Program Overview

Biological Sciences Program

The biological sciences program at North Dakota State University empowers students to tackle some of today's most pressing challenges at the crossroads of environmental sustainability and human health. The program offers a hands-on, research-driven education tailored to students' interests, whether they are passionate about molecular biology, wildlife conservation, or biomedical science.

Program Overview

With a flexible curriculum that integrates zoology, botany, and specialized tracks like biomedical science or ecology and conservation, students can shape their degree to align with their career aspirations. Students will graduate equipped with the analytical and comprehensive thinking skills needed to make a real-world impact, ready for diverse careers or advanced studies in health professions, research, and beyond.

Curriculum

• Major: On Campus
• Minor: On Campus

Graduate Program Information

The program provides students with a strong foundation for advanced studies in biological sciences.

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

• Microbiologist
• Wildlife Biologist
• Cell Biologist
• Fishery Biologist
• Quality Control Microbiologist

National Median Salary

$73,100

The median salary reflects national job listings for high-demand occupations in this field that require five years of experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As students gain experience, they can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations students might explore:

• Bioinformatics Scientist
• Microbiology Manager
• Zoologist

Program Features

• Rewarding Research: Gain valuable hands-on experience by engaging in a wide variety of research opportunities on a range of topics from metabolism at the cellular level, genetic differences in populations of animals and plants, and the behavior and physiology of animals.
• Professional Development and Leadership: Expand experience outside of the classroom through internships, volunteer opportunities, and joining one of the several student organizations. Get to know peers, faculty, and network with those working in the biology field.
• Accelerated Master's Option Available: High-achieving undergraduate students have the option to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in this field in five years.

Related Programs

• Biochemistry & Molecular Biology: Major, Minor
• Neuroscience: Minor
• Biotechnology: Major, Minor
• Botany: Minor
• Microbiology: Major, Minor
• Zoology: Minor

Department and College

The Department of Biological Sciences is located in the College of Arts and Sciences at North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND.