Biology
Get ready to dive into the world of biology! With the Bachelor of Science in Biology, you’ll explore life from the ground up through hands-on lab experiments, real-world case studies, and exciting research projects. It’s more than just studying science — it’s applying the knowledge learned and seeing science come to life.
Students planning to attend medical, dental, veterinary, physical therapy, and physician assistants programs often major in Biology. The degree program prepares students to work as biologists, enter graduate school, attend professional schools, and more.
Key Program Features
Gain strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical expertise through immersive coursework and interdisciplinary learning
Prepare for careers in research, healthcare, environmental science, and biotechnology, or advance to graduate and professional schools
Engage in interdisciplinary research that connects biology with phyiscal and mathematical sciences to address complex global challenges
Program Details
In our program, you’ll dive into hands-on science from the start—learning by doing, not just memorizing facts. You’ll build real skills that employers and grad schools are looking for, all while gaining a strong understanding of how science works in the real world. Our classes are designed to help you really get the material and apply it in the lab, not just cram for tests. You’ll also have the chance to work on cool research projects that connect biology with math, chemistry, and other sciences to tackle real scientific questions. Plus, we take learning beyond the classroom, giving you chances to explore how biology shows up in the environment and communities around us.
Our program encompasses learning outside the classroom. Students take field trips to North Carolina Aquariums at Jeanette Pier and Kure Beach, Carolina Tiger Rescue, Duke Lemur Center, Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation, and Rachel Carson Living Seashore to further enhance classroom learning with hands-on experiences.
Our majors are also actively involved in scientific outreach through the community including STEM on the Green, an event that hosts over 700 3rd grade students on the UMO campus for an interactive science fair as well as UMObile Laboratory, our mobile STEM lab.
Our faculty hosts the annual Lorelle F. Martin Lecture, bringing in speakers from all over the country to interact with our students.
Scholarships are available, ranging between $1000 – 2500/year. Please click below to learn more.
Math and Science Scholarship
Duke Progress Energy Scholarship
Coming soon!
Coming soon!
UMO offers STEM related outreach opportunities, engaging both UMO students and younger students in our community. Click here to learn more!
“UMO’s Biology program gave me a strong scientific foundation and hands-on lab experience that directly prepared me for my career in clinical research. The smaller class sizes and supportive faculty created a personalized learning environment where professors truly invested in my success. As a transfer student, I immediately felt a real sense of community at UMO. The research opportunities, mentorship, and academic challenges exceeded my expectations and shaped my career path.
Today, in my role as an Associate Scientist at IQVIA Laboratories in Research Triangle Park, I use the skills I gained at UMO daily—scientific writing, problem solving, teamwork, and professionalism. UMO not only prepared me academically but also gave me the confidence and tools to succeed in the corporate science environment. My advice to future students: take full advantage of the resources UMO offers, get involved early, and never stop asking questions. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone!”
– Abby Kornegay, Biology Graduate, 2022
What Can You Do With a Biology Degree?
Laboratory & Research Careers
- Biological Technician
- Research Assistant
- Laboratory Technologist
- Microbiology Lab Assistant
- Environmental Lab Technician
Environmental & Field-Based Careers
- Environmental Scientist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Conservation Biologist
- Park Ranger
- Marine Biologist
- Ecologist
- Forestry Technician
- Natural Resource Manager
Biotechnology & Industry Careers
- Quality Control Analyst
- Biotech Lab Technician
- Clinical Research Associate
- Bioinformatics Technician
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Education & Communication Careers
- High School Biology Teacher (with teaching certification)
- Science Communicator or Writer
- Outreach Coordinator for Science Organizations
- Museum Educator
- Environmental Educator
Other Related Paths
- Forensic Science Technician
- Public Health Analyst
- Science Policy Analyst
- Graduate School (Master’s or Ph.D. in Biology or related field)
Get Started on Your Biology Degree
Take the next step in your career by earning your Biology Degree from North Carolina’s University of Mount Olive.
