Charles A. Cannon College of Arts and Sciences

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Take your degree further...

Through comprehensive coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, biology students begin with the fundamentals, from what you can see (organismal biology) to what you can’t (cellular and molecular biology). Our Biology Intensive Orientation Seminar (BIOS program) serves as a first-year orientation to what lies ahead, providing the skills you’ll need to obtain your degree.

During your first two years as a biology major, you’ll learn fundamentals through challenging coursework and get hands-on experience in the laboratory.

Cellular and Molecular Biology
Ecology
Evolution
Genetics
Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
Microbiology
Anatomy
Physiology
Zoology
Botany

In the last two years, you can narrow your coursework to pursue your interests and choose from a diverse selection of upper-level electives. You can follow a passion for the natural world with classes in:

Animal Evolution and Ecology
Plant Ecology and Evolution
Wildlife Management
Plant Physiology
Environmental Microbiology

For those who intend to pursue graduate study in medicine or research, you might choose classes in:

Advanced Cell Biology
Biochemistry
Reproductive Physiology
Neurobiology
Cancer Biology
Histology
Immunology
Virology

If you prefer animals, you might opt to study:

Wildlife Management
Animal Physiology
Parasitology

Biology Major Overview

Major Requirements

The biology major must complete a minimum of 125 credit hours, and the courses must be completed in sequence.

biology four-year plan

Students can also minor in Biology. Begin by taking 18 hours of biology courses listed in our academic catalog, including Biology 150 and 160. These four-hour courses give you a solid foundation in biological science. You learn about the structure and function of a cell so you’ll have firm footing when you take the other 10 hours. Keep in mind that at least six of the other hours must be at the 200 level or above.

Faculty

Acchia Albury

Associate Professor, Biology

Nicole Barrios

Instructor, Biology

Alison Brown

Professor of Biology

Emily Cole

Lab Manager and Safety Compliance Officer

Debra Davis

Associate Professor, Biology

Tracy Davis

Visiting Assistant Professor, Biology

Patrick Fisher

Assistant Professor

Melissa Fox Powers

Associate Professor, Biology

Renee Hastings

Instructor

Alexandra Jerby

Adjunct Faculty, Biology

Ed Mills

Marjorie H. Lang Professor, Biology

Gena Moore

Director/Instructor, Agriculture Food Systems

Erika Niland

Professor and Biology Department Chair

Haley Pillars

Instructor, Biology

Brandi Risley

Administrative Assistant

Mark Rollins

Biology Instructor

Brett Schofield

Assistant Professor

Shem Unger

Assistant Professor, Biology

Career Opportunities

Biology graduates are well prepared for careers in science that may or may not include graduate school or professional programs. From freshman year, our faculty help you hone your vision and find the right opportunities outside of the classroom to enhance your career readiness.

Wingate University’s agreement with Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine guarantees admission to as many as 15 Wingate graduates each year.

research opportunities

At Wingate, my biology professors pushed me to become a better student, as well as a better human being. Dr. Acchia Albury and Dr. Debra Davis have remained in contact with me as I navigate the path of becoming a doctor. Their classes specifically are similar to the classes that I am taking in medical school right now, and I would encourage everyone to find a professor that will challenge and prepare them the same way they did for me.Jovante Dockery, Class of 2020, Biology Major

Questions?

Dr. Erika Niland
(704) 233-8323
e.niland@wingate.edu