University of South Alabama

What you'll study

The biology degree combines core coursework in cellular and organismal biology with laboratory and field components. Early years emphasise foundational subjects such as general biology, general chemistry, calculus or statistics, and introductory physics, while later years focus on specialised topics and independent research.

• Foundations: General Biology I & II with labs, General Chemistry I & II with labs, introductory Mathematics (calculus or statistics), and introductory Physics.
• Core biological disciplines: Cell Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Microbiology and Physiology, typically accompanied by practical laboratory sessions.
• Molecular and biochemical training: Courses in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology that prepare students for molecular techniques and modern laboratory workflows.
• Quantitative and research skills: Biostatistics, Experimental Design, and Research Methods to support data analysis and independent project work.
• Applied and elective options: Marine Biology, Conservation Biology, Immunology, Developmental Biology, Neurobiology, and courses tailored to pre-health or environmental career tracks.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Senior Seminar or Capstone project, honours research options, faculty-led research groups, internships with local agencies, and field courses making use of the Gulf Coast environment.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent with a record of strong performance in science and mathematics courses. Recommended preparation includes high school biology, chemistry and algebra or precalculus; physics is also advantageous. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, personal statements and any relevant extracurricular experience such as laboratory work, volunteer health or environmental service.

International applicants must present equivalent secondary credentials and demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or qualifications as required by the university. Transfer students are evaluated on college-level coursework and credits, with placement in the programme guided by completed prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates with a biology degree pursue a wide range of careers. Common paths include:

• Preparation for professional health careers (medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, nursing, pharmacy) through pre‑professional advising and required prerequisites.
• Laboratory and research roles in biotechnology, pharmaceutical companies, clinical laboratories and university research labs.
• Environmental and conservation work with government agencies, non-profit organisations and environmental consulting firms—especially work related to coastal and marine ecosystems.
• Education roles at K–12 levels after appropriate teacher certification, or further study in science education.
• Further academic study (Master’s or PhD) in specialised biological sciences, public health, or related interdisciplinary fields.

Why study at University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers a biology programme with strong emphasis on undergraduate research and experiential learning. Its coastal location provides direct access to diverse Gulf Coast habitats for field courses and research projects, and the university maintains clinical and research partnerships with local hospitals and agencies that create internship and practicum opportunities.

Students benefit from hands-on laboratory training, small-group instruction in upper-level courses, and faculty mentorship that supports independent research or honours projects. The programme also includes advising for students pursuing health professions and facilitates connections with regional employers and graduate programmes.