Biological Sciences (BA/BS)
By earning your degree in the biological sciences, you prepare to tackle various challenges found in labs, research institutes and related arenas.
Lead Vital Change
Removing cancer. Restoring wetlands. Renewing hearts. You can be part of important research that changes the world. Join our team of biological innovators, leaders and professors at East Texas A&M who are committed to making a difference in our world. Our biology degree offers a comprehensive overview of the living world. From the RNA sequence of salamanders to the global ecosystem, you'll learn how organisms interact with each other. Whether you're interested in biochemistry, biophysics, microbiology or zoology, our flexible degree lets you take courses that interest you. Our program also prepares you for advanced studies and professional programs.
Focus Your Passion
Focus your passion with one of our emphasis areas.
Pre-Medicine
The pre-medicine biology emphasis is ideal for students who aspire to pursue a career in medicine or other health-related fields and are committed to continuing their education in medical school, or other advanced healthcare programs.
Pre-Dental
Students on this path are typically committed to continuing their education in dental school, where they will build on their foundational knowledge in biology to become skilled dental professionals.
Pre-Pharmacy
Students on this path are typically focused on becoming pharmacists or working in related fields such as clinical research, drug development, or pharmaceutical sales.
Pre-Physician Assistant
This emphasis is designed for students who are focused on gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in PA programs and ultimately succeed in various clinical settings.
Pre-Physical Therapy
Students on this path are typically preparing to continue their education in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, with the goal of becoming licensed physical therapists who make a positive impact on patients’ quality of life.
Pre-Optometry
Students on this path are typically focused on becoming optometrists, where they will diagnose and treat vision problems, prescribe corrective lenses, and manage eye health conditions.
Cell & Molecular Biology
The Cell & Molecular Biology emphasis is ideal for students who are fascinated by the intricate workings of life at the cellular and molecular levels. Students on this path are typically preparing for careers in research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or advanced studies in graduate or professional schools.
Suggested 4-Year Degree Plan Coming Soon
Wildlife Ecology
The Wildlife Ecology emphasis is ideal for students who are passionate about understanding and preserving wildlife and natural ecosystems. Students on this path are typically preparing for careers in wildlife biology, conservation, environmental consulting, or further studies in ecology and environmental sciences.
Suggested 4-Year Degree Plan Coming Soon
Our Community
Become a part of the STEM Education Alliance. Four departments have partnered together to provide you with the tools and resources needed to excel in education. Our program offers collegiate-level teaching and tutoring experiences through the Learning Assistant program. You'll also have access to several scholarships designed for STEM majors.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
A degree in biological sciences will offer you the opportunity to:
- Go from basic to advanced knowledge of biological molecules, cells, genetics, regulation, structure/function, environmental interaction and adaptation, and evolution and ecosystems
- Appreciate the scope, unity, and diversity of life in the biosphere, including the classification of plants, animals and microbes
- Utilize the scientific method and other problem-solving skills needed in scientific inquiry and the laboratory environment
- Propose, perform and decipher research with new field technologies
Careers
Biological science students are able to apply their in-depth knowledge to tackle challenges found in labs, research institutes and related arenas. Broaden your network and gain real-world experience with internships and career opportunities with help from our faculty and staff.
Career Possibilities and Current Median Salaries
There is an 8% projected job growth through 2026 for microbiologists, 10% projected job growth for biological technicians, and 11% projected job growth for biochemists and biophysicists.
Technician
US DOL Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022
Internship opportunities
Internship experience provides the foundation employers are often looking for. Internships are offered as optional credit for this program and can be an important part of your education experience. These are just a few of the companies that partner with Student Career Preparedness and offer opportunities for East Texas A&M biology students.
What You Will Learn
You will receive a comprehensive overview of biological sciences through challenging coursework, collaborative research and tactical lab experience. This program will prepare you for jobs in biochemistry, biophysics, microbiology, zoology or further graduate study in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, physical therapy and allied health sciences fields.
Courses to Prepare You for Your Career
- Foundation courses including Introductory Biology and General and Quantitative Chemistry
- Core courses including Biological Literature, Cell Biology, organic chemistry Tutorial, Genetics, Applied Microbiology and General Physiology
Featured Courses
Student Organizations
Beta Beta Beta
Our Delta Gamma chapter is an active student organization participating in a variety of society functions and charity work pertaining to biological and health sciences. This organization is for students who major in biological sciences, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and have completed a minimum of three courses in biology (associate members are those who have not taken three biology courses but fulfill the other two membership requirements).
Undergraduate Program Costs
Program Costs
Tuition and fees for undergraduate students taking 12 credit hours are $4,212 for Texas residents and $9,108 for non-residents.
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Contact Us
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences
- 903.886.5378
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429-3011