About
Students who choose to major in biology will examine the characteristics of life at all levels, from the workings of a single cell to the dynamics of an ecosystem. Appalachian State University’s Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology is designed to prepare students for careers in biology or for studies at the graduate level. This is the most flexible program in the department and is designed for students who want to focus on disciplines not addressed by other degree concentrations. Students with international career goals may choose this degree because of its foreign language requirement.
Because this degree does not have a specific concentration, you’ll gain a broad view of biology. It helps students take advantage of the diverse range of expertise held by faculty in the department and gain a diverse understanding of the field. All biology students may apply to the biology honors program which includes two research courses and an honors thesis.
After Graduation
Employment: Students start careers in a variety of biology-related positions.
Graduate school: University of Georgia
People
Courses
In addition to biology core classes, students must complete at least one course selected from four areas of study:
- Cellular or Subcellular
- Evolution or Ecology
- Anatomy or Physiology
- Biodiversity
Students must also complete a foreign language requirement.
Related Programs
Minors
A minor is required. Popular minors include:
- Chemistry
- Geography
- Anthropology
Engagement Outside the Classroom
- Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society - TriBeta was established to recognize academic achievement and promote research in the biological sciences. Membership is by invitation.
- Highlands Biology Club - a student club that works to advance knowledge, inspire the community, as well as open doors of opportunity for members through events involving Biology while having fun.
- Annual Celebration of Student Research and Creative Endeavors - a day held at Appalachian where students showcase their research projects and present their results in either a performance, platform talk or poster.
- Department Seminars - hosted by the Department of Biology for all biology students every Wednesday. Seminar topics range from research to animal biology and ecology to bioengineering. See the department calendar.
Global Learning
Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.
Department of Biology faculty members have led short-term study abroad programs to Zambia, South Africa, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand.
Admission Requirements
There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University.
Why Appalachian?
- Students are taught by faculty with diverse research interests and expertise.
- The Department of Biology has 23 specialized research facilities including the William and Ruth Debel Microscopy Facility, Animal Care Facility, Scientific Computing and Visualization Laboratory, I.W. Carpenter Herbarium, Greenhouse, campus Nature Preserve, Robert Gilley Field Station and the Elicia Caroon Johnston Biological Reserve.
- Undergraduates have the opportunity to participate in graduate-level research projects with department faculty.
- The Department of Biology offers scholarships.
- The department offers a Master of Science in Biology.
Research Facilities
Research facilities include:
- William and Ruth Dewel Microscopy Facility
- Appalachian State University Animal Care Facility
- I.W. Carpenter Herbarium
- Department of Biology Greenhouse
Number of Students
530 undergraduate students in the Department of Biology
Method of Delivery
On campus only
Careers
- Animal Scientist
- Aquarium & Museum Worker
- Botanist
- Ecologist
- Environmental Health Specialist
- Environmental Lobbyist
- Environmental Scientist
- Land Use Planner
- Marine Biologist
- Natural Resource Manager
- Nature Conservationist
- Research Assistant
- State Parks & Recreation Worker
- Zoologist
View more career possibilities
Contacts
Dr. Zack Murrell
murrellze@appstate.edu
828-262-3025