Advances in medicine, strategies for conservation of biodiversity, and new discoveries in biotechnology are some of the exciting events happening in the ever-changing field of biology. Whether you want to explore the mechanisms of drug action, manage fish and wildlife habitats, assess water quality in aquatic ecosystems, or enlighten the public on endangered plant species, the Department of Biology at Ball State is the place to start.

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Bachelor's

Biology is the study of life itself. It explains how life forms and living things function and how they relate to each other as well as their environments. Ball State’s major in biology will deepen your understanding of this ever-growing field of science. We offer eight tracks in our program.

Gen-Bio students.

General Biology Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Customize your course of study in biology to match your interests whether you choose to start a career right after graduation, continue studying in the field at the graduate level, or become a medical doctor, dentist, veterinarian, or other health professional. Learn more.

Aquatics students.

Aquatic Biology and Fisheries Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Promote the protection and restoration of water quality, the management of freshwater environments, and the recreational and sport-fishing use of lakes and streams. Learn more.

Field Botany students.

Field Botany Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Prepare to address global issues such as environmental degradation, extinction of plant species, the need to produce more food for a growing human population, and many other challenges faced by a constantly changing planet. Learn more.

Forensic Biology Concentration

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science

Forensic science bridges the gap between law enforcement and scientific disciplines, piecing together the clues using advanced scientific techniques. The program leverages strengths across five departments (biology, chemistry, computer science, criminal justice and criminology, and psychological science) in four concentrations, applying scientific principles to crime investigation, civil litigation cases, corporate security, and government regulation enforcement. Learn more.

Cell Molec students.

Cellular and Molecular Biology Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Explore molecular interactions that both drive and regulate cellular processes by studying model systems in animal, plant, fungal, and bacterial cells. Learn more.

Genetics student looking in microscope.

Genetics Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Develop a broad understanding of genes and heredity in living organisms through the study of genomes, molecular biology, human genetics and more as well how genetics is applied in fields like agriculture, genetic counseling, biotechnology and others. Learn more.

Microbiology class.

Microbiology Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Study bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. Learn about microorganisms in a medical context through topics such as pathology, immunology, and medical mycology. Learn more.

Faculty and student at field burn

Wildlife Biology and Conservation Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Prepare to properly care for and conserve wildlife as industry expands and populations grow into diminishing natural habitats. Earn official certification from The Wildlife Society. Learn more.

Zoology class.

Zoology Concentration

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology

Study a broad and exciting field that covers ornithology, mammalogy, ichthyology, entomology, animal parasitology, and more. Learn more.

Our pre-health professions programs provide you with the necessary foundation for a successful career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary practice, optometry, medical technology and other health professions.

Many universities only offer majors in biology or chemistry for students pursuing a career in one of these health professions, but our curriculum offers a much broader education through diverse class offerings and unique partnerships with schools in the region, ensuring you’ll be application-ready when you complete our program.

Degree Programs

Pre-Medicine Major

Prepare for the rigorous and competitive process of applying to a medical school by gaining a strong foundation in the sciences, plus hands-on research experiences and clinical opportunities. Learn more.

Pre-Dentistry Major

Complete the foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and other subjects needed to be admitted to a dental school certified by the American Dental Education Association. Learn more.

Medical Technology Major

Play a vital role in diagnosing and preventing diseases by learning how to conduct laboratory work in bacteriology, chemistry, serology, and blood bank technology. Learn more.

Non-Degree Programs

Our non-degree programs can be completed on their own, but our students often pair the program of their choice with a major in order to earn a bachelor’s degree from Ball State. While biology is a popular major to pair with one of these programs, students can major in any subject. Plus, an advisor specializing in pre-health professions guides our students every step of the way.

Pre-Pharmacy Major

Complete your courses in two years, preparing you to meet the admission requirements of multiple pharmacy schools in Indiana. Learn more.

Pre-Optometry

Prepare for the admission requirements of a four-year optometry school accredited by the American Optometric Association. Learn more.

Pre-Physician Assistant

Meet the requirements for a master’s-level physician assistant program. You’ll work with a departmental advisor to devise a plan of study that meets your career goals. Learn more.

Pre-Veterinary

Prepare to meet the admission requirements for Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. You may also work with a departmental advisor to develop a plan of study that will prepare you for another school. Learn more.

Pre-Chiropractic

Complete this program in combination with a bachelor’s degree in biology or pre-medicine to prepare yourself for chiropractic school. Learn more.

Students at the Quad

Life Science Education Major

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

Passionate about passing your love of science to younger generations? Our life science licensure program prepares you to teach middle school grades five through eight, as a science generalist with a life science concentration, or high school, grades nine through 12, as a science specialist. Learn more.

Chemistry students work with their professor

B/MD Pathway

Interested in pursuing medical school? From your first day, our B/MD Pathway will start you—and keep you—on track to be admitted to the Indiana University School of Medicine's Muncie campus. Learn more.

Students at river

Minor in Biology

No matter where your career takes you, a minor in biology will give you an edge in your field and make you more marketable. Our interdisciplinary program includes many hands-on learning experiences, small class sizes, and experienced faculty teaching the courses. Learn more.

Students in Gym

Minor in Physiology

Our minor in physiology is an excellent choice if your career will take you into the fields of medicine, sports, and more. Completing a minor in physiology will make you more marketable after graduation and distinguish you from other job applicants. Learn more.

Masters Biology students.

Master’s Degree in Biology

Master of Arts or Master of Science

A master's degree in biology will strengthen your background in biological sciences and related disciplines through coursework and extensive research that culminates in a research thesis. Our master’s program will prepare you for further study at the doctoral level, or you may transition directly into a professional career in research, industry, and environmental biology in the private and public sectors. Learn more.

Student with meter

PhD in Environmental Science

Prepare yourself for a successful career in academia, industry, or government—any profession that needs highly qualified professionals trained in science with experience in applying fundamental skills to real environmental problems. Learn more.

Biotechnology students.

Certificate in Biotechnology

Undergraduate or Graduate

Biotechnology is one of the most in-demand career fields in the United States. Our certificate in biotechnology will position you to join this rapidly growing economic sector as a research associate or quality control associate in pharmaceutical or agricultural companies, academic institutions, and government agencies. Learn more.