About the Program
Study the Life Sciences
A Bachelor of Arts in Biology offers a broad and flexible approach to studying the life sciences, combining core biological concepts with a strong foundation in the humanities, social sciences, or other fields. This degree is ideal for students interested in exploring biology within a wider interdisciplinary context, developing critical thinking, communication and analytical skills alongside scientific knowledge. At UST, it is the most popular degree for students seeking careers in healthcare.
Biology degrees
Choose the Biology Degree That Fits Your Goals
UST offers both a Bacherlor of Arts in Biology and a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology. The B.A. provides greater flexibility for students who want to combine biology with study in another academic area or complete coursework for a future professional program.
The B.S. places greater emphasis on biological research and laboratory experience and requires additional biology courses, including a faculty-directed laboratory or field project. Students should work with an academic advisor to determine which biology degree best supports their educational and career goals.
Our Curriculum
Design a Plan That Works for You
The B.A. in Biology curriculum gives students a comprehensive foundation in biology while providing flexibility to pursue complementary academic interests. The 55-credit-hour major includes coursework in biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics. Students must complete at least 120 total credit hours to earn a bachelor’s degree from UST.
Biology coursework introduces students to population biology, evolution, cell and molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry. Students can further customize the degree through upper-division lecture and laboratory courses in areas such as ecology, microbiology, neuroscience, physiology, molecular biology, cancer biology and immunology.
For an example of how the degree requirements may be completed over four years, review the recommended academic plan.
Build a Foundation in Biology
These courses are required for all biology majors:
- Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in BIOL 1351, BIOL 1151, BIOL 1352, BIOL 1152, CHEM 1341 and CHEM 1141 before enrolling in additional biology courses.
- All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. Students should always consult the catalog because upper-division courses may have additional prerequisites.
- Advanced Placement credit or credit by examination may transfer as college credit but may not be used as a prerequisite for upper-division biology courses.
- Biology courses may be taken a maximum of three times.
For additional upper-division biology coursework, students choose five lecture courses and three laboratory courses. When a three-credit-hour lecture course has an associated one-credit-hour laboratory, students are encouraged to take them together. Four-credit-hour courses include both the lecture and laboratory components.
The catalog also requires students completing a Biology or Cell and Molecular Biology major to maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA in their biology courses and take the Educational Testing Service Major Field Test in Biology during their graduating semester.
Degree requirements, prerequisites and course availability are subject to change. Students should consult the current University of St. Thomas Academic Catalog and their academic advisor for official requirements.
Apply
Begin Your Biology Degree at UST
Develop your scientific knowledge while gaining the flexibility of a liberal arts education through the B.A. in Biology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston. Build a personalized academic path that supports your interests and prepares you for healthcare, graduate education or a wide range of science-related opportunities.
Take the next step by requesting information, exploring admission requirements or applying to UST.
The UST Advantage
Connect Scientific Study With the Liberal Arts
The B.A. in Biology at UST gives students the scientific foundation of a biology major within a comprehensive liberal arts education. Coursework in the humanities and social sciences helps students examine scientific questions from multiple perspectives while strengthening their ability to think critically, communicate clearly and make thoughtful, ethical decisions.
The program’s flexible structure allows students to explore interests beyond biology while completing foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics. Students can select advanced courses that align with their interests and work with faculty to plan a path toward health professions, graduate study or science-related careers.
Student Experience
Put Biological Science Into Practice
Students build practical scientific skills through biology lectures, practicums and laboratory courses. The curriculum progresses from introductory studies in population biology, evolution, and cell and molecular biology to advanced subjects such as genetics, ecology, microbiology, neuroscience, physiology and immunology.
Upper-division electives allow students to explore the areas of biology most relevant to their interests. Laboratory experiences reinforce classroom concepts and help students develop skills in observation, scientific analysis, problem-solving and the communication of scientific information.
Throughout the program, biology faculty help students understand degree requirements, select appropriate courses and prepare for their next academic or professional step.
Career Opportunities
What Can You Do With a B.A. in Biology?
A B.A. in Biology prepares graduates for diverse career paths. Because UST’s B.A. in Biology combines biology with a liberal arts education, it can be especially useful for students who want a strong science foundation while keeping options open for health professions, education, business, environmental policy, law or graduate school.
A B.A. in Biology doesn’t necessarily limit students to “biology jobs.” The combination of scientific training, communication skills, critical thinking and a liberal arts education can make biology graduates useful in fields that require people who understand science and can communicate, analyze information and work with people.
Potential pathways include:
- Healthcare and health-related professions
- Laboratory and research support
- Public health
- Environmental science and policy
- Science education and communication
- Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
- Government and nonprofit organizations
- Graduate or professional study
Some career pathways require graduate education, professional school, certification or additional prerequisite coursework. Students should consult an academic advisor when planning for a specific profession.
Performing Study
Biology Faculty and Leadership
Alexandra Simmons Nout, Ph.D.
The Biology Department is led by Alexandra Simmons Nout, Ph.D. Biology faculty guide students through coursework, laboratory experiences, research, and preparation for graduate or professional opportunities.
