BS in Biological Sciences
BS in Biological Sciences
Start your GCU
journey today.
journey today.
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.
Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
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).
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.
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.
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.
"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."
"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."
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.
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
Find answers to frequently asked questions about our BS in Biological Sciences degree to help you make an informed decision about your educational journey.
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.
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.3
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.
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.4 Furthermore, in May 2024, natural sciences managers had a median annual wage of $161,180, according to the BLS.5
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.
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
Estimated number of new openings for biological technicians expected each year from 2024 to 20341
Median annual wage for biological technicians in May 20242
