BS in Biological Sciences
Go deeper in biology and build advanced lab skills
The BS in Biological Sciences at the University at Buffalo is for students who want in-depth study in biology and more advanced lab and upper-level coursework. You can follow a broad-based path or choose a focus area such as cell and molecular biology, ecology and evolutionary biology, neurobiology or pre-health studies. You will explore how living things work, evolve and interact with the world around them while building the scientific skills employers and graduate programs expect.
The BS option is designed for students who want a more intensive biology experience. You will take more biology credits than the BA and complete additional lab and advanced coursework.
This degree is a strong fit if you want to:
- Prepare for graduate study or research-focused careers
- Build deeper expertise in an area of biology that interests you
- Complete more lab work and upper-level biology electives
- Follow a pre-health path while developing strong science skills
Students are supported by faculty mentors and advisors who help them plan their coursework thoughtfully and make the most of each step.
An in-depth study in biology with more required credits than the BA
- Multiple laboratory courses, including advanced and upper-level labs
- Upper-level biology electives, including 400-level coursework
- Option to follow a broad-based program or develop depth in a focus area
- Hands-on experience through lab courses, research, internships and supervised teaching
- Faculty mentorship and advising to support advanced study and long-term planning
- 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 BS builds a broad foundation across core areas of biology while helping students develop deeper knowledge in a chosen area through advanced coursework, research or both.
By completing this degree, students will:
- Build proficiency in evolutionary biology, cell biology, physiology, biochemistry and genetics
- Gain proficiency in laboratory skills, including lab safety, for participation as a laboratory or field biologist
- Develop quantitative reasoning, experimental design skills and the ability to interpret quantitative data
- Formulate and test biological hypotheses and engage independently and collaboratively in the scientific process
- Retrieve information from sources such as scientific literature and experiments, analyze it and communicate it clearly in writing and presentations
- Understand ethical principles in biological research and demonstrate ethical and professional behavior
- Build advanced understanding in an area of their choice through advanced coursework, research or both
Learning progresses intentionally, helping students gain confidence and independence as scientists.
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.
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
Choose the BS for depth, advanced labs and intensive scientific training.
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
A BS in Biological Sciences supports many paths, especially those that benefit from deeper scientific training.
Graduates may pursue:
- Graduate study in biology and related fields
- Research roles in universities, government agencies and industry
- Health-related careers and advanced professional programs
- Science-connected careers in education, nonprofits, policy, museums or communication
The combination of advanced coursework, lab experience and mentorship helps students move forward with clarity and confidence.
If you are looking for a biology degree with deeper coursework, more lab experience and advanced study in an area you care about, the BS in Biological Sciences at UB is a strong next step.
