Build Your Knowledge of Living Things
From unraveling molecular pathways to studying entire ecosystems, if your passion lies with living things UNE’s Biological Sciences program may be just what you’re looking for.
Our program offers three options to tailor your studies. You can major in Biological Sciences for a broad-based education or focus your studies with a concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology or Ecology and Evolution. Regardless of the path you choose, with a strong focus on undergraduate research and a robust internship program, our Biological Sciences degree will set you apart in the eyes of employers and graduate schools alike.
Concentrations
Cellular and Molecular Biology focuses on the cellular processes that allow organisms to live, grow and adapt as well as the molecular mechanisms of disease and disease resistance.
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology focuses on relationships between organisms and their environment as well as selective pressures that have shaped organisms’ adaptations and the diversity on Earth.
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Why UNE for Your B.S. in Biological Sciences
As a Biological Sciences major at UNE, you have access to a wealth of faculty expertise from across our science and health programs. No matter what area of biology interests you, you'll experience:
- A wide range of courses to choose from in biology and other fields
- A breadth of student opportunities in research programs focused on Microbiology, Drosophila Neurogenetics, Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology, Molecular Ecology, Chemical Ecology, Global Change Ecology, and Herpetology
- Internships for on-the-job experience
- Two optional concentrations: Cellular and Molecular Biology and Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
What Will You Study? Biological Sciences Degree Curriculum Overview
As a Biological Sciences major, you have the option, but are not required, to concentrate in either Cellular and Molecular Biology or Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.
B.S. in Biological Sciences Courses
The following are some examples of the courses you might take, depending on if, or on what, you choose to concentrate:
Graduate Program Pathways
UNE’s B.S. in Biological Sciences provides an ideal stepping stone to a graduate degree if you choose to pursue one, laying a solid foundation for our traditional two-year M.S. program as well as UNE’s graduate programs in medicine, dental medicine, physical therapy, and physician assistant – all of which you may apply for through our GradVantage program.
Honors Program
We offer qualified students the option of graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member. Interested students should consult with their advisor.
Secondary Education
If your goal is to be a high school or middle school science teacher, you may enroll in secondary education courses at UNE to meet the standards for State of Maine certification (grades 7-12) upon graduation.
Academic Advising
Biology Research at UNE: Fruit Flies and Chronic Pain
Look closer at the research that Biology professor Geoffrey Ganter, Ph.D., performs with the help of UNE students. Ganter’s lab focuses on studying fruit flies to understand the cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms of chronic pain.
Biological Sciences Careers and Graduate Study
Through coursework, labs, research, and internships, your degree in Biological Sciences will either set a sturdy foundation for graduate study or prepare you for a variety of exciting professions.
Our students have gone on to graduate programs such as:
- Cornell University Ph.D. program in Plant Science
- University of Arkansas Ph.D. program in Entomology
- University of Maryland Ph.D. program in Neuroscience
- UNE M.S. program in Biological Sciences
- UNE D.M.D. program in Dental Medicine
- UNE D.O. program in Osteopathic Medicine
And pursued many successful careers including:
- Bioengineering Research Assistant
- Environmental Manager
- Environmental Specialist
- Microscopy Research Associate
- Pharmaceutical Research Associate
- Public Health Research Assistant
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Campus Resources
In addition to the typical resources found on a college campus, we also offer extensive computer resources, laboratories, and classroom facilities.
Diverse Habitats
Within a short walk or drive from our Biddeford Campus, you may explore a variety of unique habitats, including UNE’s 350 acres of contiguous forest. The State of Maine’s Natural Areas Program has labeled the land a habitat of significant value due to its high density of pocket swamps and vernal pools. The area is comprised of both uplands and wetlands and is home to many species, including wild turkeys, deer, coyotes, and moose.
A bit farther afield, you may study some of Northern New England’s most intriguing ecosystems.
Experiential Learning in the Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences Program
Research for Biological Sciences Majors
- Conduct research as early as freshman year
- Perform paid research over the summer
- Engage in cross-disciplinary research with faculty from other programs, such as Environmental Studies, Marine Sciences, and the Center for Excellence for Neurosciences
- Present at conferences and publish your findings
Research Opportunities
As a Biological Sciences major, you can work with faculty on research devoted to cellular and molecular biology or ecology and evolutionary biology.
Internships for Biological Sciences Majors
Our students have completed internships at many exciting sites, including:
- Animal Medical Associates
- RadonCheck
- Center for Wildlife
- BBI Pharmaceutical
- Partners for World Health
- Mainely Kidz Physical Therapy
For more information visit the Academic and Career Advising Center.
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Travel Courses in the Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences
UNE's travel courses allow you to stay on track with your lab sciences and College of Arts and Sciences core curriculum while gaining enriching international experience.
The below travel courses are taught by Biology faculty.
To enroll in these courses, you must submit an application to the Global Education Program. You can also apply for a Global Education scholarship when applying to these courses.
Apply Today
Ready to begin your future in UNE’s B.S. in Biological Sciences degree program?
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