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Bachelor of Science in
Biology
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Wall Street Journal ranks Cornerstone University as one of America's best colleges 2025.

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Transfer up to 75% of your program credits

Influence the Future of Science and Health with a B.S. in Biology

Make a lasting impact in science and healthcare with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Cornerstone University. Our deep and focused study of the biological sciences equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for influential careers in healthcare, research, industry, or government service. With specialized concentrations in pre-medical/dental/pharmacy, pre-optometry, pre-physician’s assistant, pre-veterinary and biological research, you’ll receive hands-on lab experience, training from expert faculty, and a strong foundation grounded in a Christ-centered worldview. Whether you’re pursuing graduate school or stepping directly into the sciences and health field, you’ll be prepared to lead and serve with purpose.

Develop Market-Ready Skills with a B.S. in Biology Degree

Cultivate highly sought-after professional skills to prepare you for industry or graduate study through Cornerstone’s Biblically grounded science and health curriculum. Students who want to pursue specialized professional studies in the future may choose from these concentrations: pre-medical/dental/pharmacy, pre-optometry, pre-physician’s assistant, pre-veterinary and biological research.

Understanding of Biological Systems – Deep knowledge of biological processes such as cell and molecular biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution.

Knowledge Across Science Disciplines – Exposure to a broad range of fields including microbiology, zoology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and physics.

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Scientific Method and Experimental Design – Proficiency in hypothesis development, experimental design, data collection, analysis, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Laboratory and Technical Skills – Hands-on experience with lab techniques, equipment, and safety procedures in various biological subfields.

Data Analysis and Interpretation – Apply statistical tools and software to analyze experimental results and identify trends.

Research and Scientific Inquiry – Experience in conducting original or guided research using best practices in methodology and ethics.

Scientific and Interpersonal Communication – Strong skills in writing lab reports, research papers, and presenting scientific information clearly to diverse audiences, alongside interpersonal skills to build client and industry relationships.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving – Approach biological and scientific questions with logic, creativity, and analytical reasoning.

Teamwork and Collaboration – Experience working in research teams and lab groups to achieve shared scientific goals.

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Christian Worldview of Ethics – Apply ethical decision-making to issues in biology, healthcare and science industries grounded in a Christian worldview.

Courses

Cornerstone is ready to help you excel in your chosen field. The courses below reflect just a few of the general education and industry-focused courses you will experience to achieve your degree.

Featured Courses

CHM-230/231: ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I w/Lab

Study the structure, bonding, reactions, and mechanisms of carbon compounds while developing laboratory skills for the synthesis and analysis of organic molecules. Explore nomenclature and spectroscopic characterization.

BIO-241: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I

Learn the structure and function of the human body, disease processes, healthful living, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems, with laboratory experiences and a connection to the Body of Christ.

BIO-351: GENETICS

Understand Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, and gene expression, with lab work on inherited traits and techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and cloning.

BIO-352: MICROBIOLOGY

Explore the structure and function of microorganisms, focusing on bacteria, with lab work in isolation, identification, and culturing techniques.

SCI-380: INTERNSHIP

All students complete an internship to gain practical experience, applying classroom and lab knowledge to real-world situations.

SCI-495: SENIOR RESEARCH PROJECT

Students complete an independent research project with a science faculty mentor, gaining skills in research, writing, data collection, and analysis.

View all of the courses for your academic program.

Academic Catalog

General Education

A Christian Worldview of Liberal Arts and the G.O.O.D. Life

The humanities are integral to Cornerstone’s liberal arts approach, exploring culture, literature, history, and philosophy through a Christian worldview. Developed by our renowned Christian worldview scholars, students consider how to apply G.O.O.D. Life Biblical principles to inspire their spiritual growth and to profoundly influence society, industry and ministry for Jesus Christ. Our G.O.O.D. Life foundations guide students to answer life’s biggest questions from a rich Biblical perspective to shape Christ-centered moral leaders.

  • God: Who is God? What is His beauty, goodness and greatness?
  • Others: What does it mean to live in a community with responsibility and grace?
  • Ourselves: Who am I? What is the beauty and frailty of being human?
  • Dual Citizenship: What is my role as a citizen of heaven and earth?
  • Life: How do we live, know, and love the good life, valuing truth, beauty, and goodness?

B.S. in Biology Concentrations

Expand your career opportunities and gain specialized skills with concentrations in pre-medical/dental/pharmacy, pre-optometry, pre-physician’s assistant, pre-veterinary and biological research. Read below to learn more about these concentrations. Students must choose one.

Biological Research

Biological Research Concentration

Designed for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or research-based careers, this concentration provides rigorous training in experimental design, data analysis, and laboratory techniques from a Christian worldview. Students engage in guided faculty research, develop critical scientific thinking skills, and gain hands-on experience that prepares them for advanced study or work in academic, clinical, or industry research settings. Courses include:

  • PHY 212: Physics II – Learn the fundamentals of electricity, magnetism, light, and modern physics.
  • BIO 225: Botany – Learn basic plant science, focusing on plant structure, reproduction, and ecological relationships.
  • CHM 232/233: Organic Chemistry – Study carbon-based compounds including nomenclature, structures, bonding, reactions, mechanisms, and spectroscopic characterization, with special emphasis on polyfunctional compounds and molecules with biological significance.
  • BIO-242: Anatomy & Physiology II – Explore the structure and function of major body systems with emphasis on disease, dysfunction, and practical health applications. Lab work includes microscopic and animal investigations. Highlights the body’s homeostasis and its analogy to the Body of Christ.
  • BIO-451: Molecular Cell Biology – Know cell structure, function, differentiation, and reproduction, emphasizing current research in oncology, immunology, neurology, and embryology. Lab work includes sterile tissue culture, cell growth techniques, and computer-based analysis.
  • CHM-472: Biochemistry – Learn key molecules like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, focusing on enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, and their link to diseases.

Students may choose from electives that fit your goals, including: Environmental Science, Ecology, Global Health & Epidemiology, Perspectives in Chemistry, or Neuroscience.

Pre-Medical/Dental/Pharmacy

Pre-Medical/Dental/Pharmacy Concentration

Pursue a professional degree with a Pre-Medical/Dental/Pharmacy concentration. Gain the rigorous, advanced academic foundation, research experience, and Christ-centered perspective needed for professional school admission and success in medical, dental, or pharmacy fields. Acquire essential foundations in biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, and biochemistry. Courses include:

    • PHY 212: Physics II – Learn the fundamentals of electricity, magnetism, light, and modern physics.
    • CHM 232: Organic Chemistry I – Continue exploring organic chemistry, focusing on polyfunctional compounds and biologically significant molecules. Investigate natural product synthesis and polymer chemistry.
    • CHM-233: Organic Chemistry II Lab – Develop laboratory principles, methods and techniques for synthesis and analysis of organic molecules as a continuation of Organic Chemistry Lab I.
    • BIO-242: Anatomy & Physiology II – Explore the structure and function of major body systems with emphasis on disease, dysfunction, and practical health applications. Lab work includes microscopic and animal investigations. Highlights the body’s homeostasis and its analogy to the Body of Christ.
    • BIO-347: Intro to Nutrition – Examine how food impacts health, development and physical performance. Study energy pathways, the six essential nutrients, body composition, and weight control to support optimal health and performance.
    • BIO-451: Molecular Cell Biology – Explore cell structure, function, differentiation, and reproduction, emphasizing current research in oncology, immunology, neurology, and embryology. Lab work includes sterile tissue culture, cell growth techniques, and computer-based analysis.
    • CHM-472: Biochemistry – Learn key molecules like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, focusing on enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, and their link to diseases.

You may choose electives that fit your goals, including: Global Health & Epidemiology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Pathophysiology or Perspectives in Chemistry.

Pre-Optometry

Pre-Optometry Concentration

Gain a strong foundation in the sciences for graduate study and future clinical practice in vision care, taught from a Christ-centered perspective. Optometry students complete coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, microbiology, biochemistry, and math—building the scientific and analytical foundation required for optometry school and the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). Courses include:

    • PSY 111: General Psychology – Learn foundational concepts, theories, and methods in psychology, including development, personality, perception, learning, biopsychology, disorders, and treatment.
    • MAT 131: Calculus – Understand rates of change, tangent lines, graphs, maximum values, and areas for polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions.
    • PHY 212: Physics II – Learn the fundamentals of electricity, magnetism, light, and modern physics.
    • BIO-242: Anatomy & Physiology II – Explore the structure and function of major body systems with emphasis on disease, dysfunction, and practical health applications. Lab work includes microscopic and animal investigations. Highlights the body’s homeostasis and its analogy to the Body of Christ.
    • BIO-451: Molecular Cell Biology – Explore cell structure, function, differentiation, and reproduction, emphasizing current research in oncology, immunology, neurology, and embryology. Lab work includes sterile tissue culture, cell growth techniques, and computer-based analysis.
    • CHM-472: Biochemistry – Learn key molecules like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, focusing on enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, and their link to diseases.

You may choose electives that fit your goals, including: Global Health & Epidemiology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, or Pathophysiology.

Pre-Physician’s Assistant

Pre-Physician’s Assistant

Pursue a professional career as a Physician’s Assistant (PA) with a strong foundation in science and healthcare knowledge. PA graduate school prerequisites vary, therefore electives are offered to help you meet prerequisites and to cultivate the skills necessary to apply for your selected school. 500 to 1000 verified hours of healthcare experience. With academic preparation from experienced faculty and a Christian worldview, students are equipped to pursue their careers. Courses include:

    • PSY 111: General Psychology – Learn foundational concepts, theories, and methods in psychology, including development, personality, perception, learning, biopsychology, disorders, and treatment.
    • CHM 212: Principles of Organic and Biochemistry – Examine the structure, properties, reactions, and interactions of the compounds of carbon and biologically significant molecules.
    • PSY 235: Lifespan Development Psychology – Explore major human developmental theories from conception through the end of life, examining developmental issues through biological, psychological, social, and spiritual frameworks.
    • BIO-242: Anatomy & Physiology II – Explore the structure and function of major body systems with emphasis on disease, dysfunction, and practical health applications. Lab work includes microscopic and animal investigations. Highlights the body’s homeostasis and its analogy to the Body of Christ.
    • SCI 242: Medical Terminology – Build a working knowledge of medical vocabulary with emphasis on definitions, spelling, and pronunciation related to the human body.
    • SCI 345: Global Health and Epidemiology – Analyze the determinants of health and apply core epidemiological methods to improve community and population outcomes. Trace the field’s history, ethics, and philosophy while assessing the impact of policies in urban and global health contexts.
    • BIO-347: Intro to Nutrition – Examine how food impacts health, development and physical performance. Study energy pathways, the six essential nutrients, body composition, and weight control to support optimal health and performance.

Students must choose either: Principles of Organic and Biochemistry, or Biochemistry.

Students may choose from electives that fit your goals, including: Pharmacology, Neuroscience or Pathophysiology, Molecular Cell Biology, General Chemistry II, Organic Chemistry II or Organic Chemistry II Lab.

Pre-Veterinary

Pre-Veterinary Concentration

Designed for students who want to pursue a professional degree in veterinary medicine, this specialization provides a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and animal science. Guided by experienced faculty, students develop the skills and knowledge needed to advance their veterinary studies while incorporating Christian principles into their education and goals. Courses include:

    • PHY 212: Physics II – Learn the fundamentals of electricity, magnetism, light, and modern physics.
    • CHM 232/233: Organic Chemistry – Study carbon-based compounds including nomenclature, structures, bonding, reactions, mechanisms, and spectroscopic characterization, with special emphasis on polyfunctional compounds and molecules with biological significance.
    • CHM-472: Biochemistry – Learn key molecules like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, focusing on enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, and their link to diseases.

Students must choose either: Molecular Cell Biology or Ornithology.

Students may choose from electives that fit your goals, including: Environmental Science, Ecology, Wildlife Ecology, Molecular Cell Biology, Global Health & Epidemiology, Anatomy & Physiology, Ornithology or Perspectives in Chemistry.

Prepare for Master’s, Ph.D., or Medical Programs

Cornerstone University’s B.S. in Biology program prepares you for a career in biological sciences or to pursue graduate studies through our rigorous science curriculum, hands-on lab work, field research, and internship experiences, led by our industry-respected faculty.

Students may seek a future Master’s Degree (MS) in a particular area of biology, such as genetics, microbiology, or ecology, leading to rewarding careers in research, industry, or as a stepping stone toward a Doctoral Degree (Ph.D) or medical degree (MD or DO).

While admission to medical or graduate programs is highly competitive, completing Cornerstone University’s B.S. in Biology provides a strong academic foundation and valuable preparation to support your application. We encourage you to review the prerequisite requirements for admission to your future graduate or professional degree program.

Our School of Health, Science & Technology students receive admission to respected graduate schools, including the esteemed institutions listed below.

  • Central Michigan College of Medicine
  • Grand Valley State University
  • Georgia State University
  • Lake Erie Medical School
  • Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine
  • Ohio State University
  • University of Maryland
  • University of Michigan

 

Influential Careers with a Bachelor of Science in Biology Degree

  • Biologist
  • Medical or Health Researcher
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Biochemist
  • Geneticist
  • Zoologist
  • Microbiologist
  • Forensic Scientist

 

With Advanced Education and Training

  • Physician (MD or DO)
  • Dentist
  • Pharmacist
  • Veterinarian
  • Physical Therapist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Physician Assistant
  • University Professor or Research Scientist
  • Chiropractor

Tuition

On-Campus

$22,000 per year

Generous scholarship and payment options available.
Review information about student fees and housing packages on our Tuition & Fees page.

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  3. Maximize your credits — you could transfer in up to 75% of your degree credits.
  4. Discover affordability — scholarships and grants are available for qualified students.

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SAT & SUN: Closed

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