Marymount California University

Imagine graduating with a thorough understanding of the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution and distribution of living organisms after exploring many of the fields within biology, which include biochemistry, botany, cellular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, molecular biology, physiology, and zoology. Imagine a meaningful internship in your field of interest to give you some hands-on experience before beginning your job search, and a service learning experience with a non-profit organization that allows you to apply your learning and skills in the real world. Imagine completing your degree with a digital resume showcasing your academic achievements and practical experience. Now stop imagining. Marymount alumni have reached professional success in all areas of biology. Many former students have gone on to careers in research, medicine and health care. Your amazing life comes into view with a Marymount California University Bachelor’s degree in Biology.

Build a Solid Foundation

During the junior year, students complete most of their core biology courses and begin an in-depth study in one of three different degrees in general biology: a Bachelor of Arts*, a Bachelor of Science*, and a Liberal Arts degree with an emphasis in biology. These three degrees share a large number of courses and requirements, but differ in some key areas. The choice of which degree depends in large part on what type of career a student is interested in pursuing after graduation.

Careers with a Biology BA or Liberal Arts with a Biology Emphasis

A Bachelor of Arts in biology or a Liberal Arts degree with an emphasis in biology covers fundamental areas of biological science and the basic principles of the physical sciences as they relate to biology. Students who are interested in careers in teaching biology or health care administration may pursue the Bachelor of Arts in biology or a Liberal Arts degree and take additional classes in business, education, health care administration and leadership. In many cases, students who attain a BA in Biology continue their education in physical therapy, medicine, dentistry or other health care professions.

Careers with a Biology BS

A Bachelor of Science in biology emphasizes mathematics and science courses and prepares students for careers in biological research, laboratory work or master’s and doctoral programs in the biological sciences. A biology degree can lead to a career in organismal biology like botany or zoology, environmental management, health care, technical writing and pharmaceutical sales. Graduates from Bachelor of Science programs also pursue professional degrees in medicine, dentistry or pharmacy.

Students enrolled in Biology coursework can expect that upon graduation they can effectively communicate the concepts, methods, results and conclusions of biological research, in oral and written forms. Students will examine scientific studies and gain further knowledge through the critical evaluation of published research. Students will actively be engaged in the collection and the analysis of scientific data in which to test hypothesis.

Take Your Learning to the Next Level–The Capstone Project

During senior year, students finalize the remaining coursework in their chosen degree and undertake their Capstone Project–the culminating experience of a Marymount California University Bachelor’s degree. Each project is a year-long individual effort, involving theoretical and/or applied research completed with guidance from a faculty mentor. Capstone Project presentations represent the successful completion of the Bachelor’s program.