Biology FAQs

The number one criterion for a biology major is curiosity. If you are someone who asks the question, “Why is the world the way it is?” then biology may be for you. Of course, it helps if you are passionate about science and are not afraid to pick up a cockroach and let it crawl around in your hand.

The Department of Biology can offer you small classes, wonderful faculty with diverse interests in biology, remarkable facilities, challenging curriculum, an exceptional Nature Center and so much more.

Introductory courses average around 28 students, while enrollment in upper level courses ranges from 8-60.

Expect to have your mind opened to the complexity and beauty of the natural world. You will learn all about the natural world from cells to ecosystems and how they all work individually and in conjunction that makes life on Earth so diverse. Most importantly, you will learn how to apply the scientific method to solve new problems, answer new questions and generate new knowledge and academia.

Students who chose to major in biology at the University of Mount Union will have endless opportunities to get “real-world” experiences outside the classroom. By getting involved in extracurricular organizations and field experiences, you can strengthen your skills and knowledge in biology, both of which are critical to career success.

Mount Union’s biology curriculum consists of 128 credit hours and is designed to be completed in four academic years. Biology majors can take courses such as Microbiology, the Diversity of Life, Immunology, Aquatic Ecology, Ecotoxicology, Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Organic Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I & II and an internship in Biology.

Biology majors have many experiential learning opportunities that allow them to put classroom knowledge to work. These hands-on experiences include research and laboratory experience in Bracy Hall of Science and exclusive access to Mount Union’s 142-acre Nature Center.

Beta Beta Beta is a national biology honor society on Mount Union’s campus. The Xi Zeta Chapter was established at Mount Union in 2001, and is a society specifically for students who are dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological study and extending boundaries of human knowledge through scientific research. Members must be biology majors or environmental biology majors and must have completed at least three hours of non-introductory classes in the biological sciences with an average grade of B in all biology classes at the time of initiation.

Students for Environmental Awareness (SEA) is a student-led organization on Mount Union’s campus. SEA provides students, faculty, staff and community members with the opportunity to work together to promote the protection of the environment, educate the public regarding environmental concerns and encourage practices that benefit the earth. This organization is an active environmental group on campus and is open to any interested student.

Darwin’s Birthday Party is celebrated each year on February 12 on Mount Union’s campus. In celebration of Charles Darwin’s birthday, biology students and faculty members watch movies, participate in Darwin trivia games and eat birthday cake.

Association of Pre-Physician Assistant Students (APPAS)
Interested in the physician assistant graduate program? The purpose of APPAS is to promote educational experiences and provide a route for students seeking to pursue continued education as a Physician Assistant (PA). APPAS provides members opportunities for shadowing, volunteering and patient care as it relates to the PA profession. The organization seeks to help undergraduate students prepare for the application and interview process required for entry into a PA program.

According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, employment in the field of biology is projected to increase 21 percent through the year 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations, and it’s biotechnological research and development that is driving job growth. The extraordinarily high degree of hands-on involvement provided by the Mount Union Biology Program will prepare you for a variety of careers in this growing field. No matter what your path, the combination of classroom theory and practical experience will prepare you for whatever follows graduation, as it has students of the past, including many prominent health professionals and researchers.

Yes. The chair of the Department of Biology, in collaboration with the Office of the Registrar, will review your transcripts to determine what equivalent credits will transfer to Mount Union.

You may contact the Office of Admission at admission@mountunion.edu.

You may contact Dr. Kim Risley, chair of the Department of Biology, at (330) 823-3656 or risleykm@mountunion.edu.