UNCP biology students with a heart
BSConcentrationMinor

Biology

Curious about how living things work? The Bachelor of Science in Biology at UNC Pembroke gives you a strong base in life sciences and the freedom to specialize. Whether you want to go to medical school, work in research, teach or help the environment, you’ll find a path that fits your goals. Study everything from molecular biology to agriculture. Get one-on-one support, hands-on research experience, internships and other unique opportunities.

Focus Areas

Agricultural Science, General, Biomedical, Biotechnology, Botany, Environmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Pre-Physical Therapy, Zoology

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BS in Biology

With multiple tracks and emphases, this flexible degree lets you dive deep into what inspires you. Choose from nine areas of focus and tailor your studies to your future career or graduate school path.

Gain a biology foundation while exploring food systems, plant science and sustainable practices. 

This emphasis prepares you for careers in:

  • Agribusiness
  • Food safety
  • Environmental science
  • Graduate study in agricultural fields

Course Requirements

Ideal for those who want a broad base in biology. This flexible path is great preparation for graduate programs or general life science careers.

Course Requirements

Focus on human biology, health sciences and disease. Prepare for careers in healthcare, clinical research or medical school.

Course Requirements

This track combines biology with technology. Develop skills in molecular research, lab techniques and bioengineering. This path is great for those interested in pharmaceuticals, biotech firms or advanced lab work.

Course Requirements

Explore plant life from the cellular to the ecosystem level. This emphasis prepares you for careers in conservation, agriculture or ecological research.

Course Requirements

Learn how living things interact with their environment. Get ready for careers in conservation, environmental consulting or ecology-focused graduate programs.

Course Requirements

Dig into the structure and function of biological molecules and how they influence genetics, development and disease. A strong pathway to graduate research or biotech careers.

Course Requirements

Designed for those planning to apply to physical therapy school. Courses focus on anatomy, physiology and biology, which are the foundations for a career in movement science.

Course Requirements

Focus on animal biology, behavior and classification. Great preparation for careers in wildlife biology, vet school or ecological research.

Course Requirements

Minor in Biology

Pursue a minor in biology by completing 18–20 credit hours in core and elective biology coursework. This flexible option strengthens your foundation in life sciences. It pairs well with majors in health, education or environmental science.

UNCP student and teacher biology lab
Minor Requirements
UNCP Biology students doing research in the field

Academic Concentration in Biology

The academic concentration in biology adds 26 credit hours of focused courses to strengthen your life science background. It’s designed for education majors and students in other fields.

agriculture unc pembroke
Concentration Requirements
zoology lab unc pembroke

 

Hands-On Learning, Personalized Support

In the Biology department at UNCP, you’ll find your community through hands-on research, supportive faculty mentorship and academic resources designed to help you thrive in the lab, the classroom and beyond.
UNCP student in the Biotech center

Cutting-Edge Research

Whether you're exploring molecular biology, studying plant science and bio-remediation, or conducting ecology research in local wetlands, you'll be part of a collaborative research culture grounded in mentorship, inquiry and discovery. Along the way, you’ll build technical skills, work with advanced lab technology and take part in research that contributes to real scientific progress.
Note with the word Scholarship on it

Biology Scholarships

Several scholarships are available for biology majors. They're based on merit, need and career goals. These awards help make a valuable degree even more affordable. Explore current openings and application timelines through UNCP’s scholarship portal.

Let Biology Lead You
To a Career in Healthcare

Our exclusive partnerships provide pathways to professional schools. These often include scholarships and guaranteed seats at some of the most competitive graduate school programs. A Biology degree is a great place to start if you want to pursue a career in medicine, pharmacy, dental or veterinary medicine — just to name a few! 

 

After UNCP

UNCP Biology Alum, Lindsay Branch in Bio lab
My professors and advisors took the time to sit with me and talk through what would be expected of me in medical school and things I can do to in preparation for the next chapter of my life.

Lindsay Branch '24

Biology student with Biomedical emphasis

Common Careers

A biology degree from UNC Pembroke opens the door to diverse career paths in science, healthcare, education, research and environmental stewardship. Whether you plan to enter the workforce or pursue graduate or professional school, biology gives you the foundation to grow and lead in high-impact fields. 

  • Research Scientist
  • Environmental Scientist

  • Biomedical Research Assistant

  • Wildlife Biologist

  • Medical Technologist
  • Conservation Biologist
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Biotechnology Researcher
  • Physician, Dentist or Veterinarian (with advanced study)
Connect with Career Services

 

Want to learn more?

Our Admissions counselors are here to answer any questions you have.

or call us at 910.521.6262

Send us a message and one of our counselors will get back to you

 

Department Chair

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Velinda Woriax

Chair and Professor of Biology


910.521.6567
Biology Faculty & Staff

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