Biology Bachelor of Science Degree

RIT’s Biology Bachelor of Science Curriculum

Biologists investigate all aspects of life, from the molecular level to the intricate workings of ecosystems. You’ll start with foundation courses in biology, math, chemistry, and liberal arts, and then immerse yourself in the biological sciences, studying animals, plants, and microorganisms at the levels of molecules, cells, tissues, organisms, populations, and systems.

You will spend time in the laboratory and field learning foundational and high-tech skills in a variety of contexts. Courses like Comparative Animal Physiology, Marine Biology, Cancer Biology, Environmental Biology, Ornithology and Freshwater Ecology are just a few of the electives you may choose from!

And since scientific knowledge is based on research, we encourage our students to participate in undergraduate biology research projects to enhance their educational experience and prepare them for graduate school or full-time employment.

Furthering Your Education in the Biological Sciences

Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees

Students enrolled in the biology bachelor’s degree will be prepared to pursue advanced degrees in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, podiatry, and chiropractic medicine, as well as a wide range of graduate programs in the life sciences. Today’s careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

• Biology BS/Environmental Science MS: In this combined accelerated dual degree pathway, the biology BS degree provides a robust background in molecular, cellular, and ecological disciplines of biology. This dynamic course work is coupled with lab courses that provide hands-on bench skills and access to technology used by industry professionals. Blend your foundation in biology with a master’s in environmental science to add unique field work, interdisciplinary coursework, and cutting edge research that will set you apart when applying for jobs. Graduates of this program are working to address global issues like climate change, habitat loss, species conservation, pollution, and more.
• +1 MBA: Students interested in adding an MBA in one year following their undergraduate degree may do so with careful planning. Learn about possible +1MBA pathways under the “Agreement for all RIT students” and through discussions with +1 MBA Contact. This opportunity is only available to current undergraduate students.

Pre-Med/Pre-Health Advising

RIT’s Office of Pre-Health Advising offers an advising program that’s open to all majors and provides personal, individualized academic counseling to help you create a comprehensive long-term strategy to assist you in building successful applications to medical, dental, and veterinary schools or graduate degrees in the health professions (e.g., occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc.). Our pre-health advisors will have in-depth conversations with you around critical topics that include academic planning and course selection, MCAT and other admission exams, undergraduate research opportunities, clinical experiences and field work, timelines, and much more. Learn more about pre-med/pre-health advising.

Pre-Vet Advising

RIT’s pre-vet advising program provides personalized support to help you prepare successful applications for veterinary medical school. Pre-vet advising offers guidance on course selection, veterinary and animal care experience requirements, the veterinary school application process, and more. Learn about RIT’s pre-vet advising program.

RIT/University of Buffalo’s Early Opportunity Program in Medicine

RIT pre-health/pre-med students have a direct path to medical school through an RIT partnership with the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo (UB). The Early Opportunity Program in Medicine allows eligible RIT students to secure a pre-admission offer to the Jacobs School while completing their undergraduate degree at RIT. Students accepted into the program gain early access to professional training and mentorship at UB’s medical school, helping them prepare for the demands of medical school and beyond. Learn more about the Early Opportunity Program in Medicine.