Biology-General Biology
The General Biology Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of biology, including cellular, molecular, ecological, and evolutionary processes. The curriculum integrates cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and research methodology, enabling students to investigate living systems, analyze biological data, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students engage in laboratory work, field research, and applied projects, cultivating the technical proficiency and analytical abilities essential for professional or academic careers in biology, healthcare, environmental sciences, or related fields.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, laboratory exercises, and collaborative research guided by faculty experts in molecular biology, ecology, genetics, and physiology. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and interdisciplinary research, preparing graduates to design experiments, evaluate biological systems, and apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, technical proficiency, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in biology, biomedical research, environmental science, or healthcare.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Biology-General Biology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Biology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in General Biology
- Introduction to Biology and Laboratory Techniques
- Cell Biology and Molecular Principles
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
- Fundamentals of Genetics and Organismal Biology
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Biological Systems
- Ecology and Environmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology and Comparative Organismal Studies
- Applied Laboratory and Field Research
- Electives: Microbiology, Botany, or Zoology
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
- Applied Research Projects in Biological Sciences
- Systems Biology and Physiological Processes
- Electives: Neurobiology, Bioinformatics, or Conservation Biology
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Biological Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research Labs, Environmental Agencies, or Healthcare Organizations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the General Biology program are prepared for careers in biological research, biotechnology, environmental science, healthcare, education, and conservation. Alumni may work as laboratory researchers, environmental analysts, educators, or pursue graduate studies in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, ecology, or medical sciences. The program equips graduates to analyze biological systems, conduct experiments, and apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. With strong analytical, research, and technical skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on scientific investigation, biological research, and applied life sciences.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of biological theory, laboratory practice, applied research, and interdisciplinary study within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, laboratory and fieldwork experiences, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in research, healthcare, and environmental management. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, experimental design, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to conduct scientific investigations, interpret data, and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic initiatives. For students passionate about biology, scientific discovery, and applied research, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
