Biology degree students at Hollins develop a broad understanding of life – both plant and animal. You’ll explore the organization and processes of each, from cells through organ systems to species and evolution to populations and ecosystems.
All along the way, our faculty, who offer expertise in fields ranging from genetics, ecology, and human physiology to microbiology, zoology, and ornithology, will help you grow broad scientific and technical skills. You’ll seamlessly integrate challenging classwork, experiential learning, and research/fieldwork.
Biology Degree Options
The Biology major fosters independent inquiry into the fundamental processes of life. Starting with a solid foundation, from cellular biology to entire ecosystems, students progress into specialized upper-level electives and hands-on research that align with their career plans and interests. This curriculum empowers students to customize their academic journey while mastering the technical skills required for modern scientific discovery.
Biology Major
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology
This degree provides the rigorous scientific foundation and specific prerequisites required for admission to medical, veterinary, and graduate health science programs. It is designed for students seeking advanced clinical or research-based careers that demand an intensive background in the biological sciences.
Biology Major
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology
The B.A. offers a flexible path toward diverse careers in the biological sciences, such as environmental consulting, research assistance, or K-12 education. It emphasizes core biological principles while allowing students to integrate their scientific studies with other professional or academic interests.
Pre-Vet Concentration
By integrating intensive coursework with hands-on research and internships, the Pre-Veterinary Science Concentration aims to include relevant coursework and experience needed to gain admission into Veterinary Schools.
Pre-Medicine Concentration
By aligning core requirements with medical and dental school prerequisites, the Pre-Medical Concentration provides a clear academic roadmap and a formal transcript credential, ensuring students are strategically prepared and competitively positioned for admission to medical school.
Biology Minor
The minor requires two core laboratory courses and three upper-level electives to provide a functional understanding of the life sciences. This biology minor provides a strong foundation in the life sciences, ideal for students pursuing interdisciplinary fields or enhancing their primary major with scientific knowledge.
Required Courses in Biology
Core Biology courses (e.g. required) include, BIOL 207/207L: Ecology and lab, BIOL 220/220L: Human Physiology and lab, BIOL 236/236L: Molecular and Cell Biology; students must also take BIOL 200: Sophomore Seminar and BIOL 471: Senior Seminar and are required to complete a Biology-related experiential component which includes things like internships, research, or biology-related abroad trips (e.g. Ecuador, School for Field Studies, or University of Limerick)
Research and Study Abroad
Research Opportunities
Hollins students have opportunities to work closely with faculty mentors to conduct meaningful research. Whether it’s a several week summer research project in Hollins’ Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF), independent research with faculty or a yearlong senior honors thesis, students at all stages and of all interests are able to gain valuable research experience right here at Hollins.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Hollins has formal partnerships with the University of Limerick in Ireland and the School for Field Studies (SFS), which allows students to go abroad during the regular semester and take courses that will count toward their biology major.
SFS is particularly well-suited for students interested in field biology as they have programs all over the world that focus on different topics relevant to that particular ecosystem and/or place-based conservation issue.
Meanwhile, the University of Limerick offers a wide variety of courses in the sciences; their equine studies program is often of particular interest to pre-vet students.
Ecuador! A Bio-Cultural Journey on the Equator
In this January Short Term course, students immerse themselves in one of the most biologically and culturally rich countries on the planet. Over the course of 17 days in the Andean highlands and the Amazon jungle, participants work at an ecological field station, engage in home stays with Indigenous communities, volunteer with environmental organizations, and take part in several ongoing research projects related to biodiversity and beyond.
Signature Internships
Biology-related Signature Internships and Roanoke Valley internships available through Career and Life Design.
- Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta GA
- Mill Mountain Zoo (accredited by the Zoological Association of America-ZAA), Roanoke, VA
- Maymont Foundation – Richmond, VA
- Virginia State Parks – throughout VA
- Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP) – Roanoke, VA
- Virginia Tech Animal Cancer Care and Research Center – Roanoke, VA
- Roanoke Valley Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) – Roanoke, VA
Scientific Research Honor Society
Sigma Xi
Sigma Xi is a scientific research honor society created to distinguish exceptional scientists who want to be at the forefront of impacting world change through research. As a university that promotes scientific research and advancements, it is no surprise that Hollins was awarded a chapter from one of the oldest and largest scientific organizations in the world. Learn more about Sigma Xi >
Meet our Biology Faculty
Learn more about our Biology professors. Reach out to ask about our biology majors, minor and concentrations as well as to learn more about our experiential learning opportunities.
Facilities & Natural Areas
Our Campus Classroom
Hollins 475-acre campus offers a diversity of ecosystems including stream, wetland, pond, field, forest, agricultural, and suburban ecosystems.
This in conjunction with the biodiverse and rich natural and outdoor recreation resources of our region here in the Blue Ridge mountains provides a variety of valuable experiences within our field laboratories and courses.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Housed within the Dana Science Building, the Hollins University Biology Department blends modern facilities with a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere. By intentionally grouping faculty offices, research labs, and study spaces, Dana creates a natural hub for the close-knit community that defines our program.
Students have access to specialized spaces tailored to their interests, including dedicated labs for student research, molecular biology, anatomy and physiology, and field biology. Tour the Dana Science Building virtually
What Can You Do With a Biology Major?
A biology major from Hollins equips students with a deep understanding of living systems and strong technical, analytical, and research skills—preparing them for a wide range of professional opportunities or advanced study.
Whether you want to work in the lab, the classroom, or the field, your training in biology offers flexibility and purpose.
Careers after Graduation
Many biology graduates pursue careers that contribute directly to scientific innovation, public health, environmental protection, or education. Others go on to professional programs in healthcare, veterinary science, or graduate research.
Laboratory Technician or Research Assistant
Supporting scientific investigations in universities, labs, or biotech companies.
Field Technician or Conservationist
Gathering data, conducting hands-on research in natural environments, and supporting initiatives at non-profit conservation organizations.
Environmental Consultant
Advising companies or governments on ecological impact and sustainability.
Science Teacher or Educator
Teaching in various settings (public school roles require licensure in education).
Professional and Graduate Pathways
With a biology major, students can obtain the necessary prerequisites for admission into professional programs or graduate schools. These advanced paths lead to specialized careers in:
Healthcare & Medicine
Doctor, Veterinarian, Physician Assistant, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, or Genetic Counselor.
Research & Academia
Professor, Research Scientist, or specialist in areas such as Neuroscience, Cancer Biology, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology.
Ecology/ Environment
Wildlife Biologist, Forester, or specialist in Zoology, Ornithology, and Biogeochemistry.
Public Health
Epidemiologist, Public Health Scientist, or Analyst helping to track diseases and develop health policies.
Where a Biology degree can take you
A degree in biology from Hollins opens doors to a wide variety of professional environments. Our graduates are qualified for roles at:
Government Agencies
National Institutes of Health (NIH), CDC, EPA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forestry Service, USDA, and state or local park agencies.
Non-Profits
The Nature Conservancy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Gates Foundation, as well as zoos, botanical gardens, and aquariums.
Private Industry
Biotech, pharmaceutical, and consumer companies such as L’Oreal, Bayer, Quest Diagnostics, and Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Academic Institutions
Teaching and researching at colleges and universities.
Explore a Biology Major at One of the Top All Female Colleges in Virginia
Ready to turn your passion for science into a meaningful career? Discover how a biology major at Hollins can empower your future in research, healthcare, or education.