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 offers a strong foundation in the life sciences with two distinct paths—biology education and integrative biology—designed to align with your interests and career goals. The biology education track prepares students to teach and inspire future generations of learners, while the integrative biology track is ideal for those pursuing careers in healthcare. Graduates are well prepared for advanced study in fields such as medicine, physician assistant, optometry, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, and more. Whether your interests lie in the classroom or in the sciences that support healthcare and research, this program provides the preparation needed to move forward with confidence.
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 curricula, students can double major in biology and exercise science. Expand your opportunities, prepare for medical school or accelerated nursing programs, and explore multiple interests. Graduates are well-prepared for the next step in becoming physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, athletic trainers, chiropractors, and more. 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.
Personalized academic advising
One-on-one advising is a key benefit of DSU’s small class sizes. Students receive individualized guidance as they prepare for medical school or other health professions, with faculty who understand their goals and help keep them on the right path. From the first day on campus, professors provide clear, practical advising to support students through the complexities of a healthcare-focused academic journey.
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, nursing and medical schools, as well as biotechnologists at national monuments.
