Biological Sciences (B.S./B.A.)

FAST FACTS ›

  • We are the largest science major at Clemson.
  • As a Bachelor of Science student, you can pursue a B.S./M.S. degree program and begin working on your master’s in bioengineering as an undergraduate.
  • We have the largest number of students who graduate with departmental honors.
  • Clemson offers a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degree in biological sciences.
ABOUT.

Biology is the study of life, and a major in biology is as diverse as life itself. You may be interested in studying at the cellular level, or you may be interested in looking at mammals as large as elephants. You may want a better understanding of human biology, or you may be more interested in plants. With a major in biological sciences you’ll take on course work that will help you understand the breadth of biology, but you have great flexibility to tailor the program to your specific interests. We offer both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in biological sciences. The Bachelor of Science is a more comprehensive science degree and is preferred for those who wish to pursue scientific careers, enter professional school or continue into graduate programs requiring a strong science foundation. The Bachelor of Arts provides a strong foundation in biology and is ideal for students planning a career in health care, law, policy or secondary science teaching. 

CLASSES.

What you'll study:

The beauty of the biological sciences major is its flexibility! Begin with the basic sciences and later take classes that will tailor the degree to your interests. The difference between the two degrees is that the B.A. requires foreign language classes and a minor. Plus, each offers different emphasis areas.

Pre-Rehabilitation Sciences Emphasis (B.A.): Suited for students who want to receive a bachelor’s degree before applying to a rehabilitation sciences program.

Double Major (B.A.): Prepare to teach biology or go to graduate school with a double major in biological sciences and secondary education, science teaching.

Entomology Emphasis (B.S.): Students choosing this emphasis take on course work in insect morphology and taxonomy plus additional course work in entomology.

Pre-pharmacy Emphasis (B.S.): Suited for students who want to receive a degree before applying to a college of pharmacy.

Quantitative Biology Emphasis (B.S.): Reinforce your degree with courses in mathematical modeling, statistical analysis and bioinformatics.

Toxicology Emphasis (B.S.): Focus on toxicology courses, and delve into quantitative analysis and environmental chemistry.

Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Program (B.S.): Earn credits toward a master’s in bioengineering while finishing your Bachelor of Science in biological sciences.

Curriculum:

Popular Minors:

  • Business Administration
  • English
  • Genetics
  • Modern Languages
  • Music
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Wildlife and Fisheries Biology

Similar Majors:

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM.

Outside the classroom activities include participation in one or more of our clubs, independent research projects, internships and study abroad opportunities.

Internships and Research Projects:

TRAVEL:
Each summer, Professor John Hains travels to the Clemson University Archbold Field Station on the island of Dominica and offers a course that introduces students to tropical ecosystems and habitats of the Nature Island of the Caribbean.
MISSION:
Each year, a select number of students travel to Costa Rica to work under the supervision of physicians and dentists. Students acquire hands-on medical/dental experience and learn about the Costa Rican health care system.
JOIN:
Clemson’s Chapter of Alpha Epsilon Delta serves students whose intent is to continue on to various health careers. This organization serves to prepare and expose interested students to medicine, dentistry and other health care disciplines.

Connect with Other Students:

CAREERS.

What are students doing at graduation?*

17%

Employed

62%

Grad School

12%

Seeking Employment

9%

Other

Where are students headed at graduation?*

Recent employers and job titles*

  • Peace Corps — Environmental Educator
  • SC ETV — Science Program Producer
  • Kelly Scientific — Laboratory Technician

Recent graduate schools and sought degree types*

  • Duke University — M.D.
  • Johns Hopkins University — Ph.D.
  • University of Maryland — DMD

Common Career Areas**

  • Health Care
    • Environmental Management and Conservation
      • Education
        • Administration
          • Biological Careers
            • Biotechnology
            • Forensic Science
            • Politics and Policy
            • Business and Industry
            • Economics
            • Mathematics
            • Science Writing and Communications
            • Art
          *Represents only Clemson University graduates who completed Michelin® Career Center surveys from 2009 to 2011.
          **Used w/permission from Univ. of Tennessee.
          FIND OUT MORE.

          Have more questions or want more information? Fill out the form below, which goes directly to the following department contact as well as our admissions office.

          Katie Black, Student Recruitment Coordinator
          888-472-5433 — hulse@clemson.edu