Major/Minor
Biology Department
The Biology program offers a broadly based approach to biological systems, ranging from molecular and cellular to ecological and evolutionary biology. It incorporates emerging areas of biology and integrates these with traditional organismal studies. Opportunities for hypothesis-driven experimentation that demands initiative, creativity, and independent research projects are built into the curriculum.
student in science lab
Program Location

Available Majors

  • Biology

Available Minors

  • Biology

Additional Study Options

Four-Year Plan

Below is a sample program of study for the biology major. Many alternatives are possible; please consult a department representative to discuss options.

Students should select courses with the assistance of a faculty adviser and be aware that course cycling will impact upper-level course selection.

Fall Spring
First Year   
NDMU-100 Perspectives in Education 4 BIO-230 Unity and Diversity 4
BIO-111 Fundamentals of Biology 4 CHM-111 General Chemistry II 4
CHM-110 General Chemistry I 4 General Education/Electives 6-9
General Education/Electives 3-6 [14-17 credits]  
[14-17 credits]      
Second Year  
BIO-239 Genetics 4 One or two 300- or 400-level Biology 3-8
CHM-210 Organic Chemistry I 4 CHM-211 Organic Chemistry II 4
MAT-211 Calculus I 4 MAT-215 Statistics 4
General Education/Electives 3-6 General Education/Electives 3-6
[15-18 credits]   [14-18 credits]  
Third Year  
One or two 300- or 400-level Biology 3-8 One or two 300- or 400-level Biology 3-8
PHY-101 General Physics I 4 PHY-102 General Physics II 4
General Education/Electives 3-6 General Education/Electives 3-6
[14-18 credits]   [14-18 credits]  
Fourth Year  
One or two 300- or 400-level Biology 3-8 One or two 300- or 400-level Biology 3-8
General Education/Electives 3-9 BIO-451 Senior Seminar 2
[14-18 credits]   General Education/Electives 3-9
    [14-18 credits]  

What to Expect Studying at Notre Dame of Maryland University

Small classes, lectures and seminars explore current trends and provide a climate for individualized learning.

A headshot of Alycia Hancock
Student

Alycia Hancock

Why I Chose NDMU

Student, NDMU Class of 2023
Biology
“I think Catholic social teaching is a value that is world renowned. Notre Dame is my mom’s alma mater, and once I saw the academic rigor I knew I wanted to apply as well. I got into the honors program, received a presidential scholarship and there’s been a world of opportunities ever since.”

Research & Internship Opportunities

As a biology major, you are encouraged to pursue basic or applied research either on-campus or at local universities or research institutions.

Opportunities to present your work include Notre Dame's annual research symposium in April, Nancy Kreiter Student Research Day, and at local and national meetings featuring undergraduate research. Top students are eligible to join the Sister Alma Science Year fellowship that engages them in hands-on research with scientists at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Note: The Biology Department does not participate in or otherwise facilitate experimentation with live laboratory vertebrates.

Examples of Research Opportunities

Internships in the biological sciences or in medical or allied health fields are available during the fall, winter, spring and summer semesters.

Biology Careers

We prepare you for employment opportunities in research laboratories, medical and government facilities, pharmaceutical companies and other industries.

Possible Career Opportunities

  • Nursing
  • Dentistry
  • Pharmacy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Public Health
  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Zoos and Aquaria
  • Forensic Science
  • Food Science
  • Marine Biology
  • Botany and Plant Science
  • Biostatistics
  • Biological Engineering
  • Bioethics
  • Environmental Careers
  • Fisheries and Forestry