Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology Loras College

Follow your passion for the cutting edge of science and research by majoring in biology. Your experience will be unlike that provided by any other private institution in the Midwest. Choose from a major in biology or biological research while customizing your specialty. Gain hands-on experience using a DNA sequencer, collecting samples out in the field, and conducting your own research projects. You’ll expand your knowledge and professional network in one of the biology program’s J-Term classes in Florida, Texas, or Costa Rica.

Student Experience

The biology degree at Loras will provide you with an understanding of fundamental concepts as well as specialized knowledge in the study of life on earth. You’ll be ready to tackle exciting challenges in areas like health science, education, and conservation – or expand your expertise in graduate or medical school.

Earn substantial experience in the field prior to college graduation with an internship in your area of interest. Examples of recent internships include placements with; SeaWorld College Experience, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network, Willowbrook Wildlife Foundation, Glen Ellyn, IL.

The Loras College Bachelor of Biology degree program offers a major and minor in biology and a major in biological research. Optional specialization in biology for secondary teaching is also available. The curriculum contains a mixture of applied learning and research opportunities starting in your first semester.

Student Learning Outcomes – Biology

1. Articulate scientific results and interpretation effectively in an oral presentation.
2. Write effectively to communicate scientific information.
3. Design valid and appropriate experiments to answer biological questions.
4. Accurately interpret and analyze biological data and statistics.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the botany of plants.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of the rules of genetic inheritance.
7. Describe important molecules and pathways that allow cells to function in tissues.
8. Apply ecological and evolutionary theory to current ecological problems.
9. Compare normal physiological body functions with diseased body functions.

“What can you do with a Biology degree?”

As a biology major, you will be prepared for a variety of interesting careers in the field of biology and research. Here are some examples of fields our alumni have entered:

• Medical school and other health professions
• Government agencies (wildlife, fisheries, habitat management)
• Research and development
• Pharmaceutical sales
• Museum education/ management