Bachelor of Science in Biology

Simply stated, biology is the study of life. A complete education in biology requires a survey of the natural sciences that integrates ecology and evolution with organismal, cellular, and molecular biology. For a comprehensive, transformative education, biology students are engaged in rigorous classroom instruction as well as dynamic, hands-on research. Biology majors enjoy being challenged in the classroom, lab, and field; they are thereby provided the tools for success in post-graduate studies and careers of interest. In biology, you will prepare for a broad selection of paths in the biological sciences including industry, research, health-related professions, and education.

The Biology Department seeks to engage and challenge students through personalized educational experiences that prepare graduates for success in any biology-related career. Department courses emphasize active faculty-student mentorship through small class sizes and hands-on scientific practice in the lab and field. Faculty members provide broad coverage of expertise that offers students a solid foundation in core biological principles/skills. The program's diverse research interests give students the vital benefit of research opportunities that address significant biological questions. The department offers a special Biology with Distinction degree for any biology majors interested in pursuing post-graduate education. The department also offers six biology minors to students wishing particular specialization:

• Cell and Molecular
• Environmental
• Neuroscience
• General Biology (for non-biology majors)
• Animal Behavior
• Zoo Biology

Distinctions

In this major, you are a part of a highly successful Biology Department with ties to institutions such as Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Program graduates have successfully attained advanced graduate degrees in academic or health-related careers. Others have found employment in industry, research, education, or government service. The Biology Department has produced three Fulbright scholars, and past graduates have been admitted to some of the most competitive advanced degree programs in the country.

Canisius University is a supportive community of people from all walks of life, engaged in conscientious academic, personal, and spiritual inquiry. Griffs learn how to think more deeply, create more boldly, dare more courageously, and live more compassionately, developing the skills and confidence to take the lead in their chosen field, career, and community.

Who We Are

We take the best in every student – and make it that much greater. We believe that greatness is in everyone, and as each individual flourishes, the world benefits. Our rigorous curriculum, vibrant and inclusive campus environment, and professional and community connections create a transformative educational experience that goes deeper than imparting necessary skills and knowledge. Griffs know how to think and how to lead, making them not only well-positioned to succeed in an ever-changing job market but also well-equipped to change the world.

Canisius at a Glance

• Founded: 1870 in Buffalo, NY
• Affiliation: Jesuit
• Students: 2,492
• Accredited schools and colleges: 3
• Majors, minors, and degree programs: 100+
• Student-faculty ratio: 11:1
• Percent of classes taught by faculty: 100%
• NCAA Division-I teams: 20
• Student-run clubs and organizations: 60+
• Alumni: 50,000+ worldwide

What We Stand For

• We are sensitive to the challenges that the world faces. As a university, we have the power to address injustice by expanding access to our transformative education, advancing equity, and producing new knowledge that advances humanity. And when our students graduate, they go on to meaningfully impact the areas that call out to them.
• Our community is respectful, creative, and tightly knit. Here, we cherish and challenge the individual, making space and providing support for everyone to discover their passions, articulate their purpose and become the greatest version of themselves.
• We are determined to make a difference. We understand that doing things the way that they have always been done only perpetuates the status quo and that there is no progress without action. Motivated by a vision of what could and should be, we move forward fearlessly.
• We see and respect every individual as a whole person. Every Griff, whether they’re a faculty member, staff person, or a student, plays a role in every other Griff’s development. When we lift each other up, we all reach even greater heights.