Biology (Pre-Medical/Dental; Pre-Physician Assistant; Pre-Veterinary Medicine) Major

Biology is a rapidly growing scientific field. The Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Grand View University is intended for students interested in post-graduate studies in the allied health field. This program is designed to help students meet the admission requirements for medical, dental, physician assistant, podiatry and veterinary medicine school.

Students engaged in this program will be placed on an academic pathway that prepares them for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Dental Admission Test (DAT), Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and others, such as the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).

Grand View's survey of recent Biology graduates shows acceptance rates to allied health graduate programs that exceed national acceptance rates:

Allied Health Program	National Acceptance Rate	Grand View Graduate Acceptance Rate
Medical School	41%	67%
Veterinary School	10%	100%
Physician Assistant School	32%	50%
Podiatry School	67%	100%
Physical Therapy School	32%	67%
Optometry School	74%	100%
Chiropractic School	N/A	100%
Dental School	6.1%	100%

View full Biology Program Playlist on YouTube

Why Grand View?

Diverse curriculum that satisfies the admission requirements for medical school and dental school
Faculty will work with you to balance academics and athletics, when necessary
We maintain a close connection with Des Moines University - a popular choice for students after Grand View
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
Expert advising for pre-medical/pre-dental students
A vocational seminar that helps students get into medical and dental school

Career Options

Our biology major will prepare you for the following graduate schools:

Medical school
Dental school
Optometry school
Forensic science
Graduate studies

What Can I Do With This Major?

Course Requirements

Download Degree Checklist

Student Testimonials

Jori 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

Degree Combinations

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

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.