Program Overview

Program Course Delivery
Biology - Major On-Campus
Biology - Minor On-Campus

Explore the biology program

Regardless of who we are or where we come from, one thing that connects us is the science of life. From the smallest cell structures to the biggest environments, your understanding of biology will expand to new lengths. A blend of biology and chemistry creates a perfect solution for reaching goals. Do you want to conduct research, obtain an incredible internship abroad, attend graduate school, or jump into a desired career? All of these are possible with this degree.

Biology is a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.

Biology Major

Student with a fresh water sponge

The biology program provides students with a broad knowledge of the biological sciences while introducing them to the practical skills needed in today's biotech industries, as well as the background required to be successful applicants to graduate programs. Students may choose from advanced courses designed to emphasize studies in either animal or plant systems while participating in a common core of courses that provide knowledge in the basic principles relevant to both areas.

After completing the program, graduates will:

  • Use the scientific method in practice, especially hypothesis testing and analysis.
  • Critique and apply analytical protocols from current literature.
  • Demonstrate and identify effective communication skills.
  • Recognize personal strengths and limitations, and value the perspectives brought by others’ worldviews and expertise.
  • Demonstrate understanding of and practice professional ethical behavior.
  • Objectively evaluate biologically relevant issues to make science-based decisions in a culturally sensitive manner.
  • Use expertise in biology to help solve problems of the world within a context of global competence.

Biology Major Courses

Biology Minor

Student working on a microscope in a lab

The biology minor program introduces students to the core concepts in a broad range of biological areas with two possible emphases, animal or plant biology. It is designed to complement majors in animal sciences, agriculture, and natural resources but can be tailored for students in other majors.

Biology Minor Courses

Two students collecting samples in a river

Research more: inside and out

  • Field trips and small-sized labs allow for more hands-on experience. 
  • Grant-funded, large-scale research projects are integrated into laboratory coursework.
  • Students have the opportunity to attend and present at scientific conferences.

Awards and Accreditation

The University of Minnesota Crookston is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Student Experiences

UMN Women basketball player holding a basketball while yelling at the camera
Two students having a conversation while looking at a laptop
A women smiling while glancing outside of the window.
Two female students smiling while looking at a laptop screen
Image of a basketball gym.

Average Cost After Aid

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$13,436

Average amount of grants & scholarships received (2022-2023 data)

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$12,894

Average net price after grants &
scholarships (2021-2022 data)

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$22,883

Average TOTAL student loan debt after
graduation (2022-2023)

Scholarship and Funding Options

The University of Minnesota Crookston provides quick and easy access to over $1 million worth of scholarship opportunities for new and returning students!

Your Future Professors

Katy Chapman
Associate Professor, Sustainability Coordinator
Brian Dingmann
Associate Professor
Timothy Dudley
Professor, Faculty Athletics Representative
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Teaching Specialist
Joseph Shostell PhD
Professor

What is Campus Life Like?

Residential Life

University of Minnesota Crookston's residence halls are ranked #1 public college dorms in Minnesota by Niche. The residential halls are clean, safe, spacious and modern. There is a mix of traditional style rooms, suites, and apartments available on-campus which include amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, walk-closets, and full size kitchens with all major appliances. There are also beautiful common spaces in every residential building that are great places to hangout, play games, study, or relax. Schedule a tour to see for yourself why they're ranked #1!

Students gathered together playing cards in their dorm room located in Centennial Hall.
Photo of a dorm room in Evergreen Hall
Living room in Heritage Hall.
A photo of a dorm room in McCall Hall
A photo of a dorm room in Skyberg Hall
A women getting food at a salad bar.
Server handing stacked takeout boxes to a customer at a counter.
Students ordering food at Eagles Nest.
A collage featuring a women eating various foods.

Student Stories

A woman at a dog show with an Australian Shepherd, smiling outdoors in a sweatshirt, and dressed formally holding an award with two people.

U of M Crookston senior aspires to become a veterinarian following ten years of professional dog showing

She is a biology major with a chemistry minor and an animal science minor. Turman has a deep love for animals, so much so she trained and professionally showed Australian Shepherds in conformation dog shows for ten years and was ranked the number one American Kennel Club (AKC) All-Breed Junior Handler in the United States for 2018.
Steven Gonzalez holding a freshwater sponge

Steven Gonzalez - Biology and Health Sciences Major

Steven Gonzalez Biology and Health Sciences double major Steven Gonzalez’s experience as a student on the Crookston campus is the subject of an online video representing the campus among the five University of Minnesota system campuses.