Biology 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.
Tracks
Major
B.S.
If you are interested in going on to medical school, vet school, or graduate programs in the health sciences or biology, the bachelor of science degree includes the necessary courses required of most programs.
B.A.
Complete a bachelor of arts in biology and you can pursue a variety of careers in the biological sciences. You can become a research assistant, environmental consultant, or a teacher at the elementary or secondary level.
Internships are required and guaranteed for biology majors
Minor
Requirements for a minor in biology include two core courses in biology and their accompanying laboratories and three 200-level or above elective courses in biology.
Research and Abroad Opportunities
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 Fellows research program 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. Learn more
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.
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 >
