Biology BS - Organismal Sciences Track
Drawn to whole organisms, ecosystems, and how life works in the field? The Organismal Sciences track gives you wide-ranging training in zoology, botany, ecology, and evolution, with field and lab work that prepares you for graduate study or science careers.
Program Overview
The Organismal Biology Track within Shawnee State University’s Bachelor of Science in Biology degree is designed for students who seek a wide-ranging education in the biological sciences. This track offers depth and diversity across biological subdisciplines, preparing graduates for entry into graduate programs, medical or professional schools, or directly into the scientific workforce.
Students in this track explore the structure, function, evolution, and ecology of living organisms—both plant and animal. The program is especially suited for those who are passionate about the natural world and interested in disciplines like zoology, botany, environmental science, and evolutionary biology. Unlike other specialized tracks, the Organismal Biology Track gives students the flexibility to explore a broad array of topics while still developing scientific skills and expertise.
Through coursework, lab work, and field experiences, students will develop practical research skills, become proficient with scientific instrumentation, and gain experience applying the scientific method to biological problems. Graduates will be well-prepared for graduate programs or careers in government, conservation, non-profits, or private industry.
Choose a degree with ample research opportunities and one-on-one instruction.
Shawnee State faculty members offer research opportunities for every student enrolled in our program, and work one-on-one with them in several dedicated research lab spaces.
- Seven highly-qualified faculty members. Five with Ph.D.'s in biology, one with a DVM, and one with an M.S. in biology.
- Undergraduate research opportunities every semester.
- Upper-division classes are small, with class sizes typically around 10 – 15 students.
- Graduates have been admitted to graduate, medical, and pharmacy schools at: The Ohio State University, Ohio University, the University of Cincinnati, University of Jacksonville, University of Arizona, and Marshall University.
- We have several active biology clubs within the department that invite speakers to
campus, get involved with the community, and organize social activities.
- Our Tri-Beta Club is the Xi Upsilon chapter of the βββ National Biological Honor Society. They promote research and research activities within the department.
- Field-based research opportunities are available for students, including a two-week research trip to Costa-Rica that occurs during Spring/Summer.
Career Outcomes
How to Apply
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Start your application
Free, takes about 15 minutes.
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Send transcripts
Have your high school guidance counselor send them to admissions@shawnee.edu
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File the FAFSA
School code 009942. Required for Free Tuition.
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Get your decision
Most decisions in under 7 days.
At A Glance
Biology BS - Organismal Sciences Track
Degree
B.S.
Format
On Campus + Field Work
Length
4 years (full-time)
Credits
120
Class Size
12:1
Location
Main Campus (Massie Hall) + Regional Field Sites
Why Study Biology BS - Organismal Sciences Track at Shawnee University
Breadth across the life sciences. You'll cover the structure, function, evolution, and ecology of plants and animals, with room to explore where your curiosity leads.
Strong fieldwork. Courses in ecology, evolution, and organismal biology pair classroom learning with outdoor and lab investigations.
Research opportunities. You can join faculty-led research, take an internship, or design independent study projects.
Multiple destinations. The track sets you up for graduate study, professional school, or direct entry into conservation, wildlife, or environmental work.
The 120-credit track is heavier on biology breadth (53 credits) and lighter on prescribed support courses, leaving you room to shape the degree around your goals.
- Biology curriculum (53 credits): Foundation (14), Biology Electives (16), Organismal track courses (7 - Ecology and Evolution), Organismal track electives (16)
- Math and support sciences (22-23 credits), including Physics I (algebra or calculus-based)
- Communications (3 credits)
- General electives (10-11 credits) to add minors, internships, or research credits
Hands-on learning is built in: ecology, evolution, and organismal courses include outdoor or lab investigations, and you can join faculty research or independent study to go deeper. Many students complete internships with conservation organizations, natural resource agencies, or environmental consultancies.
- Show a strong foundational understanding of biological systems across taxa
- Apply the scientific method to real-world biological problems
- Conduct research using scientific literature and lab instrumentation
- Communicate scientific information clearly in writing and out loud
- Use field and lab data to support claims and solve biological challenges
- Be ready for graduate or professional programs and biology careers
On campus at Shawnee State University, with field experiences across regional natural areas and partnerships with conservation and environmental agencies.
- Zoologist or wildlife biologist
- Botanist or plant scientist
- Conservation or ecological researcher
- Environmental scientist or consultant
- State or federal natural resources roles (e.g., parks, fish and wildlife)
- Graduate study in biology, ecology, or related fields
Graduates work in conservation, government natural resources, environmental consulting, non-profits, and education, or continue into graduate study.
Free Tuition and Financial Aid
Shawnee State's tuition is among the lowest in Ohio, and the Shawnee Advantage Tuition Guarantee keeps your rate flat for four years. Scholarships including Choose Ohio First and the Pell-Eligible Free Tuition Program may also apply.
See if you Qualify for Free Tuition
Ohio students can apply to receive a $1,500 scholarship up to full-tuition when you apply and are accepted.
Learn More about Choose Ohio FirstBiology BS - Organismal Sciences Track Frequently Asked Questions
Graduates work in zoology, botany, conservation biology, environmental science, wildlife management, and more.
Yes. It builds strong foundations for graduate study in biological sciences or related disciplines.
Yes. You can work with faculty or enroll in BIOL 4495 for independent study projects.
It's the broadest of the biology tracks, designed for students who want a wide foundation in the life sciences with room to explore.
Program handbook
Contact the Department of Natural Sciences for the current biology program handbook.
Accreditation
Shawnee State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
