Biology, the study of life, is a complex science and incorporates many sub-disciplines including anatomy, plant sciences, genetics, toxicology, ecology and evolution. The Biology major offers broad training in the biological sciences and balances organisimal with cellular/molecular biology. This background serves as a solid preparation for:
  • Future graduate level education in the biological sciences;
  • Future professional education in the health-related sciences;
  • Employment at the bachelor’s level; and
  • Additional training in other disciplines that require a thorough understanding of biology, such as sports medicine and various areas of business, communications, engineering, law, and social policy development.
At Canisius, this learning experience is one of quality and value. Our full-time professors are trained specialists who hold PhDs in their areas of expertise and actively engage in research pertinent to their interests.

Hands-on experience is central to the Canisius biology program. Students have access to state-of-the art instrumentation for both course work and research. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in research with faculty or to work with individuals at other local research institutions. Both teaching assistantships and internships as research trainees are available to qualified applicants. These opportunities help develop additional skills not normally offered in undergraduate courses, and help the student apply knowledge acquired in coursework to real-world situations.

The biology curriculum combines lectures and a hands-on learning experience in both its core and elective courses. The elective courses offered cover a variety of biological fields, which allow students to sample many areas of biology or to investigate more thoroughly specific areas of special interest.

All biology majors are assigned advisers within the department who can assist students in choosing electives, discussing career expectations and developing their total academic programs.

Our acceptance rates into professional and graduate schools have been consistently high. Over the past 10 years it has averaged 95 percent. Our graduates can also enter into a variety of fields, and opportunities exist for early-assurance programs at the University at Buffalo, Syracuse University and the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. To learn more about these opportunities, click here.