Biology - Major (B.A.)

Major: Biology
Degree awarded: Bachelor of Arts
Total credit hours: 44
Internship/Practicum opportunities: Visit the Career Development Center for internship information.

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Online Academic Catalog Details / Required Courses

About the Biology Major

If you’re drawn to the life sciences but want the flexibility to pair biology with another passion, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology at Thiel College offers a broad, adaptable pathway grounded in scientific understanding and strengthened by the liberal arts.

Biology is the study of life in all its forms—from human health and environmental systems to ecosystems shaped by social, cultural, and ethical decisions. As a Biology B.A. student, you’ll explore biological principles while developing strong communication, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills.

This degree is well suited for students who may want to:

Prepare for professional programs in healthcare or allied health
Combine biology with education, business, psychology, policy, or environmental studies
Pursue public health, conservation, or science-related advocacy roles
Build a foundation for graduate or professional study with added curricular flexibility

At Thiel, you’ll learn in small classes with supportive faculty who know your goals and help you tailor your academic path—whether that includes a minor, double major, or pre-professional track.

Bachelor of Arts in Biology Program Curriculum

The Biology B.A. provides a strong foundation in the life sciences while allowing students greater flexibility to explore complementary disciplines.

You’ll complete 44 credits in biology and related science courses, compared to the more intensive math- and lab-heavy requirements of the B.S. pathway. This structure creates room to pursue coursework in the humanities, social sciences, education, or another academic interest that aligns with your career goals.

This balance reflects Thiel’s liberal arts tradition—preparing students who not only understand biology, but can also communicate scientific ideas clearly, think ethically, and apply biological knowledge in real-world contexts.

Explore the curriculum in the Academic Catalog.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Biology comes alive through experience. As a Biology B.A. student at Thiel, you’ll apply classroom learning through hands-on opportunities that connect science to people, communities, and the environment.

Students may engage in internships, fieldwork, and faculty-guided projects that reflect their interests—whether in environmental studies, public health, education, or healthcare settings. These experiences help students translate scientific knowledge into meaningful, applied outcomes.

Many Biology students also present their work at conferences, participate in campus research initiatives, or gain practical experience through internships coordinated by Thiel’s Career Development Center.

Preparation for Graduate and Professional Programs

While the B.A. in Biology offers flexibility, it still provides a strong academic foundation for students planning to continue their education.

Graduates pursue professional and graduate programs in areas such as:

Allied health and healthcare professions
Public health and environmental studies
Education and science teaching
Healthcare administration and policy
Graduate study in interdisciplinary science fields

With careful advising and course selection, Biology B.A. students can remain competitive for advanced study while shaping an undergraduate experience that reflects their broader interests.

Biology Major Objectives

The Bachelor of Arts in Biology emphasizes scientific literacy, interdisciplinary thinking, and effective communication—skills essential for applying biology beyond the laboratory.

Biology students at Thiel will:

Explore and interpret biological problems using observation, analysis, and quantitative reasoning
Understand biological principles alongside social, environmental, and ethical considerations
Communicate effectively about biological and ecological topics in written and oral formats
Develop interpersonal and teamwork skills through collaborative learning
Build professional connections through engagement with Biology alumni

Alumni and Careers

The Biology B.A. opens doors to a wide range of science-informed careers that emphasize communication, service, and applied impact.

Graduates may pursue roles in healthcare support, education, environmental organizations, public health agencies, research support, or science-adjacent industries. Others use the degree as a foundation for graduate or professional study.

Thiel supports students well beyond graduation. Through our 15,000-strong alumni network and the Career Development Center—available to students and alumni alike—you’ll receive guidance on internships, resumes, interviews, and career exploration.

Student Life Experiences

Your biology experience at Thiel extends beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to get involved in clubs, organizations, and campus activities that deepen learning and build leadership skills.

Biology students may participate in groups such as:

Beta Beta Beta (National Biology Honor Society)
Sigma Xi (Scientific Research Society)
Environmental Club
Outdoor Recreation Club

These opportunities help you build connections, explore interests, and create a well-rounded college experience.

Scholarship Opportunities

A Thiel education is designed to be accessible. Approximately 99% of Thiel students receive some form of financial aid, and Biology majors may qualify for scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, or service.

Biology-related scholarships include:

Marion G. Resch Science Scholarship at Thiel College
Dr. Florence West Tribute to Dr. Bly
Ruth and Sheridan Brown Allied Health Scholarship
The Dr. Judith A. Crissman ’64 Endowed Scholarship Fund
The Maenpa Family Biotechnology Endowed Scholarship Fund
Elizabeth McElhaney Scholarship
J. Scott Morrison Endowment for Science and Religion
Arthur E. Smith Scholarship Fund
TWC Amelia Earhart Scholarship
The Ethel Smith Vierheller Award Fund
Irene Wintersteen Memorial Science Scholarship

Learn More About Thiel College’s Biology Major

If you want a biology degree that combines scientific understanding with flexibility, communication skills, and a strong liberal arts foundation, the Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Thiel College offers a pathway built around your goals.

You’ll graduate prepared to adapt, lead, and apply biology in meaningful ways—supported by faculty who invest in your success and a campus community that feels like home.