Bachelor of Science in Biology

Program Overview

Choose a focus area and explore the nature of living organisms, scientific inquiry, and effective science communication.

Program Format

On-Campus

Degree Options

Four-Year BS Program

Time to Complete

  • Full Time: 4 Years
  • Transfer Pathways: 2 Years

Why Major in Biology at AIC?

Biology majors at American International College will focus their studies on one of the following areas: cell and molecular biology, ecology/environmental science, bio-medical (for pre-professional students), zoology, bio-education (for students interested in middle and secondary education), or general biology (a personalized program for students with unique interests).

Graduates from AIC’s biology program have pursued careers in such fields as teaching, wildlife conservation, environmental management, environmental consulting, biotechnology industry, research laboratories, laboratory management, environmental education, forensics, public health, allied health fields, museum/aquarium work and graduate school, as well as medicine, dentistry, podiatry, veterinary medicine, and optometry.

What to Expect

  • Real-world learning: Work closely with your professors to develop a solid background in the core principles of biology, become familiar with the scientific inquiry process, and become an effective science communicator.
  • Technology in the Classroom: Our laboratory spaces across multiple campus buildings offer hands-on experience with access to continuously updated and improved equipment.
  • Teaching assistant opportunities: Guide the learning process as a junior or senior, engaging new students in psychology topics.
  • Jump-start your graduate education: Eligible seniors can take one to two graduate-level courses at the undergraduate rate. As you begin a master’s degree at AIC, your motivation will pay off in terms of time and cost savings.
AIC biology alumna Olivia Magni doing field work in Alaska.

I always wanted to study biology, and I can’t say enough about the biology professors at AIC. Professor Benard especially helped me with a watershed project and presentation I gave at an undergraduate symposium.”

Olivia Magni ‘18
Biology Major

Program Details

AIC’s Bachelor of Science in Biology program prepares you for a broad array of career paths based on your passions and personal aspirations.

  • Students will demonstrate familiarity with the knowledge base comprising the field of biology
  • Students will become familiar with the process of scientific inquiry
  • Students should be able to effectively communicate scientific findings

Major Courses: In addition to AIC Plan for Excellence (APEX) requirements, students must complete all courses listed here to receive a Bachelor of Science in Biology:

  • BIO1400: Biology I, with laboratory
  • BIO1500: Biology II, with laboratory
  • BIO2400: Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy, with laboratory
  • BIO2420: Botany, with laboratory
  • BIO3440: Ecology, with laboratory
  • BIO3450: Genetics, with laboratory
  • BIO4350: Evolution
  • BIO4803: Senior Seminar in Biology

And one of the following courses:

  • BIO2430: Microbiology, with laboratory
  • BIO3400: Cell Biology, with laboratory

All biology majors must complete a minimum of 12 elective credits in biology courses at or above the 3000 level in addition to the required biology core. CHE3200 with laboratory may be accepted as an elective in biology. No more than one semester of BIO4698, 4798, 4833, or 4834 may be counted towards satisfying the requirements of the biology major.

All biology majors must also complete the required core in allied fields:

  • CHE1600: General Chemistry I, with review and laboratory
  • CHE1700: General Chemistry II, with review and laboratory
  • CHE2400: Organic Chemistry I, with laboratory
  • CHE2500: Organic Chemistry II, with laboratory
  • PHY1600: General Physics I, with review and laboratory
  • PHY1800: General Physics II, with review and laboratory
  • MAT2004: Biostatistics

Additionally, all biology majors must complete two of the following courses:

  • MAT1840: College Algebra and Trigonometry
  • MAT2400: Calculus I
  • MAT2500: Calculus II, with laboratory

By appropriate selection of electives, students may focus their studies following areas:

  • Bio-Education (see education department information for professional requirements for teacher education)
  • Biomedical (for students interested in medical professions)
  • Cell and Molecular Biology
  • Ecology/Environmental Science
  • General Biology
  • Zoology

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Minor Courses: Students must complete all courses listed here to earn a Minor in Biology:

  • BIO1400: Biology I, with laboratory
  • BIO1500: Biology II, with laboratory
  • BIO2400: Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy, with laboratory
  • BIO2430: Microbiology, with laboratory
  • BIO3440: Ecology, with laboratory
  • 3000-level Biology elective, with laboratory as required

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Individuals interested in studying Biology at AIC—or exploring related studies in The Science and Technology Hive—will apply for admission as a first-year, transfer, or international student.

Review tuition rates and fees for the upcoming academic year.

Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are awarded based on both need and merit.

AIC’s transfer partnerships with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) provide an uninterrupted path from community college to our bachelor’s in Biology program, as well as a $4,000 per year joint admissions scholarship.

If you have questions on transferring from one of our partner schools, please contact the admissions office at 413.205.3201.

Encouraging holistic involvement, AIC’s campus culture allows everyone to find their place to build connections and fuel their passions:

  • Presentation opportunities: Held each semester, our Undergraduate Research Symposium lets you share your research findings while getting inspiration from your peers.
  • Outdoors Club: Take the opportunity to explore and experience new adventurous activities outside of campus including hiking at local state and regional parks.
  • All student groups: Pursue a hobby or embrace your identity while managing a club’s resources, funds, and goals. Browse all student organizations.
  • Leadership development: Through groups, athletics, service, and outreach, Yellow Jackets explore the art of taking charge and how objectives are achieved through motivation, engagement, and vision. Learn more about leadership development.

Have a Question?

Contact our faculty lead for program-specific questions or email admissions@aic.edu for general college admission requirements.

Robert Benard, MS
Associate Professor of Biology

Phone: 413.205.3354
Email: robert.benard@aic.edu
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Academic and Career Support

AIC gives you the space to explore your interest while preparing you for life after college. Throughout, you’ll work with advisors and mentors to define your academic and professional goals and the ways to achieve them.

What Can You Do with a Biology Degree?

Job Titles

AIC Biology majors begin careers as:

  • Wildlife Conservation Specialists
  • Environmental Technicians
  • Natural Science Managers
  • Life Science Technicians
  • Biological Technicians

Salary Expectations

Each year through 2034, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 144,000 openings in life, physical, and social science, including for:

Where Our Graduates Work

AIC students find their bachelor’s degree in Biology has led them to secure positions with:

  • Baystate Health
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • UMass Chan Medical School
  • US Forestry Service

Related Programs

Whatever educational or career goals are on the horizon, AIC’s programs offer real-world experience to set you on your path:

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At AIC, your passions will lead you on the path to professional success: