Ave Maria University
At AMU, Biology students discover that the natural sciences are not simply technological disciplines but are truly liberal arts by which we seek to know truth for its own sake. If you enroll in our Biology major, you’ll have two paths to choose from. Firstly, you can pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, which focuses on the more scientific aspects of biology. Alternatively, you can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree, which places greater emphasis on general electives and the liberal arts. No matter which Biology degree is best for you, you’ll gain fundamental knowledge of biological systems at the molecular, organismal and ecological levels while discovering a deep sense of wonder at the natural universe.
Careers: Biologist, Ecologist, Veterinarian, Nurse, Lab Technician, Dentist Teacher
Our program brings together students and professors for comprehensive studies in several areas of modern biology. From cell and molecular biology to botany and physiology, our courses will train you to think critically and deepen your understanding of the world that is a dim reflection of its Creator.
Fast Fact: AMU is home to a Tri-Beta National Biological Honors Society chapter, which exceptional students have the opportunity to join.
The study of science is born from the conviction of the fundamental intelligibility of the world. Science at Ave Maria University testifies to the Catholic Church’s confidence in human reason’s ability to know the truth about God’s creation even apart from the illuminating power of grace. The natural sciences are not simply technological disciplines, but are truly liberal arts education in which we seek to know truth for its own sake. By enabling us to enter the simultaneous complexity and simplicity of physical reality, science instills within the students a deep sense of wonder at the natural universe. All students take at least two semesters of natural science as part of their Core Curriculum in the liberal arts education. These courses train their minds to think critically and allow them to understand more of the world that is a dim reflection of its Creator.
The Biology major provides a comprehensive study in multiple areas of modern biology. This major will serve as excellent preparation for graduate school, medical school, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or for employment in research laboratories, clinical laboratories or science education. If course prerequisites are required, they are identified within the course description. In addition to the general Core Curriculum requirements, the courses listed below are required.
Students with an interest in biology as a potential major are strongly encouraged to speak with a biology faculty advisor before beginning their freshman year.
Education: B.S., Chemistry and Physics, Lajos Kossuth University; M.Sc., Chemistry and Physics, Lajos Kossuth University; Ph.D., Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland Office: Henkels 3053 Email: agnes.berki@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7926
Education: B.A., Biology, Ave Maria University; M.A., Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University Office: Henkels 3052 Email: jacob.blanchard@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7130
Education: B.S., Biotechnology, Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico; M.S., Agrobiotechnology, University of Salamanca Office: Henkels 2062 Email: deliann.carillo@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7873
Education: B.S., Molecular & Cellular Biology, Texas A&M University; Ph.D., Biology, University of California, San Diego Office: Henkels 3051 Email: stephen.cronin@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 280-1617
Education: B.S., Marine Science & Biology, University of Miami; Ph.D., Cell & Molecular Biology, University of South Florida Office: Henkels 2053 Email: nicholas.curtis@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7132
Education: B.A., Biology, Knox College; M.S., Zoology, Western Illinois University; M.A., Theology, Ave Maria University Office: Henkels 2021 Email: brett.feger@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7366
Education: M.S., Pharmacy, Comenius University; Ph.D., Chemistry, University of North Dakota Office: Henkels 3028 Email: ladislav.sallai@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 280-2418
Education: B.S., Biology Millersville University; Ph.D., Plant Physiology, University of Kentucky Office: Henkels 2045 Email: william.serson@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 280-2433
Education: B.Sc., Environmental Science, University of Westminster; M.Sc., Fisheries Management, Development and Conservation, University College Cork; Ph.D., Fisheries Ecology and Management, Mississippi State University Office: Henkels 2021 Email: samuel.shephard@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7345
Education: B.S., Athletic Training, University of Akron; M.S., Exercise Science, University of Akron; Ph.D., Exercise Science, Ohio State University Office: Canizaro Library 313 Email: stephen.wirick@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7966
Education: B.S., Health, Physical Education and Recreation, University of North Alabama; M.S., Health and Human Performance, University of North Alabama; Ph.D., Human Performance, Middle Tennessee State University Office: Canizaro Library 314 Email: alexander.heatherly@avemaria.edu Phone:(239) 304-7983
The pre-medicine program offers academic preparation for medical school. Recommended majors for students interested in pre-medicine include Biology (B.S. or B.A.), Health Science (B.A.), or Biochemistry (B.S.)†, although other academic majors are usually acceptable as long as the appropriate pre-requisites* for a given medical school are completed. Students are encouraged to explore the ethical, moral, and social implications of modern medicine and technology from a Catholic perspective and should consider taking THEO 390 Catholic Bioethics.
Multiple upper-level Biology classes coinciding with prerequisites from most U.S. medical schools are strongly recommended. Classes include Genetics, Molecular Biology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, and Biochemistry. In preparation for the MCAT examination, minimal requirements should be completed by the end of the junior year. A variety of other supplementary programs, seminars, and lectures are offered.
At least 8 upper-level credits (300 and above) of Biology courses are required for most medical school admissions. The following course are recommended to fulfill this requirement, and all are recommended to aid in taking the MCAT:
†Students intending to major in Biochemistry should see the Biochemistry Degree section of the catalogue for a sample pre-med track.
*Admission requirements vary by institution. It is highly recommended that students check the requirements of the schools they are considering.
BIOL 211 Biology I Cellular and Molecular Biology (with laboratory) BIOL 212 Biology II Organismal and Population Biology (with laboratory) 4 Additional Biology Electives of at least 3 credits each coded 200-level or higher
Career Services prides itself on providing students, alumni and employers with the opportunity to connect. No matter where you are in your career search, whether it’s deciding on a path, preparing for your first job interview or working on graduate school or fellowship applications, we can help.
The spiritual life on campus is the beating heart of Ave. Whether it’s attending Mass, receiving the sacraments, participating in retreats or getting spiritual direction, you’ll find the spiritual support you need from the priests and staff of Campus Ministry.
With AMU’s core curriculum, you’ll not only achieve breadth of knowledge, but also depth of knowledge. You’ll encounter the truth about God and His creation more completely through the dynamic interplay of all of the liberal arts, including theology and natural science.
Sunny skies, warm temperatures, a beautiful campus. What more could you want? How about a community-like atmosphere, quality instructors who care about your success, a wealth of spiritual activities, expert career guidance… and that’s only the beginning. Imagine your future at AMU. It all starts by filling out our free application today.
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