Biology, BS
Program Quick Facts
Credits
120
Start Terms
Fall
|Spring
Available
On Campus
Tuition
$8,956.50
estimated cost per semester
A Bachelor of Science in Biology at Dakota State University opens the door to a dynamic and versatile understanding of the living world, offering two distinct paths in biology education and integrative biology to match your interests and career goals. Together, these programs empower you to pursue your passions, whether investigating life at the molecular level or cultivating curiosity in tomorrow’s learners.
Choose your area of study
Those drawn to teaching can choose the biology education specialization, where biology and pedagogy merge to prepare future educators to inspire the next generation of scientists. Through deep study of biological principles, advanced laboratory work, immersive classroom experiences, and embedded educational technology training, this path equips you to confidently lead students in exploring genetics, plant and animal life, laboratory safety, and scientific inquiry.
Students pursuing the integrative biology specialization explore a broad range of scientific disciplines—microbiology, ecology, genetics, chemistry, bioinformatics, and more—gaining the knowledge and hands-on experience needed for careers in research labs, wildlife studies, biotechnology, or medical fields.
Curriculum and experience highlights
Pursue your passions with a double major
With intentionally coordinated curriculums, students can double major in biology and exercise science. Expand your opportunities, prepare for professional programs, and explore multiple interests. At DSU you can fully pursue your passions and career goals.
Hands-on lab work
Students use a variety of technology from autoclaves to laminar flow hoods, centrifuges, a microplate reader, gel electrophoresis equipment, and a qPCR machine that measures and amplifies DNA samples to study gene expression, genetic variation, genotyping, biomarker discovery, and detecting bacteria and viruses.
Biology news at DSU
DSU students attend annual SD Biotech meeting
Several Dakota State University students joined Dr. Andrew Sathoff in attending the SD Biotech Summit annual meeting recently in Sioux Falls.
Dececchi to lead biology outreach events
Dakota State University Professor Alex Dececchi led two science outreach sessions at Madison Public Library and Severance Brewing.
DSU student studied microplastics in Utah
DSU student Basbo Ayelazono spent the summer researching microplastics at the University of Utah in the mechanical engineering research lab.
Why choose DSU for biology?
Opportunities outside of the classroom
At DSU, you can participate and become a member of organizations like TriBeta, the National Biological Honor Society. This chapter is one of the few active TriBeta groups in South Dakota, offering a unique chance to connect with others who share your passion for biology.
Student research opportunities
Along with the equipment, students receive personalized attention from faculty, with opportunities for one-on-one mentored research. DSU undergraduate biology students frequently conduct graduate-level research, presenting their findings at professional conferences and publishing their work in journals.
Faculty
Exploring careers with a biology degree
Earning a bachelor’s degree in biology opens up a wide range of career paths. Whether your interests lie in medicine, research, or education, you'll likely find a direction that truly inspires you. Additionally, pursuing advanced education can pave the way for a rewarding career in the medical field. Graduates from DSU have successfully landed positions as park naturalists with the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks, as well as biotechnologists at national monuments.
