BS in Biological Sciences

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Healthcare

Program

BS in Biological Sciences

Current Education Level

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Country

United States

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Overview

Build a Future Exploring Life, Nature and Scientific Discovery

The Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences degree program at GCU offers a science track focused on animal and environmental conservation, designed to help you pursue a career in STEM. This program could be a good fit for those who are curious about the natural world and who aspire to protect the environment by applying biological principles.

This bachelor’s in biological sciences program takes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating fields such as conservation biology, chemistry, ecology and genetics. As a student, you will be taught a comprehensive curriculum that merges instruction from experienced faculty with practical, hands-on learning opportunities. This blended approach is aimed at equipping graduates for early careers in the field.

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Become a Responsible Steward of Natural Resources

GCU’s mission is to prepare our students to make a positive impact on the world by encouraging them to become ethical servant leaders and responsible stewards of our planet. Offered by the College of Natural Sciences, this biological sciences degree helps you explore how to bridge theory and application for the purpose of promoting environmental welfare and the conservation of natural resources. You will have opportunities to develop both technical skills in the field, as well as soft skills like critical thinking and effective communication — all of which you may find helpful as you work toward promoting positive transformation of the world around you.

Integrate Faith and Science

As a private Christian university, GCU strives to deepen our students’ understanding of God and the universe, fostering inquiry at the intersection of faith and science. Here, you will take faith-integrated courses that are rooted in a Christian worldview. Your faith may guide the way you approach complex thoughts, ideas and practices through scientific exploration and discovery. You will have the chance to engage in discussions about ethics and values related to biological and natural science, as well as advanced topics that connect faith and science.

Christian Worldview

Campus Offerings for Biological Sciences Majors

The GCU campus provides STEM-focused learning facilities that include fully equipped labs. From the start of your program, you will have access to lab equipment and tools that support experiential learning. You can benefit from face-to-face learning interactions and enjoy all that our vibrant campus culture has to offer — from events and club activities to popular dining options to help you refuel between classes.

Campus Life

Coursework

Discover Genetic Principles, Animal Behavior and Ecosystem Science

The BS in Biological Sciences curriculum introduces you to general biology, chemistry and fundamental physics principles, along with coursework focused specifically on ecology and conservation and the fauna that inhabit the natural world.

Many courses include both a lecture and a lab component, which can help you apply the theories and concepts taught in class to practical projects. Similarly, you will explore topics relevant to applied fieldwork, including data collection and analysis. The program concludes with a capstone course, allowing you to utilize what you have been taught in a hands-on project, with the opportunity to work with external agencies, focused on a specific area of interest within the biological sciences.

As you progress through the program, you will explore topics such as:

Genetics principles

Biodiversity and animal diversity

Cross-disciplinary applications of biology

Ecosystem science

Complexities of animal behavior

Conservation-focused biology

What Our Dean Has To Say

"In every discipline, GCU natural sciences students gain access to laboratories and specialized equipment to enhance their educational experience beyond the confines of the classroom."

Dr. Mark Wooden

Dean of the College of Natural Sciences

"In every discipline, GCU natural sciences students gain access to laboratories and specialized equipment to enhance their educational experience beyond the confines of the classroom."

Dr. Mark Wooden

Dean of the College of Natural Sciences

Careers

Career Paths for Biological Sciences Majors

This degree can help prepare graduates to pursue careers in STEM fields. It may also lead to graduate-level studies in areas such as biological research, biotechnology, wildlife management and other related fields.

The below career paths may have different requirements, and some may require further education, but a biological sciences bachelor’s degree can be a starting point from which to pursue a variety of career paths in science.

Potential career opportunities include:

Forester

Natural sciences manager

Biological technician

Life, physical and social science technician

Forest and conservation technician

Museum technician and conservator

9,100

Estimated number of new openings for biological technicians expected each year from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 1)}

$52,000

Median annual wage for biological technicians in May 2024^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Accreditation

Earn Your Biological Sciences Degree From an Accredited University

Our mission is to deliver quality education to our students that prepares them to make a positive impact on their chosen field and their communities. GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Natural Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions about our BS in Biological Sciences degree to help you make an informed decision about your educational journey.

What is a biological sciences degree?

A bachelor’s in biological sciences explores life systems, processes and living organisms. It focuses on how life works and adapts to different environments, as well as how different living organisms and systems interact with each other. The biological sciences are a group of interconnected fields, including microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, zoology and ecology, just to name a few.

What’s the difference between a biological sciences and biology degree?

Although the terms biological sciences and biology are often used interchangeably and are closely related, they are not exactly the same. A biology degree specifically focuses on living organisms, exploring their functions, structures, behavior, origin and evolution. It is a broad field that covers everything from the microscopic organization of cells to large ecosystems, such as oceans.

As far-ranging as biology is, biological sciences have an even broader scope. This umbrella term includes multiple related disciplines, such as genetics, ecology, zoology and microbiology. Because of this, a biological sciences degree will include coursework in many different, interconnected disciplines.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Is biological sciences a good major?

Majoring in biological sciences could be a good choice for students interested in understanding living organisms, the natural world and environmental conservation. It teaches a strong foundation in biology, chemistry and scientific principles that apply to practical scenarios. The curriculum may involve extensive laboratory work, research and analysis of scientific data. This major can serve as a solid prerequisite for advanced studies. It can be a worthwhile choice for those passionate about science and discovery who are interested in pursuing STEM careers.

What can you do with a biological sciences degree?

After earning a bachelor’s in biological sciences, you may have the opportunity to explore a variety of career paths in areas like research, education and environmental conservation. Some potential career options could include positions as a life, physical and social science technician, a natural sciences manager or a biological technician. Note that some careers may require additional schooling or training. Biological sciences majors may choose to further their education by pursuing a graduate degree in biology or related fields.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for natural sciences managers to increase by about 4% from 2024 to 2034, as fast as average, accounting for an estimated increase of 3,900 new jobs in the field.^{(See disclaimer 4)} Furthermore, in May 2024, natural sciences managers had a median annual wage of $161,180, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major64 credits

Open Elective Credits16-22 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

BIO-181

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.

BIO-181L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.

BIO-182

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of organization. Relationships of different life forms are studied, noting characteristics and general lifecycles of the different types of organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. Plant structure, function, and reproduction are studied, as well as photosynthesis and plant nutrition. Ecological principles are discussed, including organism interactions at the various ecological levels. Principles of conservation are introduced. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182L.

BIO-182L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This lab is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-182. Organisms are examined to recognize similarities and differences among different types. Plant structure and processes, including photosynthesis and water transport, are investigated through observation and activities. Concepts of ecology are explored through study of species interactions projects and other activities. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182.

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

PHY-105

3 Total Credits

Course Description

Fundamental Physics focuses on the intersection of physics and biology focusing on physics as it relates to life, from the molecules to living organisms. Students will explore the ways in which fundamental laws of physics which direct biological organization at every level by limiting cellular processes. The ultimate focus will be on basic models that enable students to quantify the innate randomness and variability of cellular processes. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-105L.

PHY-105L

1 Total Credits

MAT-274

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.

BIO-320

3 Total Credits

BIO-320L

1 Total Credits

SCI-328

4 Total Credits

BIO-342

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This courses introduces students to biological change at multiple levels of life, including molecular, cellular, organismal, and population. Students will gain an understanding of the mechanisms of change and how they work, as well as the patterns that result by examining molecular and organismal data, geological time, fossil evidence, and the history of Earth and man. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.

BIO-326

4 Total Credits

BIO-257

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course explores the principles of Mendelian and molecular genetics, focusing on the relationship of inheritance to biological function at multiple levels: molecular, cellular, and with multicellular organisms. By examining the multiple levels of genetic organization, students will master concepts related to patterns of inheritance, genetic relationships across species, and biotechnological applications. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.

BIO-415

3 Total Credits

BIO-415L

1 Total Credits

BIO-328

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines the complexities of animal behaviors and how we study them. Specifically, students will develop an understanding of how animals learn and communicate with each other, as well as other behaviors to help them survive and thrive in their natural habitats, by integrating concepts, theories, and models of the discipline with behavioral analyses and an historical perspective. Prerequisites: BIO-182 and BIO-182L. Co-Requisite: BIO-328L.

BIO-328L

1 Total Credits

BIO-420

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Conservation biology systematically and scientifically studies biological diversity and the events and processes that affect the maintenance, loss, and recovery of biological diversity. This courses delves into the concepts and theories behind biological diversity and environmental conservation. As an interdisciplinary field, students will also consider perspectives from ecology, economics, psychology, sociology, and financing. Prerequisites: BIO-320 and BIO-320L.

BIO-479

4 Total Credits

BIO-487

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive capstone course requires students to integrate and apply what they have learned in their program. To do this, students will engage in projects and assignments that will demonstrate the knowledge and research skills gained in the program, including literature review, developing a research project, data collection and analysis, and written and oral communication of findings. Prerequisite: SCI-328 or BIO-415 or BIO-457 or CHM-420.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Study the Foundations of Modern Biology

Equip yourself for a biology career that is focused on the ecology and conservation of the natural world. Apply online to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at GCU.

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COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Biological Technicians, retrieved October 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Biological Technicians as of May 2024, retrieved October 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as biological technicians, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
Foster, J. (2023, Nov. 5). Is Biological Science the Same as Biology? Comparing the Fields. Jamie Foster Science. Retrieved October 2025.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Natural Sciences Managers, retrieved October 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Natural Sciences Managers as of May 2024, retrieved October 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as natural sciences managers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.