und biology major working with plants

Biology Major

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Explore the science of living things through well-rounded coursework and hands-on research.

A degree in Biology from UND gives you the foundational knowledge and skills to thrive in any career. Our flexible options allow you to customize your major in anything from wildlife to pre-health.

Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120 (major), 20 (minor)

Why major in biology?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 15
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

Biology is playing an increasingly important role, as society grapples with global issues such as overpopulation and climate change. With a biology major from UND, you'll gain:

  • An understanding of modern research techniques
  • Critical-thinking skills
  • A strong understanding of essential biological concepts
  • Quantitative reasoning ability
  • Broad exposure to all levels of biological organization, from molecules to ecosystems

You'll learn in state-of-the-art facilities including:

  • Animal rooms for terrestrial and aquatic organisms
  • Tissue culture facilities
  • A biology core molecular facility
  • Four field stations
  • Two greenhouses

Customize Your Biology Major

UND's flexible biology program allows you to customize your major.

Fisheries and Wildlife Biology 

The B.S. with Major in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology prepares you for careers in state, private and federal fisheries and wildlife or conservation organizations.

General Biology 

The B.S. with Major in Biology allows you to customize the program of study to meet your needs. It allows for semesters with internships or study abroad.

Molecular and Integrative Biology 

The B.S. with Major in Molecular and Integrative Biology provides a strong foundation to you to continue your studies in medical science, graduate or professional programs.

Pre-Health

Pursue the B.S. with Major in Biology (Professional Health Sciences Emphasis, Pre-Health) if you are interested in medicine or allied medical fields.

Biology Major at UND

What can you do with a biology major?

66K

Median annual salary for conservation scientists

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

5%

Anticipated job growth for environmental scientists and specialists

U.S. Bureau of Labors Statistics

UND Biology graduates have built rewarding careers in a wide range of industries, including:

  • Biotechnology
  • Conservation biology/ecology
  • Education (secondary and higher education)
  • Health sciences
  • Medical laboratory research
  • Medicine
  • Natural resource management
  • Scientific research
  • Secondary school teaching
  • Veterinary medicine

Jobs with a Major in Biology

UND biology majors have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • Abbott Laboratories
  • Altru Health System
  • Parexel
  • Sanford Health
  • University of Minnesota

Biology Major Courses

BIOL 341. Cell Biology. 3 Credits.

Description of processes common to life at the cellular level including: biochemical and structural organization, membrane function, motility, signal transduction, growth, division and genetic regulation of the cell. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, BIOL 151L. Prerequisite or Corequisite: CHEM 122. S.

BIOL 312. Evolution. 3 Credits.

A study of the processes that have led from the origin of life to the diverse patterns and forms of life observable today. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or an equivalent approved by the department. S.

BIOL 364. Parasitology. 2 Credits.

Classification, structure, functions, and life-cycles of parasites having importance to human, wildlife and veterinary health. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L. F, odd years.

BIOL 410. Molecular Biology Techniques. 4 Credits.

Applications of DNA and RNA analysis and recombinant DNA technologies, emphasizing practical experience in the laboratory. This class will meet twice a week for 50 minutes in the classroom, and students will be expected to work approximately 4-6 hours a week in the lab during open lab times. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 315 is recommended. S.

BIOL 332. General Ecology. 3 Credits.

An introduction to ecology. Covers the relationship of individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems to their biotic and abiotic environments. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or an equivalent approved by the department. F.

BIOL 336. Systematic Botany. 4 Credits.

Morphology, evolution, and classification of vascular plants with emphasis on the flora of the Great Plains. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisites: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or permission of instructor. F, even years.

Leader in Action

Biology student, Merrick McMahon, aims to improve health care in tribal communities.

Read Merrick's Story
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