Inside Biology
VCU College of Humanities and Sciences

Inside Biology is part of a series relating majors at VCU to occupational fields. The information in this pamphlet can help you in planning your education and career.

Biology is the study of life and covers all aspects of the structure, function, development, and behavior of microorganisms, plants, and animals. It includes the interrelationships of all living organisms to themselves and to the environment. At VCU, upper-level students might concentrate in one of the following areas: cellular/molecular, animal, plant, or microbial biology or environmental biology/ecology.

Through the general education requirements, taken in the freshman and sophomore years, students typically develop the following skills:

• curiosity and intellectual ability to ask the right questions
• to think critically
• interpersonal skills
• to understand and influence others
• ability to communicate, in writing and orally, along with the ability to analyze and synthesize information
• a breadth of background from the sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and humanities
• a sense of ethics that will not be compromised by immediate personal gain or prejudice

Biology students typically gain these skills through the specific requirements of this major:

• advanced mathematical skills
• ability to operate scientific equipment
• proficiency in laboratory experiments
• ability to conduct and explain scientific research
• a thorough knowledge of biological theories and practices

Sample courses students in biology take include the following:

• Aquatic Ecology
• Cell Biology
• Bacteriology
• Organic Chemistry
• Invertebrate Zoology
• Immunology and Serology
• Animal Physiology
• Genetics
• Ecology
• Plant Development
• Plant Taxonomy
• Introduction to Marine Biology
• Introduction to Research
• Physics

To become more marketable:

• Consider applying to the "Honors in Biology" program.
• Participate in, and take on leadership roles in, extracurricular activities.
• Enroll in the Cooperative Education program to gain valuable work experience in the field.
• Take electives related to your career goals in areas such as business and chemistry or minor in a supporting field (e.g., environmental studies).
• Arrange for an internship or part-time job related to biology.

Typical areas of employment entered by biology majors (with appropriate education and experience) are:

• Biologist
• Botanist
• Criminologist
• Dietitian
• Environmental Analyst
• Ecologist
• Forester
• High School Biology Teacher
• Horticulturist
• Medical Lab Technician
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
• Scientific Writer
• Zoologist

Approximately 50 percent of undergraduates in biology go on to graduate school. Many are admitted to medical, dental, veterinary or other health sciences programs. Students entering Ph.D. programs in biology often pursue careers in college teaching or research. Students wishing to teach (grades K-12) pursue VCU's five-year teacher education program.

Further information is available at the Career Center (Commons, first floor) or through the division:

Virginia Commonwealth University
College of Humanities and Sciences
Department of Biology
Life Sciences Building, 816 Park Ave., Room 202
PO Box 842012
Richmond VA 23284-2012

804-828-1562
Fax: 804-828-0503

This brochure is published by the VCU Career Development Council in cooperation with academic departments.

Back to main page.