Biology Degree – Wayne State College Nebraska

Explore the Biology degree program

Biology is the study of life and the foundation for understanding the natural world. Biologists get to explore living and breathing creatures, from the tiniest organisms and cellular processes to large mammals and ecosystems. In the Biology degree program at Wayne State, you’ll get to do these things and more.

In the Carhart Science Building at Wayne State, you’ll get plenty of time in our biology and research labs learning how to use state-of-the-art equipment from expert faculty. Lab and facilities for anatomy, physiology, biology, plant science, zoology, genetics, microbiology, molecular research, and cellular culture development will help you delve into the marvels of life and gain a deeper understanding for biodiversity’s role in supporting life on our planet.

What’s more, our Biology degree program lays the groundwork needed for students entering medical or professional school after graduation, where WSC graduates have attended top medical schools such as Nebraska’s own UNMC College of Medicine and even Johns Hopkins University.

A Biology degree can lead to a myriad of career paths. It is a field of endless discovery, with new breakthroughs and technologies constantly emerging. Whether you’re drawn to a career in health care, research, or conservation, your experiences in the Biology degree program at Wayne State can provide you with valuable analytical and lab skills that are highly sought after in today’s job market. A degree in Biology can help you make a meaningful difference in the world by addressing important global issues, such as disease outbreaks, climate change, and the preservation of endangered species. The living and breathing world is vast and open – and awaiting you to choose your path!

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Fast facts

Degree options:

B.A. or B.S. in Life Sciences / Biology
Minor in Biology

Delivery format: On campus (Wayne)

Program credit hours: 71-78

Life sciences core (12-13 credit hours)
Biology concentration (43 credit hours)
Biology or health science track (16-22 credit hours)

Note: Students must also take 30 credit hours of General Studies courses. A total of 120 credit hours are needed to graduate from WSC. Additional majors or minors can be added to help meet graduation requirements.

School: Science, Health, and Criminal Justice

Department: Life Sciences

Prepare for your future

Opportunities and outcomes

Biology topics covered

Principles of biology in the animal kingdom
Plant structure, function, and evolution
Gene action and molecular technology
Scientific writing, research, data collection, and analysis
History and mechanisms of evolution
Interrelationships of organisms and their environment

Student learning outcomes

Students will be able to interpret core concepts in biology
Students will be able to apply concepts in biology to internships and/or student research
Students will be able to accurately communicate core concepts in biology

Nebraska S-STEM Scholars Program

Incoming first-year students studying Biology are eligible for the Nebraska S-STEM Program. Students in the program are awarded up to $10,000 per year based on their unmet financial needs. If selected for the program, you’ll be guided by faculty mentors through independent research projects beginning your first year and supported by a team of advisors, supplemental instructors, and peer tutors. A research and travel stipend is also provided to help you attend regional conferences and network with fellow mathematicians, and present your research. Additionally, you’ll live in the residence halls for your first two years alongside other S-STEM scholars, where you’ll support each other while developing leadership and professional skills.

Nebraska S-STEM Scholars Program

Biology internships

Our outstanding Career Services Office is available to help you find biology internships and career opportunities. Students recently completed internships at the following locations:

CHI Good Samaritan Hospital
Faith Regional Health Services
Jacobsen Therapy Services
Lewis and Clark State Park (Iowa Department of Natural Resources)
Nebraska Game and Parks
Ponca State Park (Nebraska)
Providence Medical Center
Upper and Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources Districts
Wakefield Dental Office

Career services and internships

Graduates of the Biology degree program work in their chosen field using the skills they learned while at Wayne State College. Each year, eager employers welcome WSC graduates into their organizations.

Jobs of recent graduates:

(without advanced degree, or while pursuing advanced degree)

Biological Science Technician – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Yankton, S.D.)
Clinical Research Coordinator – Meridian Clinical Research (Norfolk, Neb.)
Environmental Soil Technician – Midwest Laboratories (Omaha, Neb.)
Food Analyst – IEH Laboratories & Consulting Group (Omaha, Neb.)
Lab Assistant – CHI Health (Omaha, Neb.)
Lab Technologist – Eurofins (Minneapolis, Minn.)
Natural Resource Groundwater Technician – Lower Elkhorn Natural Resource District (Norfolk, Neb.)
Soil Conservationist – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) (Albion, Neb.)
Taxidermist – Dan French Taxidermy (Laporte, Colo.)
Veterinary Assistant – Cedar County Veterinary (Hartington, Neb.)
Zookeeper – Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium (Omaha, Neb.)

job or grad school placement rate
within six months of graduation
Data based on most recent
employment outcomes survey

After graduating from Wayne State College, recent grads pursued advanced degrees at the following schools:

Chiropractic Medicine (D.C.) - Cleveland College of Chiropractic
Dentistry (DDS) – University of Nebraska Medical Center (Lincoln, Neb.)
Healthcare Innovation (M.S.) – University of St. Thomas (St. Paul, Minn.)
Medicine (M.D.) – University of Nebraska Medical Center (Omaha, Neb.)
Optometry (O.D.) – Midwestern University (Downers Grove, Ill.)
Physical Therapy (DPT) – University of Nebraska Medical Center (Omaha, Neb.)
Physician Assistant (MPAS) - College of St. Mary (Omaha, Neb.)
Public Health (MSPH) – Johns Hopkins (Baltimore, Md.)
Veterinary Medicine (DVM) – Colorado State University (Fort Collins, Colo.)

Cost of attendance

Most Affordable College in Nebraska

- College Affordability Guide, 2024

Wayne State is considered the most affordable four-year college or university in Nebraska. With same rates for in- and out-of-state students, our tuition guarantee, and our generous scholarship packages, it is clear to see how WSC earned the title. In fact, the average remaining annual cost of attendance for 2024-25 is $2,268 for undergraduate students after financial aid and scholarships.

Life sciences core courses (12-13 credit hours)

Credits: 4
Description: The first course for Biology majors. A grade of C- or better in this course is a prerequisite for all biology courses in the biology concentration. A study of the microscope, basic cell structure and function, DNA replication, mitosis, meiosis, genetics, evolution, population biology, and diversity. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required.
Prerequisite: One year of high school biology or BIO 102 Biology for General Studies
Credits: 4
Description: Emphasis on nomenclature, atomic structure, bonding, gaseous and liquid states, equilibrium, and stoichiometry. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required.
Prerequisite: High school chemistry or CHE 102 Chemistry for General Studies
Choose one of the following:
- PHY 201 General Physics I (3 credits) – An algebra-based general physics course intended primarily for health professions, life science and education students. Topics include vectors, kinematics and dynamics, equilibrium, rotational motion, energy, momentum, oscillations, fluids, and thermodynamics. Prerequisite: 2 years of algebra.
- PHY301 University Physics I (4 credits)– A calculus- based general physics course intended primarily for scientists, pre-engineers, computer and math majors and advanced health professional students. Topics include vectors, kinematics and dynamics, equilibrium, rotational motion, energy, momentum, oscillations, fluids, and thermodynamics. Prerequisite: High school physics and MAT 140 Calculus I or equivalent calculus class.
Plus:
PHY 321 Physics Laboratory I (1 credit) – Concurrent enrollment in PHY 201/301 recommended but not required. This laboratory is a required course for both PHY 201 General Physics I and PHY 301 University Physics I. Experiments, appropriate to the level of lecture, include topics in mechanics, momentum, work and energy, and fluids. 3 hours lab. Physics lab fee of $20 required.

Biology concentration courses (43 credits)

Credits: 4
Description: A study of the principles of biology as they apply to the uniformity, diversity, and organization of the animal kingdom. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts
Credits: 4
Description: A study of the principle of biology through an investigation into the molecular, anatomical, and morphological diversity of the non-animal Eukarya. Students will use laboratory methodology and scientific inquiry to understand plant structure, function, and evolution. Topics related to the human use of plants including phytopharmacology, ethnobotany, and plant biotechnology will also be examined. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts
Credits: 1
Description: Lecture and discussion of topics relevant to the science and practice of biology. Topics vary based on the faculty member leading the course. This course may be repeated up to a total of 4 hours, by advisement, when no duplication of topic exists, but a maximum of only 2 credit hours can count towards any Life Sciences major.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts
Credits: 4
Description: A study of the mechanisms of inheritance, the molecular basis of gene action and the use of molecular techniques and molecular technology in biomedical, agricultural, and industrial research. The lab component of this course focuses on hands-on use of molecular equipment and technologies used in graduate and industrial molecular-based research. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, CHE 106 General Chemistry I
Credits: 2
Description: This course is designed for biology majors as an introduction to scientific writing, library research, data collection, and data analysis. The student will be expected to use the skills learned in this course to establish a proposal for a research project for BIO 465 and 470.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, 8 hours of biology
Credits: 3
Description: The study of the history of evolutionary thought. The course will explore the evidence for evolution by examining the fossil record, comparative anatomy/physiology, and model field studies. Students will learn the model systems demonstrating the mechanisms that drive evolution: mutation, selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and inbreeding. Students are required to conduct research projects requiring quantitative analysis of evolutionary and ecological data. Evolution is a unifying theme in biology which integrates knowledge from all biological disciplines. 3 hours lecture-lab combined.
Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, BIO 200 Zoology, BIO 210 Experimental Plant Science, and BIO 320 Molecular Genetics
Credits: 4
Description: A continuation of CHE 106 with emphasis on kinetics, redox reactions, molecular geometry, hydrolysis, electrochemistry, and solubility products. Qualitative analysis included. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required.
Prerequisite: C- or better in CHE 106 or by consent of instructor
Choose one of the following:
- BIO 397 Biology Internship (1 credit) – The internship program is a credit-bearing program providing undergraduate students with the opportunity to integrate career-related work experience with classroom learning. Work experiences occur in positions relevant to a student’s major. Internships require a minimum of 45-50 work hours for each 1 hour of credit. Contact the Career Services Office, your academic advisor, or department chair for specific details. Graded S/NC. Prerequisite: BIO 370 Introduction to Research, approval of the academic advisor and/or department chair, and a minimum 2.0 GPA requirement and/or the eligibility requirements per the department.
- BIO 465 Continuing Research(1 credit) – This course is a continuation of BIO 370. Students taking this course will be actively involved in research under their chosen advisor. This course is to be taken after BIO 370 but prior to BIO 470 Research Project. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, BIO 370 Introduction to Research.
Choose one of the following:
- BIO 469 Senior Seminar in Biology (1 credit) – Students will develop an oral and written presentation of their biology internship experience. Students will incorporate current research literature into their presentations. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, BIO 370 Introduction to Research, and BIO 397 Internship.
- BIO 470 Research Project(1 credit)– This course is a continuation of BIO 370 and BIO 465. Students will take this course as a means of completing their individual research project under the direction of a chosen instructor. A presentation of this research in both oral and written form is required at the conclusion of the course. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, BIIO 370 Introduction to Research, and BIO 465 Continuing Research.

Ecological studies courses (7-8 credits):
- BIO 325 Ecology (4 credits) – An evolution-based study of the interrelationships of organisms and their environment. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: 8 hours of biology.
Plus one of the following two courses:
- BIO 345 Conservation Biology (3 credits) – A study of habitat assessment, ecosystem management and ecological restoration. Students will integrate knowledge gained from various disciplines to develop conservation management plans. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
- BIO 415 Wildlife Management (4 credits) – Theory and methods of managing wildlife populations through habitat manipulations, population management and policy. Includes lecture and activities including field work and computer modeling. Course topics will include advanced ecology topics, conservation theory and practice, population census methods, age structure, adaptive management, wildlife harvesting and damage control, and ecosystem management and conservation topics. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts; BIO 325 Ecology is recommended.
Organismal biology courses (6 credits):
Choose two of the following courses:
- BIO 346 Animal Behavior (3 credits) - An ecological and evolutionary perspective on mechanisms (genetics, neurobiology, endocrinology) and development (learning, cultural transmission) of foraging, mating, sociality, aggression, and cooperation behaviors in animals. (3 hours lecture-lab combined) $20 class fee required. Prerequisite: BIO 200 Zoology.
- BIO 406 Great Plains Flora (3 credits) – The identification and characterization of dominant vascular plant species in the Great Plains region. Plant morphological terminology, family identification characteristics, dichotomous keys, plant collection techniques, and an introduction to plant systematics will be used for the purpose of classifying plants. The ability to identify plants is critical for wildlife biology, forestry, range management, agronomy, horticulture, and other natural resource fields. 3 hours lecture-lab combined. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: BIO 210 Experimental Plant Science.
- BIO 430 Parasitology (3 credits) – Study of animal parasites and the effects they have on their hosts. Studies in this course center on parasites of humans, other vertebrates, and invertebrates. Taxonomy, morphology, development, physiology, identification, epidemiology, and pathogenesis are emphasized. An understanding of human anatomy and histology would be beneficial to students taking this course. Parasitology is highly recommended for students interested in health-related, biomedical, and biological careers. 3 hours lecture-lab combined. Prerequisite: BIO 110 Biology Concepts.
Biology track electives (5-6 credits):
Choose any upper-level BIO electives (excluding BIO 399) and/or CHE 326 Biochemistry that are not repeat courses to complete 55 credits (Concentration + Core). BIO 301 Biology Seminar may be taken up to two times for 2 hours maximum with no topic repeat. Students are encouraged to take additional BIO electives and should see their advisor for classes relevant to their desired area of employment or subsequent education. . View the course catalog for full list of courses and descriptions.
Human form and function courses (6-8 credits):
Choose two of the following courses:
- BIO 330 Histology (4 credits) – Study of the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs of organisms. Prepared slides of human and other vertebrate organs and tissues will be studied with light microscopy. Students will also learn techniques associated with slide preparation and slide organization. An understanding of human anatomy would be beneficial to students taking this course. Histology is highly recommended for students interested in health-related, biomedical, and biological careers. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: BIO 110 Biology Concepts.
- BIO 340 Human Physiology (4 credits) – A study of the fundamental physiological processes of the human body. Functions of the 11 organ systems will be studied. 3 hours lecture and one 3-hour lab. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisites: BIO 220 Human Anatomy and CHE 106 General Chemistry I.
- BIO 409 Comparative Anatomy and Embryology (4 credits) - A comparative study of vertebrate embryonic development and anatomy with emphasis on morphogenesis, function, and evolution of organ systems. (3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab) $20 class fee required. Prerequisites: BIO 110 Biology Concepts Anatomy and CHE 107 General Chemistry II.
- BIO 434 Advanced Cellular Biology(3 credits) – An advanced study of the structure and function of the eukaryotic cell. Topics will include the basics of modern cell biology including signal transduction, cell cycle regulation, and gene expression. 4 hours lecture-lab combined. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: BIO 320 Molecular Genetics and CHE 107 General Chemistry II.
- BIO 443 Advanced Human Anatomy (3 credits) – Under close supervision, students will dissect a human cadaver and prepare anatomical specimens. Students will learn proper dissection techniques and expand on their basic knowledge of human anatomy using a team-based approach. 3 hours lecture-lab combined. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Disease courses (6-7 credits):
Choose two of the following courses:
- BIO 336 Cancer Biology (3 credits) – This course will provide an overview of the biology and pathology of cancer. Lecture and discussion will include the various molecular and genetic changes that occur when a cell transforms from a normal to a malignant cancer cell. Changes in cancer prevalence over time, as well as current prevention measures, diagnostics, and treatments, will also be discussed. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, BIO 320 Molecular Genetics recommended.
- BIO 385 Microbiology (4 credits) – Topics of study detail the structure and physiology of microorganisms including mechanisms of pathogenesis. Beneficial aspects of microorganisms are also discussed with regard to both the human body and the environment. Lab techniques include microbial identification, enumeration procedures and student designed research. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 class fee required. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, CHE 106 General Chemistry I.
- BIO 430 Parasitology (3 credits) – Study of animal parasites and the effects they have on their hosts. Studies in this course center on parasites of humans, other vertebrates, and invertebrates. Taxonomy, morphology, development, physiology, identification, epidemiology, and pathogenesis are emphasized. An understanding of human anatomy and histology would be beneficial to students taking this course. Parasitology is highly recommended for students interested in health-related, biomedical, and biological careers. 3 hours lecture-lab combined. Prerequisite: BIO 110 Biology Concepts.
- BIO 486 Immunology (3 credits) – The topics for this course will include the biological, physical, and chemical properties of antigens and antibodies, host-antigen interaction, humoral and cellular response mechanisms, serologic reactions, mechanisms of antibody formation, hypersensitivity, and the role of the immune response in cancer and organ transplants. 3 hours lecture-lab combined. Graduate students will be required to do an additional project and write a paper. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts, BIO 320 Molecular Genetics recommended.
Health Science track electives (4-7 credits): Choose any upper level BIO electives (excluding BIO 399) and/or CHE 326 Biochemistry that are not repeat courses to complete 55 credits (Concentration + Core). BIO 301 Biology Seminar may be taken up to two times for 2 hours max with no topic repeat. Students are encouraged to take additional BIO electives and should see their advisor for classes relevant to their desired area of employment or subsequent education. View the course catalog for full list of courses and descriptions.

Popular pairings

Many students at Wayne State will add a second major or a minor to complement their program of study or to focus their studies on a specific topic. Students who recently majored in Biology at Wayne State also paired this major with one or more of the following programs:

View all majors and minors

Related programs

Students interested in the Biology program may also be interested in:

Applied Science (partnership with UNL)
Chemistry / Health Sciences (B.A. or B.S.)
Medical Lab Science (B.A. or B.S.)
Plant Biology (B.A. or B.S.)

A huge part of developing a career in conservation biology is connections and experience, and the professors here are very eager to provide students with potential opportunities. WSC has given me many diverse opportunities to explore. As part of the Wildlife Society, I’ve been able to take part in various conservation projects, such as monarch butterfly tagging, that have allowed me to get better ideas of the kind of work I want to be doing. As part of my classes, I’ve been able to go on field trips to see native prairies and learn about their restoration process, which has fostered an appreciation for Nebraska nature.

Anna DeGroot

Clarinda, Iowa

Major: Biology