Biology

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

Biology is the study of life and all its remarkable forms and processes.  Drake University’s biology program uses an inquiry-based and integrated approach throughout the curriculum, instead of traditional lectures and labs.  This modern approach engages students in scientific methods and research from the first year of study, giving you, the student, a jump-start on developing skills in research, critical thinking, scientific communication, and data analysis.

Your coursework toward a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology will expose you to microscopic cells, complex ecosystems, and everything in between (and beyond).  Drake’s biology curriculum is designed to provide your with a strong foundation of biological understanding in a variety of areas- but you have the ability to delve more deeply into disciplines of your choosing to prepare for graduate or professional programs.

Drake’s 11 biology professors are experts in their fields, hold the highest degrees they can earn, engage undergraduates in their active research programs, and –above all– are dedicated to teaching at all academic levels.  Their myriad areas of expertise include: cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, virology, microbiology, immunology, anatomy and developmental biology, reproductive neuroendocrinology, exercise and sport physiology, animal behavior, ornithology, evolutionary biology, prairie and plant ecology, and ethnobotany.

Careers and Internships

A degree in biology will prepare you for both advanced studies and a career after graduation. Students who earn a B.S. or B.A. degree in biology and who meet the entrance requirements may apply to schools of medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, chiropractic medicine, veterinary medicine, physical therapy or other health related programs. Further opportunities include advanced study in graduate school or career positions with industry, government or private agencies in biologically related fields such as biotechnology, conservation biology, marine science, environmental science, agriculture, and forensic science.

As a biology major, you will have opportunities to apply what you are learning through individualized internship opportunities both on campus and in Des Moines, Iowa's capital and largest city. In addition to performing research with biology faculty, our students have recently held internships at Des Moines University (medical school), Pioneer Hi-Bred, Kemin Industries, Des Moines Blank Park Zoo, local clinics and hospitals, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, and other venues near Drake or their hometowns. 

Student Involvement

Drake biology students are often involved in Tri-Beta (Beta Beta Beta) National Biological Honor Society, Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) Premedical Honor Society, and the Drake Pre-Medical Organization.  Students participating in the Drake Environmental Action League are committed to increasing awareness and stainability on Drake's campus. The Drake Outdoor Leadership Club promotes student opportunities and participation in outdoor recreation and service projects.

As a Drake student, you will also have the opportunity to present your personal research at the annual Drake University Conference on Undergraduate Research in the Sciences (DUCURS) as well as regional and national meetings. Drake also offers you the opportunity to participate in the Drake University Science Collaborative Institute (DUSCI), an on-campus network of faculty and research students.

Biology Requirements

You can choose to earn a B.A. and B.S. degree in biology, or a minor in biology. The B.A. requires a minimum of 32 credit hours in biology, which must include six courses having laboratory experiences and at least one course from each of five biological spheres: molecular and cellular processes, biological diversity, systems biology, ecology/evolution, and applications of biological principles.  Majors also complete required courses in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and a course in calculus, statistics, or computer science. The B.S. degree requires all of the requirements above, plus students collaborate with a faculty advisor to conduct an additional significant amount of research in the form of an undergraduate thesis.

A biology minor requires completion of 20 credit hours in biology, which must include at least three biology laboratory courses. A minimum grade-point average of 2.00 must be achieved, and credit/no-credit courses may not be used for the minor. The program for the biology minor must be approved by the chair of the Biology Department.

Honors

• Fae M Shawhan Fine Forceps Award
• George C. Huff Freshman Biology Award
• Fae M. Shawhan Pre-Medical Award
• Luther Sherman Ross Award
• Frances Rogers Student Research Award

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