Bachelor of Science in Biology

The Department of Biology at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania offers the Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with optional concentrations in Cell and Molecular Biology, Environmental Biology, Fisheries, and Medical Laboratory Sciences. Students may also choose to complete the general Biology degree without a concentration. A feature of all Biology curricula (with the exception of Medical Laboratory Sciences) is the requirement to complete an undergraduate research project.

All concentrations meet the minimum requirements for medical schools. Many Biology graduates become technicians in hospitals and research laboratories. Others go into sales positions with medical and pharmaceutical supply companies, while still others find employment in the environmental and ecological fields. Those students preparing for a career in medicine may meet the minimum requirements for medical, dental, chiropractic, veterinary, and physical therapy schools with proper course selection.

Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration

The Cell and Molecular Biology concentration emphasizes molecular interactions and cell development and functions. This concentration is the primary degree for medical school preparation and has a strong chemistry component. Students learn to manipulate and use a variety of cell and molecular techniques important in present-day research. Students selecting this concentration are qualified to enter the job market in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medicine, and the molecular biology of the environment.

Environmental Biology Concentration

The Environmental Concentration is for students interested in focuses on environmental issues. The concentration trains students to examine environmental problems from an interdisciplinary perspective. Students receive a solid foundation in the environmental field as well as related courses in the Arts and Sciences. Graduates can expect employment opportunities with state and federal agencies or in the private sector.

Fisheries Concentration

The Fisheries concentration focuses on extensive coursework in the three major areas of Fisheries Science: Aquaculture, Fisheries Biology, and Fisheries Management. Unique features of the program include a summer internship, field courses, and a required research project. Fisheries interns and graduates are employed across the United States, establishing Mansfield University as a major center for Fisheries Education.

Cooperative education and research agreements with the U.S. Geological Survey, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are integral components of the Fisheries Program. With the addition of a Biostatistics course, graduates of the program meet the requirements for certification as Associate Fisheries Scientists by the American Fisheries Society.

Medical Laboratory Sciences Concentration

The Medical Laboratory Sciences concentration prepares students for a professional career in Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Biotechnology. The concentration includes three years of academic study on campus and one year (50 weeks) of clinical study at an approved hospital school of Medical Technology. Students must apply to a hospital school and be accepted for the year of clinical study. Mansfield University has an affiliation with the Robert Packer Hospital School of Medical Laboratory Sciences in Sayre, Pennsylvania. Program graduates meet the requirements for certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.