Department of Biological Sciences

Fostering curiosity, discovery and opportunity

The Department of Biological Sciences combines rigorous academics with hands-on research and experiential learning to prepare students for success in science and beyond. Through classroom instruction, laboratory experiences and opportunities for independent research and service, students develop the foundational knowledge and critical thinking, analytical and technical skills to succeed in STEM fields.

Explore our programs

Select a program to jump to its description later on this page.

Bachelor’s degrees:

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
- Pre-health Professions option (BIOP)
- Secondary Teaching option (BIOT)
- General Biology option (BIOL)

Master’s degrees:

Master of Science in Biological Sciences
- Applied Physiology concentration (BIOA)
- Molecular, Cellular and Microbial Genetics concentration (BIOM)
- Environmental Biology concentration (BIOE)

Why choose to study with us?

Small classes taught by faculty experts: Learn from faculty with doctoral degrees who bring their teaching, scholarship and professional expertise into the classroom.
Research-integrated curriculum: Explore current methods and emerging topics through coursework informed by active faculty research.
Faculty-mentored research opportunities: Work alongside faculty on research projects and gain hands-on experience with scientific inquiry.
Biomedical research opportunities: Build practical laboratory and research skills that prepare you for work or further study.
Biodiversity on campus: Firsthand opportunities to study local biodiversity on location at CSU.

Career pathways for students

Our programs prepare students for careers such as:

Medical lab technologist
Environmental scientist
Microbiologist
Research associate
High school science teacher
Biological technician

Students may also pursue professional or graduate education to prepare for careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, optometry, physician assistant studies, anesthesiologist assistant studies, chiropractic medicine, public health and related healthcare fields.

Additional career pathways include research, laboratory and technical roles in biotechnology, ecology, environmental science, genetics, microbiology, biomedical research, conservation, urban agriculture and other biological science fields.

Compare career outcomes by major

Have you ever wondered how your major might help you after you graduate? See this academic major report for the state of Illinois! This tool contains useful data on how graduates from different majors are doing in the labor market, so you can explore questions like:

How much money are they earning?
What industries are they working in?
How much debt do they graduate with?
What occupations are they likely to hold?

Whether you’re declaring your initial major or considering a switch, this tool can help you make an informed choice.

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About our programs

Bachelor of Science Biological Sciences

Biology provides students with a strong foundation in the life sciences while preparing them for a wide range of scientific, healthcare and environmental careers. Students develop knowledge and skills in areas such as molecular, cellular and microbial biology, ecology and environmental biology, while gaining hands-on experience through laboratory and field-based learning.

Students may tailor their studies through concentration options that align with their academic and career goals.

Pre-health concentration

The Pre-Health Professions concentration prepares students for graduate and professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, optometry, physician assistant studies, public health and other health-related fields.

Secondary Teaching concentration

The Biology Secondary Education Program is a licensure program recognized by the state of Illinois for meeting national standards for science teacher preparation for grades 9-12 in biology, through the undergraduate (BIOT), graduate (MAT), and non-degree certification (TCBI) programs.

General biology concentration

The General Biology concentration offers a flexible curriculum for students interested in broad preparation across the biological sciences, including molecular biology, microbiology, ecology and environmental biology.

Master of Science Biological Sciences

The Master of Science in Biology provides advanced study in the biological sciences while preparing students for research, professional practice and further academic study. Students may tailor their graduate education by choosing a concentration in Applied Physiology, Molecular, Cellular and Microbial Genetics or Environmental Biology.

Build your future in biology

Whether you’re preparing for a career in healthcare, research, education or environmental science, CSU’s biological sciences programs give you the knowledge and hands-on experience to take the next step.

Undergraduate Application Graduate Application

Alumni success stories

Kyra Adenekan, Class of 2026

Biology, Secondary Education

CPS High School STEM Teacher

“My academic preparation at Chicago State University gave me a strong foundation in science pedagogy and content knowledge. The curriculum challenged me to master both scientific concepts and effective teaching strategies, while the faculty and advisors provided unwavering support.”

“Their guidance helped me navigate coursework, field experiences, and licensure preparation, ensuring I am fully ready to teach and inspire high school science students. I am forever grateful for my journey and happy to be a CSU alumnus.”

Chiamaka Uche, MD, Class of 2018

Biology

“Chicago State University molded the course of my medical career for many reasons. The biology department really took me under their wings and helped prepare me for medical school. I was able to get hands-on, one-on-one learning from my professors. I was also able to get research that made me stand out tremendously during my medical school interviews.”

John FK Brown, Class of 2015

Biology, Secondary Education

CPS High School Science Teacher

“Chicago State University prepared me to be a highly effective science teacher from my first day on the job to today. I can directly relate my experience as a student in the biological sciences program at CSU to my daily practice as a science educator because of the complete and thorough program curriculum…. I will always be very proud to be a CSU alumnus.”

Adaeze Olikagu, Class of 2023

Biology

Second Year Medical Student

“My time at CSU was truly foundational in shaping both my academic journey and personal growth. My favorite part of my time at the University was truly the faculty, whose mentorship, accessibility and encouragement pushed me to pursue my goals and strive for excellence.”

“During my time at CSU, I was fortunate to engage in numerous extracurricular opportunities in volunteering, teaching, and research. These experiences not only enriched my education but also helped me stand out in my medical school interviews and prepared me for the next stage of my journey. Today, I am a second-year medical student, and I know I would not be where I am without the strong foundation and the incredible community I built at CSU.”

Program contacts

Dr. Joyce Ache Gana

Department Chair

Email: jgana@csu.edu

Phone: 773-995-2183