Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology
Build a flexible foundation in biology with personalized pathways to explore complementary fields and pursue your career goals.
Biology with the flexibility
to define your future
The Bachelor of Arts in Biology is designed for students who want a broad biological science education while pursuing interdisciplinary interests. Whether your goals include science communication, healthcare, environmental advocacy, law, education, research, or graduate study, this program provides the scientific foundation and flexibility to help you get there.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Total Credits: 120+ credit hours (including major, general education requirements, and required minor)
Outcome: Preparation for careers, graduate study, and interdisciplinary professions that benefit from biological science expertise
Format: On-campus, in-person instruction with laboratory and experiential learning opportunities
Program
Overview
The B.A. in Biology exists to provide students with a flexible and customizable path through the biological sciences. Unlike more structured science degrees, this program allows students to pair biology with a required minor and pursue interdisciplinary interests that expand career opportunities in scientific, creative, educational, and professional fields.
Students develop biological knowledge, analytical thinking, communication skills, and scientific literacy while building expertise that can be applied across multiple industries and professions.
Degree Pathways
in Biology
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
Who This
Program Is For
Future Science Communicators
Students interested in translating complex scientific information into engaging content for public audiences through writing, journalism, digital media, or public outreach.
Pre-Professional Students
Students planning to pursue careers in healthcare, graduate education, law, or other professional fields that benefit from a strong biological sciences foundation.
Interdisciplinary Thinkers
Students who want to combine biology with another academic area through a minor, creating a personalized pathway aligned with specific career interests.
Research and Graduate School Explorers
Students seeking opportunities to engage in scientific inquiry, faculty-mentored research, and advanced study in biological sciences or related disciplines.
Creative Science Professionals
Students interested in careers such as medical illustration, science-focused web design, environmental communication, or other fields where science intersects with creativity and technology.
What
You’ll Learn
Students develop a comprehensive understanding of biological principles while gaining the flexibility to specialize through electives, research experiences, and interdisciplinary study. Graduates leave prepared to analyze scientific information, communicate effectively, and apply biological knowledge in professional and academic settings.
Biological Knowledge & Scientific Foundations
- Ecology, biodiversity, and biological systems
- Cellular and molecular biology concepts
- Scientific reasoning and evidence-based decision making
Research & Analytical Skills
- Data collection and interpretation
- Laboratory techniques and scientific investigation
- Critical thinking and problem solving
Communication & Interdisciplinary Application
- Scientific writing and presentation
- Translating complex concepts for diverse audiences
- Applying biology across multiple disciplines and professions
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum combines foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics with extensive biology electives and interdisciplinary study through a required minor. This structure balances scientific rigor with flexibility, allowing students to customize their educational experience around personal interests and career goals.
Program Structure
Foundational Science Coursework
- Biological Principles and Laboratory
- Ecology and Biodiversity
- Cell and Molecular Biology
- General Chemistry I & II with laboratories
- Mathematics requirement
Advanced Biology Coursework
- Biology electives selected based on interests and career goals
- Specialized coursework across biological disciplines
- Opportunities for research and experiential learning
Required Minor
- Completion of at least one academic minor
- Encouraged interdisciplinary exploration outside the sciences
Required Prerequisites Include:
- BIO 124 Biological Principles
- BIO 125 Biological Principles Lab
- CHEM 110 General Chemistry I
- CHEM 111 General Chemistry I Lab
- CHEM 112 General Chemistry II
- CHEM 113 General Chemistry II Lab
- One approved mathematics course (College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Statistics, or Calculus)
Admission Requirements
Students must be admitted to West Liberty University. The B.A. in Biology is designed to provide flexibility within the biological sciences while ensuring students maintain strong academic performance throughout the curriculum. All biology, chemistry, and mathematics courses require a grade of C or higher, and students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 in biology, chemistry, and mathematics coursework to graduate.
Career &
Outcomes
The B.A. in Biology prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that combine biological knowledge with communication, policy, technology, education, and professional practice. The flexibility of the curriculum also provides strong preparation for graduate and professional school opportunities.
Graduates may pursue careers as:
- Science Writer or Technical Writer
- Science Journalist
- Medical or Scientific Illustrator
- Environmental Educator
- Public Health Professional
- Laboratory or Research Assistant
- Healthcare Support Professional
- Conservation and Environmental Program Coordinator
- Science-Focused Digital Content Creator
- Graduate or Professional School Candidate
The program combines scientific knowledge, analytical reasoning, and communication skills that employers and graduate programs value. Students graduate with the ability to adapt biological expertise to diverse industries and evolving professional opportunities.
Admission
Requirements
The B.A. in Biology is designed for students seeking a flexible and interdisciplinary biology education. Admission requirements help ensure students are prepared to succeed in rigorous science coursework and achieve their academic and professional goals.
Requirements
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Selection of the Bachelor of Arts in Biology program
- Completion of required coursework as outlined in the curriculum
- Minimum grade of C in biology, chemistry, and mathematics courses
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in biology, chemistry, and mathematics coursework for graduation
- Completion of at least one academic minor
Application Deadline:
Follow standard university admission deadlines.
Students are evaluated through the university admissions process and academic advising procedures. Faculty advisors work closely with students to create academic plans that align with both degree requirements and career aspirations.
Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
Step 1: Apply to West Liberty University
Step 2: Declare the Bachelor of Arts in Biology program
Step 3: Meet with an academic advisor and review the curriculum plan
Step 4: Select a minor aligned with your career goals
Step 5: Register for foundational biology, chemistry, and mathematics coursework
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
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.