BA in Biological Sciences
Flexible. Curious. Built for exploration.
The BA in Biological Sciences at the University at Buffalo is designed for students with wide-ranging interests who want flexibility alongside a strong foundation in biology. It is a great fit if you are considering a double major, a minor, study abroad or a path that blends science with other fields. You will study life from molecules to ecosystems while building skills that prepare you for careers in health, research, education and many science-connected fields.
The BA option emphasizes flexibility while maintaining a strong grounding in biological science. It allows you to explore multiple interests and shape your education around your goals. This degree is a strong choice if you want to:
- Combine biology with another major or minor
- Study abroad while staying on track to graduate
- Prepare for professional school, graduate study or a range of careers
- Explore different areas of biology before narrowing your focus
BA students are supported by hands-on labs, clear advising and faculty mentorship that help them plan thoughtfully and move forward with confidence.
- Flexible structure that supports double majors, minors and study abroad
- Strong foundation across core areas of biology, with multiple lab experiences
- Hands-on learning through lab courses, experiential projects, research and internships
- Clear advising and faculty mentorship to help you plan your path with confidence
- Option to pursue honors research with a faculty mentor
Looking for an added challenge?
High-achieving students may apply to the Department of Biological Sciences Honors Program during their junior year.
Honors students complete advanced coursework, conduct original research with a faculty mentor and present their work at a departmental symposium.
The BA in Biological Sciences builds broad knowledge across the life sciences while developing practical and analytical skills. By completing this degree, students will:
- Build proficiency across major areas of biology
- Gain hands-on laboratory skills and experience with experimental techniques
- Develop quantitative reasoning and an understanding of experimental design
- Formulate and test biological questions through independent and collaborative work
- Analyze scientific information and communicate it clearly
- Understand ethical principles and professional responsibility in biological research
These skills prepare students for both advanced study and science-informed careers.
Not sure which option fits you best? Both degrees provide a strong foundation in biology. The difference is how much flexibility you want and how much advanced science coursework you complete.
BA in Biological Sciences
- Best for students with broad interests who want flexibility for a double major, minor or study abroad
- Emphasizes broad training across biology with room to connect science to other fields
- Includes hands-on learning through required core and lab courses
- Prepares students for health-related paths, interdisciplinary careers and science-connected roles
BS in Biological Sciences
- Best for students who want deeper, more advanced study in biology
- Emphasizes upper-level coursework and intensive lab training
- Prepares students for graduate study, research-focused careers and advanced biology tracks
Pick the BA for flexibility and exploration. Pick the BS for a deeper biology focus.
The BA in Biological Sciences prepares students for many paths by pairing scientific training with flexibility. Graduates pursue:
- Health professions such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and related fields
- Research roles in universities, government agencies and industry
- Education, outreach and science communication
- Careers in nonprofits, museums, policy, business and other science-connected fields
If you want a biology degree that gives you room to explore while building strong scientific skills, the BA in Biological Sciences at UB is a smart place to start.
