Guide To Majors
A Career Planning Tool
Smith Career Center (0128)
Corner of Washington Street and West Campus Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24061
phone (540) 231-6241
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Printer-friendly report for Biological Sciences
Related information:
| Description of Major | Department Contacts | Change of Major Process | Graduate Study | Career Resources |
| Skills Developed | Entry-level Opportunities | Getting Experience | VT CareerLink | Post-Graduation Report |
Biological Sciences: Description of Major
Biological Sciences is the study of life. In addition to providing a broad education in the fundamentals, the curriculum allows for more specialized training in ecology, genetics, microbiology, botany, zoology, molecular biology, or related fields.
The department offers formal options of study within biological sciences, including: biobusiness, biotechnology, clinical laboratory science, ecology, food science and technology, microbiology and immunology, and pre-pharmacy.
Students pursuing the clinical laboratory science, nursing and pharmacy options who complete the college and departmental core requirements in three years may transfer any remaining credits from their first year of studies at an approved clinical laboratory science or pharmacy program back to Virginia Tech to receive a B.S. in biological sciences.
The biological sciences curriculum also prepares students for graduate school and professional schools in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and related fields. Most students pursuing options in the major find employment immediately upon graduation. To enhance professional development and employment potential, faculty members encourage students to participate in undergraduate research opportunities and/or the Cooperative Education Program.
Program Areas / Concentrations / Options:
PreMed, Dent, Veterinary Option
- Preparation For Medicine
The training afforded by the first three years (approximately 96 hours) meets the pre-medical training requirements of medical colleges that accept students with only three years of undergraduate work. It is strongly recommended, however, that all students complete the B.S. before entering medical school.
Preparation For Dentistry
Dental colleges require a minimum of three years of college training for admission, but it is generally advisable for students to complete the B.S. before entering dental school.
Preparation For Allied Health Professions
Schools of Allied Health Professions, such as nursing, pharmacy, medical technology, physical therapy, etc., require two or more years of college work for admission. Specific requirements are available from Career Services or the biology department.
Preparation For Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary schools require a minimum of two years of college training for admission. Few students who meet only the minimum entrance requirements are accepted by veterinary schools.