Bachelor of Science in Biology | St. Ambrose University

Bachelor of Science in Biology | St. Ambrose University
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Bachelor of Science in Biology
Classes start 05/18/2026
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What is a BS in Biology?
Discover the Bachelor of Science in Biology program, where you'll study the complexities of life sciences. Engage in practical labs, research projects, and  coursework to understand biological principles. Prepare for various careers in healthcare, research, education, or environmental science with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and collaboration. Develop the skills necessary to address real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field of biology.
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Program at a glance
On campus
120 credits
36 gen ed credits
68 biology credits
16 elective credits
Max transfer credits 90
Accredited and recognized
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Get the details
Why earn a BS in Biology?
A BS in Biology degree opens doors for a range of potential careers. Our real-world experiences and industry-aligned curriculum are personalized for each student, allowing you to achieve your educational and career goals.
Tailored programs
Opportunities for research, collaboration, and study, we are able to customize learning to meet your career
Advanced opportunities
Develop anatomy and physiology skills in our cadaver dissection-based lab. A rare opportunity in undergrad programs
Real-world experience
Students can study at Nahant Marsh, one of the few remaining urban wetlands along the Mississippi River.
Industry-aligned curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to align with the expectations of employers in each respective field.
Health professions concentration
Prepare for health graduate studies with our pre-health concentration, covering essential admission courses.
Pre-professional programs
Prepare for a career in medicine, occupational or physical therapy, dentistry with our pre-professional tracks.
What you’ll learn in your BS in Biology program
The BS in Biology provides hands-on, laboratory-based training in life sciences education, to prepare students for a wide array of careers, including graduate study in health professions, education, and conservation/wildlife biology.
Master foundational principles of biology, including genetics, ecology, and cellular biology.
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through laboratory experimentation and data analysis.
Gain proficiency in scientific communication, both written and oral, through presentations and research papers.
Explore interdisciplinary connections between biology and related fields such as chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
Cultivate a deep understanding of biodiversity and its importance in ecological systems and conservation efforts.
Apply ethical principles in biological research and professional practice, demonstrating integrity and responsibility.
Engage in hands-on fieldwork and internships to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts.
Foster a lifelong curiosity for scientific inquiry and continual learning in the ever-evolving field of biology.
Prepare for your next step
"St. Ambrose's cadaver lab was a huge draw for me. I was in a 16-student lab where I was able to work directly with cadavers and participate in the dissection. Most students don't get this experience until graduate school, so this was a big plus."
-William Nemechek '25
BS in Biology
Start my degree
Explore biology courses
This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You’ll need to complete 36 gen ed credits, 68 core credits, 16 elective credits, and research opportunities.
Explore recommended sequence
View all courses
Sample courses
Class code
Class title
Credits
BIOL 300
Biological Literature and Communication
3 credits
BIOL 301
Cell and Molecular Biology
4 credits
BIOL 303
Genetics + Lab
4 credits
BIOL 307
Ecology
4 credits
BIOL 348
Evolution
4 credits
How much does a BS in Biology cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee.
You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses.
Explore the cost of attendance
Full-time student living on campus
Expense
By semester
By year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*
$19,674
$39,348
Housing**
$4,313
$8,625
Food***
$3,135
$6,270
Technology fee
$150
$300
Total direct charges (billable)
$27,272
$54,543
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Explore campus housing
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognition provide the assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
How does SAU support their students?
St. Ambrose University’s biology program is distinguished by its exceptional faculty. They are a collective of professionals who bring a wealth of industry knowledge, diverse perspectives, and an unwavering passion for teaching to our classrooms.
Our biology department faculty cares about your academic success and personal goals, and we've designed a strong curriculum and give you opportunities that support your goals.
Biology faculty
Amanda Bohnert, MS
Amy Blair, PhD
Brenda Peters, PhD
Dennis Tarasi, PhD
Diamond Jelani, MS
Justin Rice, PhD
Kirk Kelley, PhD
Matthew Halfhill, PhD
Nathan Steffens, PhD
Neil Aschliman, PhD
Other support resources
Student Success Center
Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Explore academic support services
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land a job or internship to launch your career.
Discover career support
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Are there scholarships available for a BS in Biology?
At St. Ambrose, we believe education should be accessible to all. That’s why we offer a variety of
scholarships
and
financial aid
options to help make college more affordable. We are committed to providing students with the resources they need to succeed – both academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free education at St. Ambrose University is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Loans.
Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement.
Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
You may be able to transfer previous college credit to cover up to 25% of your degree, saving you significant time and money.
Learn how to transfer credits.
Outside scholarships
We accept scholarships from outside sources, and there are tons of options out there. Start by searching for scholarships with criteria that match your specific talents or background. Need help? Here are a few websites to begin researching your options:
Fastweb
College Board Scholarship Search
Scholarships.com
Peterson's Award Database
Scholly (app download)
What’s on campus for biology students?
Are you joining SAU as a first-year student? Consider enrolling in our Field Biology Research Learning Community – Inquiry in Action – which takes the lab to Nahant Marsh, one of the few remaining urban wetlands near the Mississippi River.
Deepen your learning by joining Biology Club or our Biology Honor Society, Beta Beta Beta. You can work closely with faculty while participating in Biology Lab Prep Works. Become a member of Doctors to Bee, and be guided and supported by your peers as you prepare for graduate school.
Join GreenLife, SAU's student environmental club focused on educating and spreading awareness about local, national and worldwide environmental concerns. The work our students do is recognized and makes a difference.
Join the Sustainability Committee. Our mission and shared values of academic excellence, the liberal arts, social justice, and community service require Ambrosians do more than simply advocate for sustainability; we must also challenge ourselves to do more - on campus, in the world, and for our future.
Dedicated faculty
"The biology professors are all phenomenal. You're not just another student to them. I'm very happy to have worked with them for four years compared to what I could've had at a large university."
-William Nemechek '25, BS in Biology
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What are the BS in Biology admission requirements?
Start your biology career at St. Ambrose. Here are the admissions requirements for our BA in Biology.
You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
You must provide an official high school transcript
Apply now
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79,  IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a BS in Biology?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our BS in Biology program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Biotechnologist
Environmental Scientist
Pharmaceutical Researcher
Geneticist
Microbiologist
Conservation Biologist
Clinical Research Associate
Laboratory Manager
Potential employment settings
Biotechnology Companies
Environmental Agencies
Pharmaceutical Companies
Genetic Research Laboratories
Microbiology Laboratories
Conservation Organizations
Clinical Research Organizations
Ecological Research Centers
Top traits of a BS in Biology major
Analytical
Attention to Detail
Scientific Knowledge
Laboratory Techniques
Critical Thinking
Ethical Integrity
Research Skills
Adaptability
Industry facts
Around 1.8 million openings are projected each year, on average.
Approximately 34% of Biology majors become healthcare practitioners and/or enter technical occupations.
For more information on biology employment and wages, visit the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
News and events at SAU
From A(mbrose) to (Gen) Z
St. Ambrose University is proud to the host International Conference on Faith, Hope, and Renewal in the Catholic Church on April 24–26, 2026.
From Iowa to the Ruby Mountains: How St. Ambrose helped Hannah Reynolds ’23 find her calling
An SAU education helped biology major Hannah Reynolds '23 find and pursue her calling.
Celebrating faith and reason: St. Ambrose blesses anatomy lab
St. Ambrose University students, faculty and staff gathered in the lower-level hallway of Lewis Hall for a first blessing of the campus anatomy lab.
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
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