4-Year Bachelor of Science in Biology (B.S.)
Study biology from molecules to ecosystems through hands-on lab work and close faculty mentorship, building the knowledge and skills needed for careers and advanced study in science and health fields.
Build scientific knowledge. Gain lab experience. Prepare for medical, veterinary, and environmental careers.
Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Program Delivery: On Campus
Next Term: Fall 2026
Why Choose Biology at MCLA?
MCLA’s Biology program offers a focused, supportive environment with small classes and direct faculty mentorship. With lecture sections capped at 32 students and labs at 16, students gain hands-on experience while building strong scientific and analytical skills.
Undergraduate Research on Day One
Students are encouraged to work with faculty on research projects, with opportunities to begin as early as their first year. Many students present their findings at local and regional conferences.
Pre-Medical & Pre-Vet Focus
Specialized concentrations such as Pre-Medical and Pre-Veterinary, combined with rigorous advising, are designed to prepare students for acceptance into highly competitive medical, veterinary, and pharmacy schools.
Accelerated Medical Pathways
Through an articulation agreement with the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, qualified students may begin their medical education while completing their undergraduate degree.
Career Outlook & Program Outcomes
Biology graduates develop scientific and analytical skills that are in demand across healthcare, research, environmental science, and biotechnology fields.
Where This Degree Takes You
MCLA Biology graduates pursue advanced study in fields such as medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, and biotechnology, or work in research labs, medical facilities, schools, and government agencies.
Career Opportunities
- Physician (with graduate study)
- Veterinarian (with graduate study)
- Biotechnologist
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Pharmacist (with graduate study)
- Science Educator
Explore Our Concentrations & Minors
Students pursuing the B.S. in Biology at MCLA will enroll in the general Biology major or a Biology major with a concentration (a sequence of coursework targeted to a specific field) in Pre-Medical Professions or Pre-Veterinary. For concentrations in Nutrition, Pre-Physician Assistant, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Sport Medicine, see the Health Sciences major offered by the Biology Department.
Skills You'll Master
Your Journey to a B.S. in Biology
MCLA’s Biology curriculum builds from foundational science to advanced study, combining coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Because of overlapping coursework, students can also complete a Chemistry minor with just one additional course.
Year 1:
Introductory biology courses and foundational sciences, including cell and organismal biology
Year 2:
Core courses such as genetics and continued laboratory experience
Year 3:
Advanced biology courses and electives across areas of interest
Year 4:
Upper-level coursework, seminars, and opportunities to apply research and analytical skills
Spotlight Courses
Faculty
Meet Your Mentors
Biology Features
MCLA–NYCPM Articulation Program
Qualified students who meet the articulation agreement requirements can complete their senior year at MCLA while beginning their first year at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Credits earned at the NYCPM count toward the B.S. in Biology at MCLA.
Internships & Research
Students are encouraged to explore their interests through hands-on experience, including shadowing professionals, research, and internships. They can work with faculty as early as their first year, often presenting at conferences, with opportunities available locally or tailored to their interests.
FAQs
Students complete internships with local organizations, research labs, and agencies, or pursue opportunities aligned with their specific interests.
The Biology degree provides a broad scientific foundation, allowing students to transition into other concentrations or career paths such as biotechnology, education, or environmental science.
Looking for More Information on MCLA's B.S. in Biology?
Reach Out to Us
We’ll share helpful information and student stories, and we promise not to flood your inbox.