Biology Major: Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology

Gwynedd Mercy University’s biology major emphasizes molecular and cellular biology, genetics and biochemistry. Our rigorous and interdisciplinary bachelor of science in biology degree includes physical sciences coursework in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology.  Here, you will learn directly from experienced, full-time faculty members with doctorate degrees ─ GMercyU does not have teaching assistants (TAs) like other biology colleges. That means richer learning opportunities in the classroom, the laboratory and the field.

Biology Major Success

For the past 11 years, GMercyU biology degree graduates have scored above the national average on the ETS Major Field Test, making it a top biology school in the area. In 2018, GMercyU students ranked in the top 5% in cellular biology, the top 18% in molecular biology and in the top 18% overall among all other institutions whose seniors took the test.

The GMercyU Difference

Gwynedd Mercy University offers biology majors a compelling mix of educational advantages you won’t find at other biology colleges.  While earning your bachelor of science in biology at GMercyU, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Gain real-world experience through internship placements with companies like Johnson & Johnson and Emerson Diagnostic
• Complete an independent research project - as an undergraduate
• Take the Major Field Test in Biology prior to graduation
• Prepare for a competitive doctorate program admissions process 
• Learn to teach others ─ through our School of Business and Education, you can earn a Secondary Education Certification in Biology in accordance with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education requirements.

Research & Labs

GMercyU's biology school offers exciting learning experiences. Laboratories include a wide array of modern instrumentation and facilities for biology and chemistry, including thermal cyclers,  electrophoresis equipment, and a research room with tissue culture hoods used for work in cell culture, just to name a few.

Every required course has a laboratory component, resulting in an experience that will help you stand out from other bachelor of science in Biology major graduates when you apply to graduate programs or for jobs after graduation. Here, you have the chance to present research, contribute to publications, and even receive a financial stipend for summer research. 

Examples of current research projects:

• Studying ecological and pathological effects of parasitic infections in freshwater fish 
• Studying how the brain’s neuroimmune cells contribute to alcohol-induced brain dysfunction and degeneration
• Contributing to a continental research project focusing on the search for new antibiotics secreted by soil-dwelling bacteria
• Identifying bioactive molecules produced by bacteria and fungi

Summer Research

Gwynedd Mercy University Biology degree students worked on various research projects this summer. For example, they took taking fish samples from a local stream and evaluated different factors such as how the immune system reacts to pollution. GMercyU is among the top biology schools in the area who emphasize real-world, hands-on experience for their students.
 

Forge Your Own Path

Students in GMercyU's biology major are encouraged to explore careers that interest them. Jordie Abelson, for example, plans to pursue a career in political health science after graduation when she obtains her bachelor of science in biology. Check out Jordie's student vlog series! 

Undergraduate Minors 

Increase the value of your degree by adding an undergraduate minor. GMercyU offers a wide variety of minors so you can choose the one that best meets your personal and professional goals.