Biology
Major, Minor
Westminster College of Arts and Sciences
4-Year Degree
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- What You'll Learn
- Key Benefits
- Tuition and Aid
The Biology Program at Westminster University
Through fieldwork, experimentation, research, and internships, biology students learn about the world we live in by engaging in the process of scientific inquiry. Westminster University's biology program has a robust core of organismal and molecular biology, with a strong focus on hands-on laboratory and undergraduate research. In fact, students receive credit for experiential learning such as research projects and internships, and many of our students present their work at national conferences.
The Biology program offers small lab-based courses taught by faculty with expertise in biology, neuroscience, environmental science, paleontology, and biochemistry. You will have access to state-of-the-art labs in our LEED Certified Meldrum Science Center for both coursework and research projects. When you sign up for field courses, Utah’s deserts, mountains, and Great Salt Lake become your classroom.
Explore the ways you can get involved in the Westminster community to make the most of your biology education, and get insight on the perspectives of Westminster biology students.
Who the Biology Program Is For
Our program creates biologists who are creative, curious, and think critically about the world around them. Our challenging coursework and distinctive research opportunities prepare you to attend medical or veterinary school, attend graduate school in the sciences, teach biology in secondary schools, work in biotechnology, science writing, or a myriad of other careers.
What You'll Learn in the Biology Program
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Teach students how to assimilate content knowledge with research skills
- Enhance communication and information literacy skills
- Promote leadership, collaboration, and teamwork
- Encourage reflective capacities
- Develop an understanding of the major concepts in the biological sciences
- Explore relationships between science and society
sample BIOLOGY courses
- BIOL-103: Human Anatomy and Lab
- BIOL-202: Organisms and Evolution
- BIOL-204: Principles of Genetics
- BIOL-306: Aquatic Biology and Lab
Related programs
The Biology program can also be taken as a minor, which is a great supplement to a degree in chemistry, geology, neuroscience, or physics.
Application Deadline
Completed applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Fall 2022 Entry: July 29, 2022
Spring 2023 Entry: Nov. 9, 2022
Fall 2023 Entry: July 10, 2023
Entry Terms- Fall or Spring
Our Faculty
Bonnie Baxter, PhD
Professor
Christy Clay, PhD
Professor
Dave Kimberly, PhD
Associate Professor
program statistics
Recent biology graduates are accepted to professional and graduate schools at a rate of
50-100%
each year, or enter the workforce prepared for success.
"If they find life on Mars, then I would feel like I was part of something huge because it’s like alien life. That’s insane. I didn’t think I’d be a part of that as an undergraduate."
Adrik Da Silva
(’20), biology major
Biology Program Plan of Study
You’ll start by taking introductory-level courses in ecology, genetics, cell biology, and organisms and evolution. As you move through the program, you’ll be able to choose elective courses ranging from astrobiology to paleontology, while participating in undergraduate research that aligns with your interests. To complete your degree, you’ll also take courses in chemistry, physics, and math.
Liberal Education Courses
You must complete the WCore program or join the Honors College (and complete requirements) to fulfill your liberal education credits.
Biology Career Opportunities
Our program prepares students for the career of their choice. Many of our students having continued their education in professional and graduate schools. Other students have gone on to work as laboratory researchers, educators, biotechnologists, and even Peace Corps volunteers.
Potential Employers
- Intermountain Healthcare
- University of Utah Health
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Potential Careers
- Ecologist
- Physician
- Veterinarian
- Science Teacher
- Lawyer
- Microbiologist
- Dentist
- Bioengineer
- Biotechnology researcher
- Pharmacist
- Peace Corps volunteer
- Forensic Science Technician
Tuition and Aid
There's No Better Investment Than You
Westminster University knows you want an education where you matter—a place that will serve as a launchpad for a successful career and a meaningful life. Westminster will work with you individually through every step of the financial aid process. From scholarships to grants and loans, Westminster helps you make it happen.
With the highest percentage of students who complete one or more internships in the state, Westminster students hit the ground running with real-world experience. Plus, 90% of students were either employed or attending graduate school within 5 months of graduating. With a Westminster degree, you don't have to choose between a successful career and a fulfilling life.
You’ll be automatically considered for scholarship and grant opportunities.
In addition to general merit scholarships, other scholarship programs are available to support you throughout your time at Westminster.
Check Out ScholarshipsYour tuition, fully paid
All students should have the ability to explore their passions. Westminster University is proud to cover the cost of tuition for qualifying students through the Westminster Commitment.