Earn Your Biology Degree From a Christian College

The Charleston Southern biology program is tailored to the most relevant subjects for your career choice upon graduation. CSU’s biology major offers a large number of biology electives covering plants, animals, humans, microbes and the environment. And, this degree program offers emphases in general biology, medical laboratory science, preprofessional and wildlife.

Many universities reserve their most expensive instruments and equipment for graduate students. A unique feature of CSU is that all equipment is used in undergraduate labs and/or undergraduate research so that students develop hands-on skills with as many instruments as possible thereby improving their success in graduate programs or on the job.

Recent research projects include dating and characterizing Pleistocene elk antlers in South Carolina, aluminum toxicity in plants, Pteridophytes on Hobcaw Barony, and the role of lipoteichoic acid (LTA) on Listeria monocytogenes biofilm formation, human Alu dimorphism at the PV92 locus of chromosome 16, and toxicity effects on Daphnia magna.

Accreditation:

Charleston Southern University’s accreditation can be found here.

Learn to Practice Biology from a Christian Perspective

The biology programs emphasize the core values of honesty and integrity intertwined with the principles of Christianity on which CSU was founded. We practice the discovery of truth through the scientific method of data analysis while producing learners who are dedicated to a serving attitude as they emerge as leaders in the field of biology. We value the philosophy that a biologist is always ready to apply their abilities for the benefit of mankind along with environmental stewardship of the earth.

As a Biology major, you’ll take courses like…

  • Immunology
  • Clinical Hematology
  • Zoology
  • Genetics
  • Ecology
  • Microbiology
  • Cell and Molecular Biology

Graduates are equipped for a variety of biology careers.

  • Medical Laboratory Scientist
  • Marine Biologist
  • Environmental/Wildlife Biologist
  • Molecular Biologist
  • Forensic Biologist
  • Public Health Professional
  • Medical Doctor, Physician Assistant, and Dentistry
  • Zoologist or Aquarium Specialist
  • Pharmacist 
  • Veterinarian
  • Government Agencies

You can choose from these emphases.

This curriculum is designed for the student who does not wish to attend a graduate program but plans to seek employment upon graduation. The emphasis includes a variety of biology electives to prepare the student for many job opportunities.

The medical laboratory science emphasis is the only program of its kind in the Charleston area. Certified medical laboratory scientists are in demand. CSU’s program averages a first time certification exam pass rate of 96% while the national average is 79%.

This program is designed to train medical laboratory scientists to take the MLS certification exam. Medical laboratory professionals complete the diagnostic tests medical doctors require for accurate disease diagnosis and treatment. Students in the MLS program complete a year of clinical courses/rotations at approved affiliate laboratories including the labs at Medical University of South Carolina.

Research courses allow students to strengthen their critical thinking skills, apply for grants and publish or present their findings at professional society meetings. The blending of science rigor with a Christian perspective uniquely prepares Charleston Southern students to be leaders in their field exhibiting high levels of honesty, integrity and concern for mankind and the environment. This emphasis also prepares students for professional schools and degrees such as MD, PhD, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant and veterinary programs.

The curriculum prepares you to apply for certification with the Wildlife Society and to be competitive in wildlife biology careers. Charleston Southern is in close proximity to historic sites and beaches for enjoyment and field study. Students in this major have completed internships with World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace and North Carolina Coastal Federation.

Students in a lab injecting a chemical into a vile.

The College of Science and Mathematics

Charleston Southern’s College of Science and Mathematics ensures through its curricula and course offerings that students in all majors demonstrate an understanding of the continuing role of science and mathematics in human progress. In addition, it provides majors in science and science related fields with the necessary skills for successful careers in their chosen major or for further study in graduate school or professional programs.

explore our facilities

Science Building

The building houses chemistry, biology and research labs, faculty offices and classrooms. A greenhouse is located adjacent to the science building. The greenhouse contains more than 50 different varieties of orchids: both hybrids and species. There is also a bog garden with more than 30 different species of carnivorous plants.

explore our facilities

Science and Engineering Building

The Science and Engineering Building is a 17,500-square-foot space that houses labs, office space, and work rooms for student and faculty use in programs such as cybersecurity, aeronautics, and engineering. CSU plans to expand the building in future to reach a total of 28,000-square-feet.

PREVIOUS
NEXT

The biology program at CSU is full of outstanding professors who not only hold students to high academic standards but also are willing to aid in learning through one-on-one interactions and by building personal relationships with students. The classes offered are not only academically enriching but also a joy to attend. I enjoyed all of my classes in the biology department, and the things I learned help me every day in my career as a biologist.

Robert Hinson / biology, ’18 Fisheries Biologist, Dennis Wildlife Center and Fish Hatchery of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

Related News

Melinda Walker HeadshotWalker receives Excellence in Teaching Award

Walker receives Excellence in Teaching Award

Dr. Melinda Walker was one of 21 winners recognized recently with Excellence in Teaching A…

READ MORE: Walker receives Excellence in Teaching Award
Allison Brown HeadshotAllison Brown receives CIC/UPS Scholarship 

Allison Brown receives CIC/UPS Scholarship 

Allison Brown, a Charleston Southern University sophomore majoring in biology from Patrick…

READ MORE: Allison Brown receives CIC/UPS Scholarship 
Examples from the CSU HerbariumCSU view: herbarium celebrates 10 year anniversary

CSU view: herbarium celebrates 10 year anniversary

It’s been 10 years since the Charleston Southern Herbarium was registered with the New Y…

READ MORE: CSU view: herbarium celebrates 10 year anniversary