With a bachelor’s degree in biology or microbiology, you will be ready to enter a wide range of professions. The possibilities after graduation are extensive with our department’s emphases and majors. Biology graduates can find work in hospitals, laboratories, high schools, companies specializing in medical or biotechnology, or as writers and commentators. Depending on your interests and emphasis, careers in higher academia, evolutionary biology, microbiology, or biotechnology are open to you.
B.A. / B.S. in Biology
Biology
The general biology degree is for students wanting flexibility in their area of study or students who are unsure about their future career path as a biologist. Students in the general biology major can study all branches and sub-disciplines within biology, including ecology, zoology, and evolutionary biology.
Course Catalogs:
Biology, Emphasis in Cell and Molecular Biology
Cell and molecular biology focuses on the mechanisms and functions of basic biological processes. This emphasis explores a wide range of disciplinary boundaries, including genetics, chemistry, and cell biology. Graduates will qualify for entry-level positions in the biotechnology sector. Students with a cell and molecular biology emphasis are encouraged to gain independent research experience through Biology 497/499 Special Studies.
Course Catalog:
Biology, Emphasis in Ecology
Ecology focuses on the ways organisms and their environment interact and sustain themselves. The ecology emphasis offers students a broad overview of the biological sciences that are sought after in research, teaching, or public relations and administration for private companies or governmental departments.
Course Catalog:
Biology, Emphasis in Evolutionary Biology
Evolutionary biology focuses on the evolutionary relationships between organisms and the processes that drive evolution. Students will explore a variety of topics and concepts, including mating systems, drift, gene flow, and natural selection. Through systematics, students will study a group of organisms to determine their evolutionary relationships (phylogeny), clarify their classification, and assess trends in ecology, biogeography, and evolutionary processes.
Course Catalog:
Biology, Emphasis in Marine Biology
The focal point of study in marine biology is life in oceanic habitats. Students with a passion for studying marine life and habitats, the ocean, and who want hands-on experience, are encouraged to apply. A biology degree with an emphasis in marine biology prepares students for field and laboratory technician positions, research positions, and resource development/management, both in the private and public sectors.
Course Catalog:
Biology, Emphasis in Zoology
Students interested in animal biology are encouraged to study biology with an emphasis on zoology. Students cover topics like embryology, physiology, behavior, and evolution, leading to careers as zookeepers, researchers, consultants, and zoologists. Students are encouraged to gain independent research experience in zoology through Biology 497/499 Special Studies.
Course Catalog:
B.S. in Biology For Single Subject Teaching Credential
Single Subject Teaching Credential
The B.S. in biology for single subject teaching credential prepares students for work as biology teachers. After completing the major, students will demonstrate subject matter competency and be qualified for any CA Single Subject Credential Program in place of a CSET exam. The CSET waiver requires that required courses be taken at SDSU within the last 7 years, with grades of C or higher.
Course Catalog:
B.A. / B.S. in Microbiology
Microbiology
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, their activity, and their impact on humans, animals, and the environment. Students graduating with a microbiology degree can find work in medical and clinical microbiology, virology, immunology, industrial microbiology, biotechnology, food and pharmaceutical microbiology, microbial genetics, molecular biology, and more.
Course Catalogs:
Clinical Laboratory Science
The emphasis in clinical laboratory science and public health microbiology is a State of California-approved program that prepares students for Public Health Microbiologist and Clinical Laboratory Scientist academic certification and licensing examinations. Student laboratory experience is highly recommended. Students interested in CLS should check with the emphasis advisor before beginning coursework to discuss required internships and other considerations.
Course Catalog:
Certificate in Biotechnology
Biotechnology Certificate
Through the application of molecular biology, engineering, genetics, and other technologies, the biotechnology certificate offers a program ideal for students interested in entering a wide range of fields in biology, including pharmaceuticals, genetic engineering, and industrial biotechnology. As the manufacture and mass production of biological components, materials, and supplements continue to expand, this multi-disciplinary field presents students with the chance to become invested in these rapidly growing industries.
Course Catalog: