Biology, BS

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Program Details

Location
Akron Campus
Level
undergraduate
Degree/Program Type
Bachelor of Science / major
Format
In-person
Course Info
Curriculum Guide
Course Sequence
College
Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences (BCAS)
School/Department
Biology Department

Program Contact

Dr. Jordan Renna

Professor / Chair

330-972-6933 Send an Email

Overview

Our biology program isn't built around watching science happen, it's built around participating in it. 

At The University of Akron, you'll learn by doing. Join research teams as early as your first year, conduct field studies in Northeast Ohio's parks, preserves and zoos, and gain clinical experience through partnerships with leading health systems just minutes from campus.

You'll work alongside faculty whose research spans everything from wildlife and ecosystems to cutting-edge biomedical science, tackling real scientific questions while developing the analytical, laboratory and problem-solving skills that employers and graduate schools value.

Whether you're preparing for medical school, veterinary medicine, biotechnology, environmental science or a career in research, you'll graduate with more than a degree, you'll graduate with the experience and confidence to take your next step.


 

Admissions Requirements

The University of Akron Bulletin provides an overview of degree requirements. Official degree requirements are established when transfer credits are evaluated and admission to the degree-granting college is finalized. Once enrolled, students should refer to their Degree Progress Report (DPR), which serves as the official record of graduation requirements.

Career Opportunities

How far can a biology degree go? That’s up to you.

  • Become a physician, veterinarian or other health professional.

  • Advance biomedical research and scientific discovery.

  • Build careers in environmental science, conservation, wildlife biology and ecological restoration.

  • Support sustainable practices through environmental consulting, natural resource management and ecological monitoring.

  • Drive innovation in biotechnology and life sciences.

  • Pursue graduate, professional or doctoral study.

  • Inspire future generations through science education and outreach.


The program's emphasis on critical thinking, research, and interpersonal skills also prepares students for graduate studies.  

What Makes Akron Great

From world-class faculty and state-of-the art labs, you'll find opportunities here that help you go further, faster. Come see for yourself.

Schedule a visit

BURS Students
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Strong healthcare and community partnerships

The Pre-Med program connects students with clinical experiences through partnerships with organizations including:

  • Summa Health

  • Akron Children's Hospital

  • Cleveland Clinic Akron General

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Learn from internationally recognized researchers.

Multiple Biology faculty have been recognized among Stanford University's Top 2% of the World's Best Scientists, giving students the opportunity to learn from and conduct research alongside globally recognized experts.

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Find your community and prepare for your future

Connect with peers, faculty and professionals through active student organizations, including Pre-Med, Pre-Vet, Pre-Dental and the Neuroscience Club, that support your academic, professional and career goals.

Ways to get involved

The Akron Advantage

Research from day one. Clinical experiences close to campus. Pathways to medical school. That's the Akron Advantage.

If your goal is a career in medicine, Akron helps you get there sooner. Through partnerships with leading professional schools, qualified students can pursue early assurance pathways to Northeast Ohio Medical University or early acceptance pathways to the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape.

Located within three minutes of three major leading health systems, including Akron Children's Hospital, Summa Health and Cleveland Clinic Akron General, you'll have convenient access to internships, shadowing experiences, research opportunities and professional networks.

Through our innovative Tiered Mentoring Program, you'll connect with faculty, graduate students and peer mentors to gain research, internship and clinical experiences early in your academic journey. By your second year, you'll mentor the next cohort of students while building leadership skills and strengthening your résumé.

If your goal is a career in medicine, Akron helps you get there sooner. Through partnerships with leading professional schools, qualified students can pursue early assurance pathways to Northeast Ohio Medical University or early acceptance pathways to the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape.

Located within three minutes of three major leading health systems, including Akron Children's Hospital, Summa Health and Cleveland Clinic Akron General, you'll have convenient access to internships, shadowing experiences, research opportunities and professional networks.

Through our innovative Tiered Mentoring Program, you'll connect with faculty, graduate students and peer mentors to gain research, internship and clinical experiences early in your academic journey. By your second year, you'll mentor the next cohort of students while building leadership skills and strengthening your résumé.

Field Studies Class

A living laboratory beyond campus

Trade the classroom for the field. Located within the 411-acre Bath Nature Preserve, the University of Akron Field Station gives students hands-on opportunities to conduct research, study ecosystems and investigate real-world environmental challenges alongside faculty experts.

Field Class

Expand your perspective and your experience

Through faculty-led field courses and travel opportunities, including immersive experiences in Sitka, Alaska, you'll explore diverse ecosystems firsthand while applying what you learn beyond the classroom.

Zippy Cap and Gown

Ready to become a Zip?

Your future starts here. Visit campus, explore scholarships and financial aid opportunities, and discover what life is like at The University of Akron. When you're ready, submit your application and take the next step toward earning your biology degree.