Biology Major

Major in biology and make your own discoveries

As a Biology major at Carlow University, learn the scientific principles of living organisms, conduct student research, and prepare for your dream career or graduate studies in the healthcare, research or environmental fields.

Concentrations are available in:

• Cardiovascular Perfusion: learn to operate heart-lung machines during surgery (dual-degree program)
• Environmental Science & Management: study how biological processes impact the environment and how to manage environmental issues (dual-degree program)
• Human Biology: examine and understand the complexities of humans through a variety of diverse fields

The biology major and its concentrations are offered in an accelerated format, giving you the opportunity to graduate with a dual-degree in as few as five years.

Bachelor of Science in Biology Curriculum

The biology major curriculum covers the entire scope of biological sciences from the structure and function of genes, proteins and cells to the ecology and evolution of organisms. Specializations have been designed to align with your potential career path (cardiovascular perfusion, environmental science & management, human biology).

Before graduating you will have the opportunity to conduct student research and/or complete a hands-on, experiential learning opportunity through the Senior Capstone course. Both provide an advantage for you as you pursue a career or graduate studies.

Choose your concentration

Environmental Science
You will graduate career-ready with this dual-degree program that offers a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Environmental Science and Management. You will study how biological processes impact the environment and how to manage environmental issues in this 3+2 program in collaboration with Duquesne University’s Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences. 

Cardiovascular Perfusion
As you work toward your bachelor’s degree in Biology through Carlow University, you will complete requirements at UPMC Shadyside, while beginning your clinical training. In this accelerated Cardiovascular Perfusion program, you will pursue Biology within the tradition of the liberal arts while accumulating the technical proficiency and professional skills required of health care professionals. 

The Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion is offered in coordination with the UPMC School of Perfusion. Up to 15 students per year are accepted into the Master of Science program. 

Human Biology
Through this holistic and interdisciplinary scientific study, you will examine and understand the complexities of humans through a variety of diverse fields. Be prepared to enter professional training in all areas of health care, including medicine, dentistry, optometry, osteopathy, physician’s assistant, physical therapy, pharmacy and podiatry. 

Quick Facts

• Pursue a concentration that interests you (cardiovascular perfusion, environmental science & management, human biology)
• Be prepared to pursue a career or graduate studies
• Apply for an early acceptance program with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

Alternate degree completion option

Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year. 

Admission requirements and application process

Alternate degree completion option

Accelerated

Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Biology faculty

Frank Ammer, PhD Chair, Professor, Biology

Joseph Acierno Assistant Professor

Mark Barsic Lab Manager & C.H.O.

Stephen Borecky, PhD Professor, Biology

Meredith Eyre, MS Lab Instructor, Biology

Marissa Nocera Assistant Professor

Amy Romesberg, PhD Assistant Professor, Undergraduate Biology

Beth Surlow, PhD Assistant Professor, Undergraduate Biology