The biology major is frequently chosen by students with career interests related to medicine, environmental science, biological research and teaching and secondary education in the sciences. Qualified Winthrop students in biology are accepted for postgraduate study in many fields, including medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physical therapy, physiology, microbiology, ecology, environmental science, botany, zoology and medical technology.
Students who complete the curriculum in the biology major will receive a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology degree. The BS degree requires 42 credit hours of BIOL courses with some chemistry, mathematics, and science electives in addition to general education courses for a total of 120 credit hour
The Bachelor of Science in Biology program at Winthrop University provides students with comprehensive training across the biological sciences. The curriculum offers the option to pursue specialized concentrations in areas such as biomedical research and conservation biology, allowing students to align their academic experience with their career interests.
The program emphasizes close faculty-student interaction, with laboratory classes typically limited to 20–24 students. This structure fosters a collaborative learning environment and supports individualized instruction. Graduates of the Biology program pursue diverse career paths, including medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, conservation, natural resource management, and medical laboratory science.
Students may chose a concentration within the major, which prescribes specific coursework to prepare students for a particular career track.
Minors in Biology and General Science
Winthrop University offers students from other academic disciplines the opportunity to pursue a minor in Biology or General Science, enhancing their scientific knowledge and broadening their career prospects.
Biology Minor
The minor in Biology requires the completion of 18 semester hours in BIOL courses,
including:
General Science Minor
The minor in General Science consists of a minimum of 18 semester hours selected from
BIOL, CHEM, GEOL, or PHYS courses. It must include one of the following physics sequences:
Winthrop University offers academic programs designed to prepare students for professional study in a wide range of fields. These include degree pathways that serve as foundational preparation for advanced study in disciplines such as:
Students interested in these professional tracks are encouraged to work closely with a Department of Biology faculty advisor, who can assist in planning a course of study that meets the specific prerequisites of various professional schools. Through personalized guidance and strategic academic planning, students can position themselves competitively for admission into graduate and professional programs.
Biology majors can complete a secondary education minor to become a certified high school biology teacher with our Teacher Education/Secondary Certification Program.
Whether you are a new graduate continuing your education in a specialized field of study or seasoned professional wishing to capitalize on your years of service in the field, Winthrop University provides an outstanding opportunity for graduate studies in biology. The biology department offers a Master of Science degree with both thesis and non-thesis options. Coursework for either option can be completed within two years by attending evening classes.
