Bachelor of Science in Biology

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Program Overview

Degree:

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Application:

$0 application fee. No essays/exams.

Become equipped to stake your claim in the worlds of emerging diseases, genetic studies, physiology and biodiversity, threats to species and ecosystem functioning, and global population increase and sustainability with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. The vocational choices for BS in Biology degree holders are broad and fascinating. Careers include those in medical professions, genetics, molecular and cell biology, biotechnology, microbiology, conservation biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, animal and plant science, as well as science writing, editing, and education.

If you’d like to include an interdisciplinary approach to your academic training, this degree allows for the integration of study in the life sciences, with coursework in the physical and earth sciences, as well as applied fields such as forensics. You can also consider the Bachelor of Science in Biology to Master of Forensic Science Transition program for your future.

Please note that this program has requirements that can only be satisfied in-person in San Diego, CA. Students must be able to attend these requirements in-person, onsite.

Degree Requirements

To receive a Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology, students must complete at least 180 quarter units as articulated below, 45 of which must be completed in residence at National University, 76.5 of which must be completed at the upper division level, and a minimum 69 units of the University General Education requirements. In the absence of transfer credit, additional general electives may be necessary to satisfy total units for the degree. Refer to the section on undergraduate admission requirements for specific information regarding admission and evaluation. All students receiving an undergraduate degree in Nevada are required by State Law to complete a course in Nevada Constitution.

National University awards credit in quarter units, with each academic year divided into four 12-week quarters. 

Each quarter is made up of three 4-week classes, with one class per month. Under the current policy, 4.5 units of credit are awarded for courses.

Completion of BIO 100, 100A, 201, 201A, 202, 202A, 203, 203A is equivalent to the course sequence BIO 161, 162, 163, 169A for fulfillment of the BS Biology degree.

Preparation for the Major

17 Courses

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MTH 12A and MTH 12B, or Accuplacer test placement evaluation

An introduction to statistics and probability theory. Covers simple probability distributions, conditional probability (Bayes Rule), independence, expected value, binomial distributions, the Central Limit Theorem, hypothesis testing. Assignments may utilize the MiniTab software, or text-accompanying course-ware. Computers are available at the University’s computer lab. Calculator with statistical functions is required.

MTH 210 Or the following 2 courses:

3.0 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MTH 12A and MTH 12B, or Accuplacer test placement evaluation

The first part of a comprehensive two-month treatment of algebra and trigonometry preliminary to more specialized study in mathematics. The course covers higher degree polynomials, rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, transformations and the algebra of function, matrix algebra and basic arithmetic of complex numbers.

3.0 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MTH 216A

The second month of a comprehensive two-month treatment of algebra and trigonometry; this course is a continuation of MTH 216A. Topics include trigonometric functions, analytic trigonometry and application, parametric equations, matrix algebra, sequences and series, and applied problems. Graphing calculator may be required.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MTH 215 or equivalent

General chemistry topics important for higher level chemistry and science courses: thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and quantum mechanics. Successful completion of a college algebra course is required for enrollment in this course.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: CHE 141

Second course of general chemistry, covering: bonding, solutions, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acids/bases, and thermodynamics.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: CHE 149A

Prerequisite: CHE 142

Third course of general chemistry, covering: electro, nuclear, organic, bio, and coordination chemistry. Chemistry of metals and non-metals is also covered.

4.5 Quarter Units

Fundamental concepts of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics. Concepts include important organic molecules, cell structure and function, metabolism and enzyme activity, cellular respiration and photosynthesis, DNA structure, meiosis and mitosis, Mendelian genetics. Intended for science majors.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161

Evolution, taxonomy, biodiversity, ecology. Concepts include evolutionary processes, taxonomy and phylogeny of the kingdoms of life, and ecological processes at the levels of the population, community and ecosystem. Intended for science majors.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 169A

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162

Morphology and physiology of multicellular organisms, particularly plants and animals. Concepts include plant structure and physiology, and comparative animal morphology and physiology. Intended for science majors.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MTH 215, or MTH 216A and MTH 216B

Non-calculus based general physics course. Intended for Science majors. Study of one-dimensional and two – dimensional kinematics, dynamics, statics, work, energy, linear momentum, circular motion and gravitation.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: PHS 171

Non-calculus based general physics course for Science majors. Study of temperature, kinetic theory, gas laws, heat, oscillatory motion and waves, and electricity.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: PHS 179A

Prerequisite: PHS 171; PHS 172

Non-calculus based general physics course intended for Science majors. Extended study of magnetism, electromagnetic induction and waves, optics, relativity, quantum physics, nuclear reactions and elementary particles.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: CHE 101 and CHE 101A, or CHE 141 and CHE 142 and CHE 143 and CHE 149A

Introduction to the fundamentals of organic chemistry. This course covers the properties and reactions of hydrocarbons and their functional groups, aromatic compounds, and biological molecules. Special efforts are made in demonstrating the interrelationship between organic chemistry and other areas of science, particularly biological, health, and environmental sciences.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: CHE 150

This course is designed to introduce students to the practical aspects of organic chemistry. This course covers basic techniques for handling, analyzing, and identifying organic compounds. In addition, students will learn how to synthesize simple and practical small organic molecules.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: ABA 622

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162

Laboratory course in general biology intended for science majors. Topics include the application of the scientific method, examination of cellular processes (eg. respiration, photosynthesis, mitosis, meiosis), Mendelian genetics, operation of basic laboratory equipment, taxonomic classification, and investigations of structure and function of prokaryotes, protists, fungi, plants, and animals.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: CHE 143

Augments student understanding of important concepts in chemistry through hands-on experiments. Students will become proficient in advanced chemistry laboratory techniques, will learn how to operate modern instruments, will acquire the necessary skills to collect data accurately and to perform error analyses.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: PHS 171 and PHS 172 and PHS 173, or PHS 104

General physics lab course for science majors. Includes lab practicum in major concepts of general physics: one and two-dimensional kinematics, work and energy, electric current, oscillations, and geometric optics.

*May be used to meet General Education requirements

Requirements for the Major

12 Courses

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A

A study of the relationship of plants and animals to their environment and to one another. Emphasizes populations, the population-community interface and community structure and interactions within the ecosystem.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 143; CHE 149A

Principles of genetics and heredity. Topics include linkage and pedigree analysis, DNA replication and repair, gene expression and regulation, inheritance of traits, genetic engineering, relationship of genetics to human health, and application of genetics to understanding the evolution of species.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A

Evolutionary biology. Topics include the history of life, fossil record, causes of microevolution (including natural selection and mutation), macroevolutionary processes (including speciation and extinction), evolutionary genetics and developmental biology (“evo-devo”), phylogeny construction and taxonomy.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A

Corequisite: BIO 406A

Introduction to cellular biology, including fundamentals of cell structure and function, inter- and intracellular communication through signaling and signal transduction, cell growth and energy generation through aerobic respiration and photosynthesis. Examination of cellular events and analysis of specific case studies in cell biology.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 406; 

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A

This course emphasizes techniques essential to cellular biology, including cell culturing, Western blotting, ELISA, and DNA, RNA, and protein extractions.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A; BIO 305

Corequisite: BIO 407A

An introduction to molecular biology focusing on gene structure, organization, regulation and expression. Topics in genetic engineering and genome evolution are covered, as well as DNA replication, recombination, transcription and post-transcriptional mechanisms in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 407

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A; BIO 305

This course emphasizes techniques essential to molecular biology including DNA extraction, purification and quantification; polymerase chain reactions; and restriction enzyme digestion.

1.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A

Corequisite: BIO 414A

Comparative study of invertebrates: taxonomy, structure, physiology, reproduction, evolution, and behavior.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 414

Laboratory complement of invertebrate zoology, involving specimen investigations, demonstrations, and experiments. Contact hours (45.0) are based on a 3:1 ratio; i.e., 3 lab hours = 1 lecture hour equivalent.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A

Corequisite: BIO 416A

Study of the life of Vertebrates integrating the anatomy, physiology, ecology, evolution and behavioral adaptations that enable them to survive effectively in their natural environment.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 416

Laboratory complement of vertebrate zoology, involving specimen investigations, anatomical examination, and live observations when feasible.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 305, or BIO 310, or BIO 330

Examination of current topics in biology. Emphasis on evaluation, discussion, and analysis of peer-reviewed literature.

Upper-Division Electives

7 Courses

Students may select only 300, 400, or 500 level in the College of Letters and Sciences to complete the total of 76.5 quarter units of upper division for the degree. Suggested upper-division courses are given below.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 100A

Study of animal behavior, integrating genetic, physiological, ecological, and evolutionary perspectives.

4.5 Quarter Units

Recommended Preparation: BIO 203, or BIO 406, or equivalent courses.

Examination of the structure and function of the immune components, including the complement system, innate and adaptive responses, and immune cell signaling. Analysis of fundamental concepts such as antibodies, antigens, antigen-antibody complexes, allergic reactions, lymphatic and hematopoietic systems, cancer, and autoimmune and immunodeficiency diseases.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 169A; CHE 141; CHE 142; CHE 143; CHE 149A

Plant biology, including structure, function, evolution, taxonomy, and diversity of major groups of plants.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161; BIO 162; BIO 163; BIO 100A, or BIO 100; BIO 100A

Study of the flora, fauna, and biomes of California. This course includes field trips, with sites selected for each academic center within the University.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BIO 161 with a minimum grade of C. Student must have taken General Biology or equivalent ; BIO 162 with a minimum grade of C. Student must have taken General Biology or equivalent ; BIO 163 with a minimum grade of C. Student must have taken General Biology or equivalent

Global approach to the science of marine biology. Study of life in the marine environment and the structure and function of various marine ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, and estuaries. Analysis and evaluation of the human impact on ocean ecology.

4.5 Quarter Units

Recommended Preparation: BIO 162 with a minimum grade of C. Student must have a grade of C or higher

Survey of marine habitats for fish species identification and quantification; survey of marine mammal (dolphins and manatees) ecology and behavior; identification of sea turtle species nesting and ecology; assessment of sea grass health and species identification; coral identification and health; ecosystem health and methods of monitoring. Species list composition, biopsying techniques, and basics of biological field work. Taught in a field laboratory in Turneffe Atoll, Belize; requires international travel. Contact instructor for approval and additional requirements.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 470A

Prerequisite: BIO 161 with a minimum grade of C-. Student must have passed the class with a C- or better; BIO 162 with a minimum grade of C-. Student must have passed the class with a C- or better; BIO 163 with a minimum grade of C-. Student must have passed the class with a C- or better

Analysis of biotechnology-related information using software tools to store, manipulate, and extract information from protein and nucleic acid sequence data. Topics include genome annotation, gene and protein prediction, sequence alignment, and analysis of aligned sequences in the description of patterns of protein or species relationships and gene expression.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: BIO 470

Techniques essential to bioinformatics. Topics include practical knowledge of databases, basic commands in Unix and R, sequence alignment and annotation, and gene-expression quantification.

4.5 Quarter Units

Project-based study in biology under the individual direction of the faculty. Topics and sites are specifically designed in collaboration with teachers and students. Units can be taken separately or cumulatively; this course can be repeated depending upon the needs of individual students.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: BCHE 142

Introduces students to the chemistry of carbon compounds and their properties, structures and reactions. It emphasizes the study of the properties and reactions of aliphatic, halides, alcohols, esters, thiols and sulfides, and aromatic compounds, which in conjunction with selected experiments, gives an understanding of the mechanisms of organic reactions.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: CHE 350 Minimum C

Students will learn how to apply common laboratory techniques to determine the structure and the chemical properties of alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, alkyl halides, acids and esters. The experiments will be done on a small scale approach or microscale. Contact hours for this laboratory course (45) are based on a 3:1 ratio, i.e. 3 Lab hours= 1 lecture hour equivalent.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: CHE 350

Study of the properties and reactions of aromatic compounds, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, amines, and amides. In addition, students are introduced to the use of modern spectroscopic techniques to analyze and predict structures of organic molecules.

1.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: CHE 351 Minimum C

Students will apply laboratory techniques learned in CHE350A to synthesize , purify and identify organic compounds including alcohols, aldehydes, aromatics, ketones, ethers, esters, amides and amines. The experiments will be done on a small scale approach or microscale. Contact hours for this laboratory course (45) are based on a 3:1 ratio, i.e. 3 Lab hours= 1 lecture hour equivalent.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: CHE 350; CHE 350A; CHE 351

Study of the structures and functions of important classes of biological molecules: proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids. A strong and current background in chemistry is required to successfully complete this course.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: CHE 360

A continuation of CHE 360. This course concentrates on the principles of cellular regulatory processes and synthesis of biological molecules.

4.5 Quarter Units

Examination of the interactions between oceanographic, geological and astronomical processes on the physical and living components of the world’s oceans. Includes interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere and how these interactions affect currents, weather and biological activity.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MTH 215, or MTH 216A and MTH 216B and MTH 210

An introductory to mathematical modeling, utilizing a variety of diverse applications from physical, biological, business, social, and computer sciences. Discuss the limitations, as well as the capabilities, of mathematics as applied to understanding of our world. Teaches problem identification, models of solutions and model implementation. Graphing calculator is required.

4.5 Quarter Units

Interdisciplinary features in Geographic Information Systems. Aspects include geography, cartography, and computer science for scientific, business, and environmental applications. This will include teaching the student how to input spatial data into the computer, organize the data and perform basic spatial operations.

0.5 Quarter Units

Individual study under direction of instructor. Requires prior approval of appropriate academic department.

*Enrollment in this course requires Instructors permission

Bachelor of Science in Biology, Master of Forensic Science Transition Program

The BS Biology to MFS transition program allows students who are enrolled in the BS Biology with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 and who are within completing their last six courses to register for two courses in the MFS program as electives for the bachelor’s degree. Students may choose from the following courses: FSC 630, FSC 633, FSC634, FSC 635 or FSC 642. The two graduate courses are restricted to those that do not require a prerequisite. Students must complete all transition program coursework with a grade of B or better. The number of courses required to earn an MFS degree for transition program students is reduced from 12 to as few as 10 courses. Graduate-level coursework taken as part of the Biology program cannot be applied as graduate credit to the Master of Forensic Science program, nor will it transfer as graduate level credit to any other university because it becomes part of the undergraduate degree program. Students must enroll in and complete the first class in the Master’s degree within 6 months of the conferral date of their undergraduate degree. The MFS program must be completed within 4 years with no break in enrollment of 12 months or more. Further rules and requirements for Transition programs are located in the university catalog.

Learn More



Career Outlook

Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.

Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:

  • Top Jobs in this field
  • Median Salary (USA)
  • JOB Openings (USA)
  • Environmental Scientists and Specialists
  • $78,957 avg. salary (USA)
  • 8,646 job openings (past yr.) past year
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.
Median Salary:
$78,957 annual +64% above US average
Job Openings:
8,646 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $48,524
  • Medium
    $78,957
  • High
    $133,932

Most desired skills

  1. Environmental Science
  2. Project Management
  3. Biology
  4. Environmental Laws
  5. Soil Science
  6. Geology
  7. Environmental Compliance

Top companies hiring for this role

  • State of Minnesota
  • AECOM
  • State of Florida
  • WSP Global
  • Stantec
  • Environmental Protection Agency
  • Transdev
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Food Science Technicians
  • $48,665 avg. salary (USA)
  • 2,847 job openings (past yr.) past year
Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods.
Median Salary:
$48,665 annual +1% above US average
Job Openings:
2,847 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $35,912
  • Medium
    $48,665
  • High
    $78,441

Most desired skills

  1. Food Safety And Sanitation
  2. Good Manufacturing Practices
  3. Auditing
  4. Hazard Analysis And Critical Control Points (HACCP)
  5. Food Science
  6. Food Manufacturing
  7. Food Quality Assurance And Control

Top companies hiring for this role

  • Sysco
  • Cargill
  • Tyson Foods
  • US Foods Holding
  • Country Pure Foods
  • Sovereign Agency
  • General Mills
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Biological Technicians
  • $51,438 avg. salary (USA)
  • 12,551 job openings (past yr.) past year
Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.
Median Salary:
$51,438 annual +7% above US average
Job Openings:
12,551 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $36,982
  • Medium
    $51,438
  • High
    $80,330

Most desired skills

  1. Biology
  2. Microbiology
  3. Chemistry
  4. Laboratory Experience
  5. Laboratory Equipment
  6. Standard Operating Procedure
  7. Good Manufacturing Practices

Top companies hiring for this role

  • Amentum
  • National Park Service
  • Labelbox
  • United States Fish & Wildlife Service
  • United States Department of Agriculture
  • Agricultural Research Service
  • Western Ecosystems Technology
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Forest and Conservation Technicians
  • $51,792 avg. salary (USA)
  • 4,752 job openings (past yr.) past year
Provide technical assistance regarding the conservation of soil, water, forests, or related natural resources. May compile data pertaining to size, content, condition, and other characteristics of forest tracts under the direction of foresters, or train and lead forest workers in forest propagation and fire prevention and suppression. May assist conservation scientists in managing, improving, and protecting rangelands and wildlife habitats.
Median Salary:
$51,792 annual +7% above US average
Job Openings:
4,752 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $34,350
  • Medium
    $51,792
  • High
    $79,405

Most desired skills

  1. Forestry
  2. Agriculture
  3. Rangeland Management
  4. Soil Science
  5. Wildlife Management
  6. Wildfire Suppression
  7. Forest Engineering

Top companies hiring for this role

  • United States Forest Service
  • United States Department of the Interior
  • Sierra Pacific Industries
  • U.S.D.A Forest Service
  • Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania
  • Natural Resources Conservation Service
  • State of Ohio
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Medical Assistants
  • $41,886 avg. salary (USA)
  • 126,182 job openings (past yr.) past year
Perform administrative and certain clinical duties under the direction of a physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes. Clinical duties may include taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood, and administering medications as directed by physician.
Median Salary:
$41,886 annual -12% below US average
Job Openings:
126,182 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $33,299
  • Medium
    $41,886
  • High
    $56,808

Most desired skills

  1. Medical Assistance
  2. Vital Signs
  3. Medical Records
  4. Electronic Medical Record
  5. Phlebotomy
  6. Patient Preparation
  7. Intravenous Therapy

Top companies hiring for this role

  • UnitedHealth Group
  • Mercy Health
  • Geisinger Health System
  • Optum
  • United States Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Providence
  • Corewell Health
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Medical Secretaries
  • $40,643 avg. salary (USA)
  • 98,876 job openings (past yr.) past year
Perform secretarial duties using specific knowledge of medical terminology and hospital, clinic, or laboratory procedures. Duties may include scheduling appointments, billing patients, and compiling and recording medical charts, reports, and correspondence.
Median Salary:
$40,643 annual -15% below US average
Job Openings:
98,876 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $31,907
  • Medium
    $40,643
  • High
    $58,345

Most desired skills

  1. Medical Terminology
  2. Medical Records
  3. Setting Appointments
  4. Electronic Medical Record
  5. Billing
  6. Copayment Collection And Processing
  7. Medical Office Procedures

Top companies hiring for this role

  • CSL Plasma
  • HCA Healthcare
  • Trinity Health
  • Hackensack Meridian Health
  • TEKsystems
  • Mercy Health
  • CSL
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.

Program Learning Outcomes

Learn the key skills to help you excel in your field of study.

  • Discuss biological processes at all of levels of organization: molecular, cellular and microbial, organismal, population, and ecosystem.
  • Explain the importance of unifying concepts in biology, including cell theory, genetics, and evolution.
  • Describe the structure and function of Earth’s organisms, as well as their roles in the natural world.
  • Apply the scientific method in laboratory-based and field-based inquiry.
  • Demonstrate effective oral, visual, and written communication and quantitative skills, including the critical analysis of data and scientific literature.
  • Evaluate historical developments and research in biology, as well as current and contemporary research and challenges.
  • Demonstrate computer and technology literacy, including the ability to access databases within the context of course research and project development.
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Admissions

Transfer Students Welcome

More about transferring to NU.

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.

Accreditations

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The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

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Why National University?

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.

Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

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“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

Francisco R.,

Class of 2016

What makes a degree
with National University unique?

Free Tutoring Sessions

Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.

Online and In-Person

Flexibility meets quality education with our online and in-person learning options.

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Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.

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Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family. Military and Veteran Admissions.

Mentoring Network

Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.

Transfer Students Welcome

NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.

Accelerate Your Career With NU

At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.

Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.

man and woman in graduation cap and gown smiling among other graduating students

Additional Resources

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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