Program(s) Available: B.S., Minor
Biology is a diverse field of study ranging from microorganisms to ecosystems. Biologists can work outside or in laboratories! What we're saying is a biology degree opens the door to many career opportunities. If this interests you, keep scrolling!
Biology is the study of all life forms. Northwest faculty focus on preparing students for careers in all areas, including botany, cell biology, ecology, environmental science, molecular biology, microbiology and zoology. Upon completion of core courses, students can choose a specialization they are passionate about.
A comprehensive major in biology with an emphasis in general biology is the most flexible track because it allows students to take courses in zoology, botany, ecology, physiology, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, and environmental science. This is ideal for students interested in pursuing graduate school!
Students in this track study cellular structures and processes. Students interested in going into the medical field would benefit from a cellular/molecular track. This specialization prepares students for graduate school and/or career paths in biotechnology, biomedical research, and related areas. These are fields that are experiencing growth in employment opportunities both in higher education and in the private sector.
Studying Biology in the Biomedical Science track focuses on the areas of biology and chemistry that are relevant to healthcare. The discipline is very wide-ranging, and careers in Biomedical Science are mostly research- and lab-based to improve and advance medical knowledge.
A minor in biology teaches students the foundations of biology, chemistry, botany, zoology and genetics. Students are required to have a lab course for biology, chemistry, botany and zoology coursework. After taking the required courses, students can customize their minor from a list of approved electives. For a list of required courses, visit the academic catalog. This minor requires the completion of 24 credit hours.
Tue, Feb. 4, 2025
(marine biology & wildlife ecology/conservation)
Tue, March 18, 2025
(biomedical/pre-professional)
Tue, March 18, 2025
(sonographic/radiologic/echocardiographic sciences)
Department of Natural Sciences
660.562.1388
crater@nwmissouri.edu
Career Ready
Biology
"One of the biggest transferable skills I got from Northwest to go forward in my career is the lab experience. I have done multiple techniques in my upper-level courses that other students in larger universities don't have the opportunity to do." — Jordan Unger
Mozingo Outdoor Education Recreation Area (MOERA) features more than 320 acres of land dedicated to providing experiential learning opportunities. Students taking wildlife ecology and conservation courses construct Sherman traps for small animals and pitfall traps for reptiles and amphibians!
Garrett-Strong Science Building offers 26 labs where students can gain profession-based experiences on campus. This facility also houses a synthetic cadaver, an aquarium and two museums that feature living animals such as a hedgehog, rats, iguanas and more!
