Biology

Welcome to Biology at SCSU!

Biology faculty and staff in the Department of Biology and Chemistry offer a comprehensive education in diverse fields of biology, preparing students for careers in research, healthcare, environmental science, and education. The curriculum covers key areas such as cellular and molecular biology, ecology, evolution, physiology, and genetics. Students benefit from hands-on laboratory experiences, fieldwork opportunities, and research projects guided by experienced faculty. The Biology programs emphasize critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and practical skills, providing a strong foundation for advanced studies or professional careers. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive academic community, the Biology programs at St. Cloud State University equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their future careers or continued study.

Our undergraduate and graduate degree programs in biological disciplines prepare students for a variety of careers and continued education (e.g., medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, ecology, evolution, wildlife conservation, fisheries biology, bioinformatics, horticulture and applied plant sciences, and natural resources).

Biology Degree Programs

We offer an array of Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Biology at St. Cloud State University. Whether you are interested in natural history, academic research, healthcare and medical professions, and education you will find an exciting array of degree options with flexible coureswork delivery styles to meet your needs.

Our general biology degree includes a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology: Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution (BEE). This general biology program delves into the interactions between organisms and their environments and the phenomena that have led to the diversity of life on Earth. Students gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, research projects, and interdisciplinary coursework. Students are prepared for a variety of career and continued education paths including veterinary science, government agencies (Department of Natural Resources, Pollution Control Agency, Fish and Wildlife, Environmental Protection Agency), academia, graduate programs, museums, zoos, botanical gardens and horticulture, and more.

If you are interested in being a STEM Educator, we offer a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Life Science Education. This program is ideal for those passionate about teaching, this program combines rigorous biological science coursework with pedagogical training. Graduates are well-equipped to educate the next generation of scientists in secondary schools or other educational settings.

Medical science related programs include a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biomedical Science, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Biotechnology, Medical Laboratory Science, Radiologic Technology, Nuclear Medicine Technology, and a Histotechnican Certificate that can be completed along with our other programs at the same time. These programs are designed for students aiming for careers in healthcare, research, or biotechnology. They cover current trends in human biology, physiology, and disease mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on laboratory skills, clinical applications, and hands-on experiences.

Graduate programs in our department include a Master of Science (M.S.) and a Biology for Educators Certificate that can be completed online for increased flexibility for working professionals that is perfect for science educators interested in a biology content-focused graduate degree. Our M.S. can also be thesis-based which provides hands-on research experiences in a variety of disciplines that is perfect for preparing students for academic research, continued doctoral education, medical school, and healthcare professions.

Biology Faculty and Staff

Biology programs at SCSU are supported by talented faculty and staff, dedicated to teaching and learning by doing, paired with well-equipped labs and research centers provide an active learning environment for students. Faculty mentors guide laboratory, field work, and independent research projects to enhance the academic curriculum and provide hands-on learning experiences. 

Facilities Where Students Get Hands-on Experiences

Our facilities include laboratories that promote research and hands-on learning in microbiology, cell and tissue culture, aquatic biology, physiology, aquatic toxicology, genomics, systematics, evolutionary biology, taxonomy, ecology, and histology. We maintain specimen-based collections for teaching and research including zoological collections and a herbarium. Our greenhouse and vivarium supports a variety of educational and research experiences.

Student Opportunities

Our students find opportunities to learn from peers, alumni, experts in the field as well as our distinguished faculty. Scholarships and tutoring services are also available. Faculty in Biology also are mentors for a variety of student-led clubs and experiences.