program Type Department School
Undergraduate Major, Undergraduate Minor Biology School of Science

Your biology journey is more than just a degree—it’s your launchpad to a future in medicine, research, and beyond. From day one, you’ll dive into hands-on lab work, gain real-world skills, and learn directly from expert professors who not only know your name, but care about your success.

What Makes Our Biology Program Different?

  • You’ll Build Skills That Matter: From gene editing with CRISPR to anatomical dissection, you’ll practice real techniques used by professionals in the field. Imagine mastering tools that top medical schools use—right in your undergraduate labs.
  • You’ll Design Your Own Experiments: In our unique "Scientific Writing" course, you’re not just learning science—you’re doing it. You'll design, carry out, and write about your experiments, gaining experience that sets you apart when applying to grad schools or jobs.
  • You’ll Have a Community: Yes, the work is challenging, but you’re not alone. You'll form strong bonds with classmates and professors, creating a support system that makes the journey rewarding and fun.

Andrew Nguyen

Accepted into the early acceptance program for the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), Andrew spent 3 years at Siena conducting research in molecular neurobiology. Now he’s in med school, applying the skills and knowledge he gained at Siena.

Klaudia Poplawski

Now pursuing a Ph.D. in Cell & Molecular Biology/Cancer Biology at Colorado State University, Klaudia’s research experience at Siena investigating cellular pH and aging was a crucial stepping stone to her doctoral studies.

Nicole Patille

Nicole is attending Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, demonstrating how Siena’s rigorous preparation made her vet school-ready.

Brendan Nashelsky

Graduating at the top of his class from Albany Law School, Brendan is now a restructuring attorney at Kirkland & Ellis, showing the versatility of a Siena Biology degree.

Career Success is Closer Than You Think

You’ll join a community of Siena Biology graduates working as doctors, dentists, veterinarians, researchers, and more. The program provides a direct path to fields like medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and environmental conservation. Many alumni continue their studies at Albany Medical College, Cornell University, New York University, the University at Buffalo School of Medicine, and other top institutions. Others launch careers at organizations like Boston Scientific, General Electric, Labcorp, Regeneron, Pfizer, Albany Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, the New York State Police Forensic Identification Unit, and the U.S. Air Force.

logos of companies that siena biology graduates work at

frequently asked questions

1. Is biology a good major for pre-med?

Yes. Biology is a popular choice for students planning to attend medical school because it provides a strong foundation in the life sciences and can align well with many medical school prerequisites. Siena students can also take advantage of dedicated pre-health advising and preparation.

2. Can I use a biology degree to prepare for dental, veterinary, or other health professional schools?

Yes. Biology can prepare students for a wide range of health professions, including dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant programs, and more.

3. What is the difference between biology and biochemistry?

Biology explores living organisms and biological systems broadly, while biochemistry focuses more specifically on the chemical processes that occur within living things. Students who enjoy studying organisms, cells, genetics, ecology, and physiology may prefer biology, while those especially interested in chemistry at the molecular level may prefer biochemistry.

4. Do I have to go to graduate or professional school with a biology degree?

No. While many biology majors continue to medical, dental, veterinary, or graduate school, a bachelor’s degree in biology can also lead directly to careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, laboratory science, environmental science, healthcare, and other fields.

5. What can I specialize in as a biology major?

Biology is a broad field, so students can shape their studies around interests such as molecular and cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, ecology, anatomy and physiology, or other areas through their coursework, research, and experiential opportunities.