Department of Biological Sciences
Explore the science of life through hands-on learning, research, and faculty mentorship. Develop the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in healthcare, research, conservation, biotechnology, and environmental science.
Explore. Discover.
Innovate.
The Department of Biological Sciences at West Liberty University provides students with a comprehensive and personalized education rooted in experiential learning. From research opportunities beginning in the first year to specialized academic pathways and faculty mentorship, students develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in graduate school, professional programs, and scientific careers.
Degrees Offered
Undergraduate
- B.S. in Biology
- B.A. in Biology
Graduate
- M.S. in Biology
- M.A. in Biology
Program Pathways & Concentrations
- General Biology
- Human Biology
- Microbiology
- Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology
- Environmental Stewardship and Education
- Pre-Medicine / Pre-Osteopathic Medicine
- Pre-Veterinary Biology
- Zoo Sciences and Applied Conservation
- Biological Research
- 3+2 Human Biology/MSPAS
- WLU/WVU Dental Early Admission Program (D.E.A.P.)
Degree Pathways
in Biology
West Liberty University’s Biology programs offer multiple pathways that align with a wide range of scientific interests and career goals. Whether you’re preparing for medical school, veterinary medicine, conservation work, research, or graduate study, you’ll gain the scientific foundation and hands-on experience needed to advance your future.
A flexible biology pathway that provides a broad foundation in biological sciences while allowing students to tailor coursework to their career interests and academic goals.
Ideal if you want to:
- Explore multiple areas of biology
- Prepare for graduate or professional school
- Gain a broad scientific foundation
- Build laboratory and research skills
Designed for students interested in human health, physiology, and healthcare-related professions. Coursework focuses on biological systems and human wellness.
Ideal if you want to:
- Study human anatomy and physiology
- Prepare for healthcare careers
- Pursue allied health professions
- Build a foundation for graduate study
Study microorganisms and their impact on human health, industry, and the environment through laboratory-based learning and scientific investigation.
Ideal if you want to:
- Work in laboratory settings
- Study infectious diseases
- Pursue biotechnology careers
- Continue into graduate research programs
Examine the relationships between organisms and their environments while exploring evolutionary processes that shape life on Earth.
Ideal if you want to:
- Study ecosystems and biodiversity
- Pursue wildlife and conservation careers
- Conduct field-based scientific research
- Explore environmental science
Combine biological science with environmental awareness and public engagement to address today’s sustainability challenges.
Ideal if you want to:
- Promote environmental responsibility
- Work in conservation education
- Engage communities in science
- Support sustainability initiatives
Prepare for medical, osteopathic, and other healthcare professional programs through rigorous science coursework and faculty mentoring.
Ideal if you want to:
- Attend medical school
- Pursue osteopathic medicine
- Build a competitive professional school application
- Develop advanced scientific knowledge
Gain the academic preparation, biological knowledge, and animal science experience needed for veterinary school and animal health professions.
Ideal if you want to:
- Become a veterinarian
- Work with animals professionally
- Study animal physiology and behavior
- Prepare for veterinary school admission
One of West Liberty University’s most distinctive offerings, this program combines animal husbandry, conservation science, internships, and hands-on experience with animal collections and accredited zoological institutions.
Ideal if you want to:
- Work in zoos or aquariums
- Pursue wildlife conservation careers
- Gain extensive animal-care experience
- Participate in conservation research
Facilities and
Research Opportunities
Learn in modern laboratories and research-focused environments
Biology students learn through hands-on experiences in laboratories, research facilities, field environments, and specialized animal science settings.
Facilities & Technology Include:
- Modern biology teaching laboratories
- Undergraduate and graduate research spaces
- Field research opportunities
- Microscopy and laboratory instrumentation
- Animal care and husbandry facilities
- Access to zoological and conservation partner sites
- Faculty-guided research environments
- Scientific presentation and conference opportunities
Students gain practical experience using scientific techniques and technologies that prepare them for professional careers and advanced study.
Careers in
Biology
Explore diverse career opportunities in healthcare, research, conservation, biotechnology, education, and beyond with a degree in Biology from West Liberty University.
Biology graduates educated at West Liberty University are prepared for diverse career paths, including:
- Biologist
- Microbiologist
- Research Scientist
- Medical Doctor
- Osteopathic Physician
- Veterinarian
- Physician Assistant
- Dentist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Conservation Scientist
- Environmental Consultant
- Laboratory Technician
- Public Health Specialist
- Zoo Professional
- Aquarium Specialist
- Science Educator
- Biotechnology Professional
Biology graduates contribute to the health of people, animals, and ecosystems while advancing scientific understanding and improving communities around the world.
Mission, Vision
& Values
The Department of Biological Sciences is committed to providing a high-quality scientific education that combines academic excellence, experiential learning, and personalized support. Through research, discovery, and mentorship, students are prepared to become knowledgeable professionals and lifelong learners.
Core Values:
Scientific inquiry · Academic excellence · Experiential learning · Research and discovery · Critical thinking · Professional integrity · Collaboration · Environmental stewardship · Student-centered mentoring · Community engagement
The curriculum emphasizes applied learning, scientific investigation, faculty mentorship, and the development of practical skills that prepare graduates for professional success and advanced study.
Graduate
Competencies
Graduates demonstrate competence in:
- Biological principles and scientific concepts
- Laboratory techniques and safety practices
- Scientific communication
- Data collection and analysis
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Research design and methodology
- Ethical decision-making
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Field and laboratory investigation
- Professional preparation for graduate and career pathways
Resources &
Engagement
Explore resources and opportunities that support hands-on learning, professional growth, research, and meaningful connections throughout your academic and career journey.
Students and alumni benefit from a wide range of departmental resources and engagement opportunities, including:
- Faculty advising and mentoring
- Undergraduate research opportunities
- Graduate research opportunities
- Professional conference participation
- Scientific presentations and publications
- Career and graduate school preparation
- Internship opportunities
- Field experiences
- Laboratory training
- Student research funding opportunities
- Professional networking
- Experiential learning opportunities
- Specialized pre-professional pathways
- Alumni connections and mentorship
Contact the
Department
Have questions about programs, admissions, or career pathways? Our faculty and advisors are here to help you take the next step.
Deanna Schmitt
Interim Chair of Biological Sciences
deanna.schmitt@westliberty.edu
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.