Biology B.A. B.S. / Minor
Study the science of life through hands-on labs, one-on-one faculty research, and a degree path built around your goals.
Biology is the science of life, encompassing the study of living organisms from molecules to ecosystems. At Manhattan University, every biology course includes a lab, so you learn by doing from your first semester. Whether you choose the B.S. or the B.A., you will build a foundation that opens doors to medicine, dentistry, veterinary care, biological research, and environmental careers.
This program is part of Biology
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study Biology at Manhattan University?
Biochemistry is a unique discipline at the intersection of chemistry and biology, and one of the fastest-growing research fields in science. At Manhattan University, biochemistry majors study the molecules that define living organisms through rigorous coursework and hands-on laboratory work, guided by faculty who teach every course themselves. With access to funded research opportunities, modern instrumentation, and personalized mentorship, students build the scientific foundation to pursue medicine, dentistry, graduate study, or research careers across the pharmaceutical, biotech, food, and cosmetics industries.
Academics
Curriculum & Courses
- Animal Behavior
- Animal Physiology
- Comparative Anatomy & Physiology
- Ecology & Evolution
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Molecular Cell Biology
- Neurobiology
- Research in Biology
Explore courses that build a broad foundation across molecular and organismal biology, with a co-requisite lab attached to your coursework at every level. As a biology major, you will take required and elective courses in biology alongside a liberal arts core, planned in consultation with your faculty advisor.
To view the whole curriculum, including degree requirements for the B.A. and B.S., please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
Hands-On From Day One
Conduct Real Research as an Undergraduate
Undergraduate research is one of the most important benefits of the biology program, and you do not need to wait for graduate school to start. Research in biology is offered as an elective course in which you:
- spend up to 12 hours per week in laboratory or field research
- work one-on-one with a faculty member
- co-author peer-reviewed papers with faculty
- present at regional and national conferences
- boost your resume before applying to postgraduate study
Thanks to expanded research funding, students can also apply to University-wide programs like Jasper Research Scholars and Summer Fellows, and department endowments extend field research beyond New York, including international biodiversity work. These experiences strengthen applications to medical school, veterinary school, graduate programs, and research positions across the sciences.
Why Study in New York City
New York City is one of the world's great living laboratories for the life sciences, and the biology program is built to take advantage of it. Classes head into the field for activities and research at the Bronx Zoo, the American Museum of Natural History, and the New York Botanical Garden, while the thousand-plus-acre Van Cortlandt Park, which preserves upland forests and wetlands, sits right beside campus. Pre-professional students with clinical interests shadow medical professionals in real healthcare settings across the city. Studying biology near the heart of New York City means your coursework, research, and resume are shaped by institutions that scientists travel from around the world to use.
Learn From Scientists Who Love to Teach
Your biology courses are taught by faculty members, never graduate students, and the department's professors are here because they are great teachers who are committed to your success. They lead the labs you work in, mentor the research you publish, and guide your path toward graduate school, professional school, or your first job in the sciences.
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. That foundation delivers: Manhattan University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), a measure of how strongly a degree here translates into graduates' career earnings.
Potential Careers
Studying biology opens the door to career paths that are important to our society as a whole. Many graduates go on to medical school, veterinary school, graduate school, or programs in physical therapy, nursing, genetic counseling, and physician assistant studies. The timing is strong: employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034, with about 1.9 million openings projected each year, and life, physical, and social science occupations are also projected to grow faster than average, with a median annual wage of $78,980 as of May 2024.
- Environmental Scientist
- Forensic Scientist
- Genetic Counselor
- Medical Writer
- Microbiologist
- Physical Therapist
- Physician
- Physician Assistant
- Registered Nurse
- Veterinarian
- Zoologist or Wildlife Biologist
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information for Manhattan University
Start Your Journey in Biology
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.