Montana State University

What you'll study

The Biology degree combines core courses in cell and molecular biology, genetics and evolution with organismal, ecological and physiological topics. Students take laboratory-based classes to learn experimental design, microscopy, molecular techniques and data analysis, and they gain field experience through courses in ecology, conservation biology and wildlife biology.

• Core topics: cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, physiology and microbiology.
• Laboratory and quantitative skills: general biology labs, molecular techniques, microscopy, biostatistics and bioinformatics fundamentals.
• Applied and field modules: ecology field methods, conservation biology, fisheries and wildlife management, plant and animal systematics.
• Research and capstone: opportunities for independent undergraduate research, senior seminars or capstone projects supervised by faculty.
• Flexible electives and pathways: options to concentrate in areas such as cellular/molecular biology, ecology and organismal biology, or to take pre-health/pre-professional tracks, and to combine with minors like chemistry, environmental science or mathematics.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Biology programme typically requires completion of secondary school with a strong grounding in science and mathematics. Successful applicants usually present coursework in biology, chemistry and algebra or pre-calculus; physics is recommended. For transfer applicants, college-level credits in introductory biology and chemistry are advantageous. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university's standard requirements.

Admission to specific tracks or competitive research placements may have additional expectations such as minimum grades in prerequisite courses, faculty recommendations or a statement of interest.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology degree from Montana State University pursue a wide range of careers and further study. Common pathways include:

• Research technician or laboratory assistant positions in academic, government or industry settings.
• Environmental and natural resource roles such as ecological consultant, conservation biologist, wildlife or fisheries technician.
• Health-related careers: many students use the degree as preparation for medical, veterinary, dental or allied-health professional programmes.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry positions in quality control, regulatory affairs or development support.
• Education roles at the secondary level (with additional teacher certification) or outreach positions in museums, nature centres and NGOs.
• Progression to postgraduate study (MSc, PhD) in specialised biological disciplines.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State University is a land-grant research institution with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and undergraduate research. Biology students benefit from active research groups, modern laboratory facilities and field-based courses that make use of Montana's varied ecosystems — mountains, plains and riparian systems — for practical training.

The department fosters close faculty mentorship and offers pathways to internships and collaborative projects with government agencies and industry partners. These elements support students aiming for immediate employment as well as those planning graduate or professional study.