Are you looking for the exciting opportunities provided by a larger university, while still receiving individual attention? If so, the Biology program at Penn State may be a perfect fit for you! As a top-tier research institution, our faculty conduct research on a wide range of topics ranging from coral reef ecology to molecular evolution to the neurological bases underlying mental disorders. Penn State's Biology curriculum offers you both the breadth and depth you'll need to understand modern biology at all levels of integration. Within the major, we offer the following six options, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests:
A biology major will allow you to pursue exciting careers in diverse fields, including health care, education, research, pharmaceutical sales, law, genetic counseling, medical illustration. . . the list is nearly endless and only limited by your imagination. A breakdown of the careers our recent graduates entered is shown here:
Our program provides excellent preparation for professional schools including medical, dental, and optometry. About 80% of Penn State Biology majors who apply to medical school are accepted; this is well above the national average of 42%. Other career paths include allied health fields ranging from physical therapy to physician assistant programs.
Many of our graduates accept entry-level research positions in industry, government, non-profit organizations, or universities. Penn State Biology provides a variety of research experience opportunities to prepare students for theses positions or for graduate-level research programs.
A Penn State Biology degree provides a strong foundation for potential educators. High school-level positions require certification through a secondary education program or a master's degree in education. Teaching at the college or university level typically requires a Ph.D.
Our biology graduates have also entered careers in a wide range of related fields including: pharmaceutical sales or supply, government agencies such as the FDA and EPA, and non-profit conservancy organizations. Please use the following link to visit our After Graduation page for more information about what a biology degree can do for you!