Warning! Your browser is extremely outdated and not web standards compliant.
Your browsing experience would greatly improve by upgrading to a modern browser.
Visit Apply Contact

Biology (BA) Major

Biology is a rapidly growing scientific field. At Grand View we promote a learning environment of discovery, curiosity, and exploration. We offer a competitive program for students pursuing careers in the health sciences, graduate school, or industry. We offer a diverse array of courses and have the distinction of offering students the unique experience of learning anatomy using human cadavers.

View full Biology Program Playlist - YouTube

Why Grand View?

  • Diverse curriculum that satisfies the admission requirements for both health-science and graduate programs
  • Faculty will work with you to balance academics and athletics, when necessary
  • Specialty classes such as immunology, histology, and embryology 
  • Gross anatomy with human cadaver dissections 
  • Research opportunities, with access to state of the art research equipment
  • Pre-professional advising by biology faculty
Career Options

Our biology major will prepare you for a career right after graduation or graduate study in any of the health-related professions, such as:

  • Professional schools (Medical, Dental, Physical Therapy, Ph.D. programs, Physician's Assistant Programs, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy School, Chiropractic Schools)
  • Research and manufacturing companies
  • Parks and recreational facilities
  • Government or public work facilities
  • Pharmaceutical sales

What Can I Do With This Major?
Course Requirements
Download Degree Checklist
Student Testimonials

Jori AveryJori Avery

“Jori always takes the time to listen to my concerns and help develop a plan of action. She is knowledgeable and loves to share her wisdom. She was recently a student herself so she relates well to students here at GVU.” - Allyssa Angle
Pre-professional Preparation STEM Honors Scholarship

GV Degree Combinations

You may also be interested in one or more of the following:

Awards and Accomplishments

Faculty

Published papers in peer reviewed journals and attend national conferences.

Engage in the community by presenting at STEM fairs, working in schools to present science topics as well as help plant gardens in schools in the area.

The department received $100,000 in laboratory equipment in 2017 from the Carver Foundation. Additionally, grants have been received from Better Futures for Iowans and the Iowa Science Foundation.

Department members have won the Grand View Excellence in Innovation in Teaching Award and the Outstanding Scholarship/Research Award.

Students & Alumni

Anai Perez '17 • A recent graduate of the biochemistry and biology departments, has been accepted as a Research Associate at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle. Fred Hutchinson is one of the top three cancer research institutions in the United States.

Students have won Outstanding Student Poster and Outstanding Student Presentation at the Grand View Annual Scholarship Symposium.

Students have presented posters at national conferences, such as the National Association of Biology Teachers.

Recent grad Brittany Bowman and biology majors Mark McDaniel, Michael Foggia, Kelsey Brend and Katherine Hobbs, in collaboration with Dr. Michael LaGier, have published a research article, “Improved Functional Prediction of Hypothetical Proteins from Listeria monocytogenes 08-5578.” The article will appear in an upcoming issue of The Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science.

Jobs Are on the Rise

Many biological science specializations are on the rise, due to concerns ranging from health care to climate change. As communication and transportation advances bring the world's people closer together, the scientific community has expanded its efforts to deal with life-threatening diseases. Therefore, many new biology majors study genetics, immunology and endocrinology.

As humans live longer and remain physically active through more of their lives, biology majors can help meet the increased demand for qualified researchers and physicians.

Relevant Research at GV

Grand View biology students receive academic training with a strong emphasis on hands-on laboratory experiences, including opportunities to participate in undergraduate research projects.

The actual use of laboratory equipment and the completion of research projects provide students with meaningful and real-life experiences that enhance their future success.

Explore More Programs Visit Campus

Faculty

Elings Hall

Launch Elings Hall