
This course examines civic engagement in relation to individual freedoms and responsibilities. It fosters engaged citizens, empowered to effect positive change. Prerequisite: 60 Credit Hours
Integrative General Education Credits
Major Requirements Credits
Elective Credits
= 127 total credits*
General Education Courses
Take general education courses that do more than fill a requirement. At Bellevue University, these courses build foundational skills that apply to any career—critical thinking, qualitative reasoning, and ethical leadership. And, you can take courses individually or in course clusters, which connect three courses around one theme, building skills as you go.
About general education requirements >Elective Courses
Our broad selection of electives allows you to select courses related to your major or expand your perspective in other areas of interest.
University Accreditation
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission ( hlcommission.org ), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Whether a college, university, or program is accredited is important to students receiving financial aid, employers who provide tuition assistance, donors, and the federal government.
This program is considered a non-licensure degree/certificate program and is not intended for those seeking licensure or the practice of licensed profession. This program may be relevant to multiple occupations that do not require licensure and was not designed to meet educational requirements for any specific professional license or certification.
*Consult with an admissions counselor to determine your eligible credits, as well as to verify minimum graduation requirements for this degree. Transfer credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university. Bellevue University makes no promises to prospective students regarding the acceptance of credit awarded by examination, credit for prior learning, or credit for transfer until an evaluation has been conducted.
learn, connect, and thrive on campus.
Vibrant campus life
Make the most of your time on campus with student organizations, athletic events, and a tight-knit community that makes learning even more rewarding.
A true classroom experience
Engage in face-to-face learning with live lectures, interactive discussions, and real-time feedback from professors who are invested in your success.
Support every step of the way
From academic advising to career services, you’ll have a network of support to help you thrive.
State-of-the-art facilities
Access modern classrooms, study spaces, and hands-on learning environments designed to prepare you for the real world.
grow with faculty who’ve been where you are.