What you will study
Together, our core Biology courses and Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental program
electives ready you for advanced studies in medicine, pharmacy, veterinary science,
dentistry, optometry or chiropractic medicine.
Start with a foundation of core courses in the Biology BS, including cellular and
molecular processes, chemistry, physics, mathematics, microbiology and genetics. Then,
choose your area of specialization.
Electives allow you to explore different fields in biology while strengthening your
grasp of animal and human biological systems. You can choose from topics for Biology
Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental majors such as:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Serology Laboratory
- Hematology/Virology
Throughout your coursework in UCM’s Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental programs,
you’ll master the basics of the scientific method and practice these tools and techniques
in lab-based classes.
Excellence in Biology
- Best Value College for Biological & Biomedical Sciences (College Factual, 2022)
Unique learning opportunities in Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental programs
Hands-on classes, research projects, fieldwork and student support prepare you for
medical school in Missouri or another state.
- Faculty mentoring: You’ll receive one-on-one attention in an active learning format to prepare you to
work in any lab setting. Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental majors work directly
with Ph.D.-level faculty in face-to-face, lab-based courses and on cocurricular research
studies.
- Cocurricular research projects: As true teacher-scholars, program faculty lead biology service clubs and honor societies.
They also involve undergraduate students in grant-funded research and grant writing,
providing experience in scientific writing and presentations at professional meetings.
These experiences can help you gain competitive advantages in the job market or when
you apply to grad school.
- Case study-based labs: Many of the biology classes are hands on, too. For example, in Human Physiology, you’ll
collect biological data from your classmates to predict responses in disease case
studies. This direct application of the scientific method lays a solid foundation
for you to develop analysis and research skills.
- Senior projects and internships: Learn to work in a team and make connections with public- and private-sector professionals
during internships. These experiences will help to pave the way for research careers
and graduate school opportunities. Your senior project in your chosen specialty area
and the close collaborations you’ll have with UCM faculty and GAs will help you define
your future goals.
What can you do with a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Med, Pre-Dental or Pre-Vet from UCM?
Biology majors have a number of job options. If you want to make a significant contribution
to human or animal health, your Biology BS will open up career pathways such as:
- Medical doctor
- Veterinarian
- Dental surgeon
- Pharmacist
- Ophthamologist
Explore your career options for medical school in Missouri and across the United States
Many Biology Pre-Med program graduates pursue advanced degrees. Your studies at the
University of Central Missouri prepare you to pass the MCAT entrance exams if you
plan to attend medical school.
Use the interactive tool below to explore potential salaries and career pathways with
a Bachelor of Science degree focused on Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental programs.
Financial assistance options for your Pre-Med, Pre-Dental or Pre-Vet degree
As a Biology major at the University of Central Missouri, you may qualify for university
scholarships and awards, including UCM-sponsored Honors College Scholars and McNair
Scholarships. You could also explore several other resources for financing your undergraduate education. This can help keep your college costs and student debt low before you start medical
school in Missouri or throughout the United States.
You may also be eligible for scholarships specifically for Biology majors, including
those studying in Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental programs. These are just
a few examples
- John Hess Health Professions Scholarship
- Carlos Kays Biology and Earth Science Scholarship
- Charles Hinerman Memorial Scholarship
- Kathryn Eydt Payne Scholarship
You can learn more about program-specific scholarships at the UCM Scholarship Finder.
State-of-the-Art Labs and Facilities
Renovated learning sites in Warrensburg, Missouri
Two teaching labs, a core-series lecture hall, new classrooms, updated student workspace/lounge
and other upgrades have recently been completed. UCM’s facilities also include cellular,
molecular and wildlife research labs; a 3,000+ square-foot animal/aquatic research
center; and our on-campus 300-acre nature preserve and outdoor classrooms.
Meet Caleb S.
BS Biology ’15 - Medical Doctor
“The professors of UCM provided individualized mentorship that catalyzed personal
and professional growth. Due to their efforts, I was able to excel in the life sciences
and ultimately go on to earn my medical degree. I truly cherish the years I spent
at this school.”
Meet Our Faculty
Professionals with research expertise
The UCM Biology program faculty are widely published in the British Journal of Medicine,
Developmental Cell, Journal of Developmental Biology, Biotechniques, Comparative Biochemistry
and Physiology and other scientific journals. Their ongoing research projects offer
you opportunities to directly engage in research, pursue internships and connect with
professionals in related fields.
Faculty Research Areas
Pertle Springs Nature Preserve
Real-life program studies for Biology Pre-Med, Pre-Vet and Pre-Dental majors
UCM’s 300-acre, on-campus nature preserve is a central location to hone your teamwork
skills and study in outdoor classroom labs. You’ll conduct research studies, learn
anatomy, study animal physiology and behavior and practice all your skills and techniques
in outdoor settings.
Meet Mattaline K.
BS Biology ‘22, accepted to MU Medical School
“UCM prepared me for my future by providing me with incredible mentors who have supported
and encouraged me in reaching my goals. UCM has exposed me to a diverse group of students
and faculty that has cultivated an enriched perspective of the world. These opportunities
have truly changed my life!”
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