The B.A. in Biology provides the liberal education and the special preparation required for careers in university teaching, government service, independent and industrial research, science-related sales and public relations, and other areas of business. This program also prepares students for admission to graduate and professional schools. The possibility of 26 semester hours of free electives enables the student to obtain a minor in another area of interest.

The B.S. in Biology can be individually tailored to provide the skills that students need to achieve their career goals. This program also provides the basic preparation needed for entry into graduate or professional school, including physical therapy programs.

The B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology offers the student a strong background in both biology and chemistry. Emphasis on lab-oriented courses prepares the student to pursue a career in laboratory research in cell and molecular biology at industrial, medical, academic, and government facilities. This program also prepares the student for admission to graduate and professional schools.

The B.S. in Ecology provides an opportunity for interested students to obtain a strong background in field biology. The required core curriculum and concentration electives provide opportunities for later careers as biologists in state and federal environmental agencies, industry, marine biology or environmental consulting firms. Internships are strongly recommended as part of the program. Course work emphasizes skills obtained in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Additional course work from other departments may be recommended to fulfill particular career objectives.

The B.S. in Microbiology prepares students for careers in research laboratories, industrial and academic research, and government service in the areas of bacteriology, immunology, virology, mycology, microbial ecology, and parasitology. The program provides extensive laboratory experience with the techniques that are most useful and important to modern microbiolical science. This program also provides the basic preparation needed for entry into graduate or professional schools.

The Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology offers an unique opportunity for biology majors to enter the field of medical technology. A medical technologist is educated to perform, verify, and interpret a wide variety of laboratory analyses in hematology, immunology, and microbiology. They often supervise medical technicians, and because they have a B.S. they can often advance to positions in management, research, and education.

Under special advisement, students complete all of the necessary general education requirements of the B.S. in biology program in three years. The fourth year is spent in a medical technologist internship program at one of several affiliated hospitals. To qualify for the internship, a student must have an overall GPA of 2.75, a science GPA of 2.50, and approval of the Department of Biology and the affiliated hospital. Students completing the internship graduate with a B.S. and the preparation to take the national Medical Technologist Certification Exam.

Affiliated hospitals include Pennsylvania Hopital, Reading Hospital, and Graduate Hospital. It also may be possible to complete the internship at a non-affiliated hospital. Students are encouraged to consult the medical technology adviser at regular intervals.

The B.S. in Education is a program designed to prepare the student for a career in teaching in secondary schools. Professional certification in biology is awarded to the student who completes the program satisfactorily. Students are strongly advised to seek certification in a related area to enhance their employment potential. Such related areas include general science, health, education, athletic training, and environmental education.

The Department of Biology offers a minor in biology.