Study Biological and Environmental Sciences | Samford University

At Samford University, dive into a range of scientific fields—from the Amazon rainforest’s ecology to the marvels of the human body—and develop your passions through hands-on learning.

Department

Biological & Environmental Sciences

From the Amazon rainforest to the human body, explore the natural world and discover new ways to pursue your interests.

Explore the natural world through the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. Study the ecology of the Amazon rainforest, the wildlife of East Africa or marine life along the Alabama coast. Discover how the human body works, examine cells and molecules, or learn about the medicinal uses of plants.

You can also explore environmental stewardship, study field zoology or experience new cultures through Samford's London Center. With a wide range of courses and hands-on learning opportunities, you can follow your interests and prepare for your future.

Our students pursue careers in medicine, teaching, research, dentistry, field biology, optometry, marine biology, veterinary medicine, environmental science and other health-related fields.

I learned a lot about the art of education from my time spent in Samford University's biology department. I studied my professor's delivery of their material and demeanor in the classroom just as much as I studied the curriculum they taught. —Allan Phipps, Albert Einstein Distinguished Fellow Educator 2012, 2010 Broward County (Fla.) Teacher of the Year, 2007 SeaWorld/Busch Gardens/Fujifilm National Environmental Educator of the Year

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Majors

Biology

Biology majors explore the natural world and prepare for careers in research, health care, science writing and related fields. Through small classes, hands-on research and faculty mentoring, students study life at every level. Topics range from cells and genetics to human anatomy, physiology and ecosystems.

Learn More

Environmental Science

Environmental science majors learn to identify and address threats to ecosystems, natural resources and human health. Students combine knowledge from several fields to understand environmental challenges and develop solutions. Graduates are prepared to work with businesses, government agencies, communities and other organizations to protect the environment and improve quality of life.
Learn More

Marine Science

Marine science majors prepare for careers studying and protecting marine environments. Students gain hands-on experience through field studies, laboratory research and aquaculture. The program also includes a summer experience at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) on the Alabama coast.
Learn More

Neuroscience

Neuroscience majors explore how the brain shapes thoughts, emotions and behavior. Students study how nerve cells communicate through courses in biology, chemistry and physics. They also examine the connection between the brain and behavior through psychology, psychiatry and neurology.

The program builds a strong foundation in behavioral science, mathematics, statistics and computer science.
Learn More

Prehealth Program

The prehealth program prepares students for careers in medicine, dentistry, optometry and veterinary medicine. Through personal mentoring, MCAT preparation courses and connections with professional alumni, students gain support as they prepare for professional school and careers in health care.
Learn More

Undergraduate Minors

Bioinformatics

For Biology or Biochemistry Majors

Bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, mathematics and information technology. Students use computer-based tools to study biological data and make discoveries in biology, medicine and pharmacology.
Three versions of the minor are available. Biology and biochemistry majors should follow the curriculum linked below. Computer science majors and students in other fields should select the appropriate option listed in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science.
View Curriculum

Biology

The Biology minor helps students explore the natural world and build skills useful in research, health care, science writing and related fields. Small classes, research opportunities and faculty mentoring allow students to study topics ranging from cells and genetics to human anatomy and ecosystems.
View Curriculum

Marine Science

The Marine Science minor offers opportunities for hands-on study and research in marine zoology, botany and ecology. Students explore marine plants, animals and ecosystems.
View Curriculum

Neuroscience

The Neuroscience minor explores how the brain works and how it affects thoughts and behavior. Students study topics such as brain function, artificial intelligence and the causes and treatments of neurological disorders.

This growing field connects with many areas of study, including biology, psychology, biomedical engineering, criminal justice, philosophy, public health, education, kinesiology, business and economics.
Learn More

Graduate Programs

Environmental Management (MSEM)

Samford's fully online Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM) prepares students to address environmental challenges facing businesses, nonprofits, governments and communities. The 36-credit-hour program welcomes students from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds.

Designed for working professionals, the flexible program can be completed in as little as one year. You can study from anywhere with an internet connection while balancing work, family and other commitments.

Online students also have access to Samford faculty, academic advisers, career development services and library resources.
Learn More

Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management

The fully online, 12-credit-hour Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management helps students address environmental challenges facing businesses, nonprofits, governments and individuals.

Students learn to apply knowledge and methods from several fields to solve environmental problems without pursuing a full graduate degree.
Learn More

Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

The fully online, 12-credit-hour Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) helps students develop skills in collecting, analyzing, mapping and presenting geographic data. Students learn to use GIS tools to study environmental issues and support informed decisions.
Learn More

Biological & Environmental Sciences Scholarships

Martha Myers Medical Missions Scholarship

The Martha Myers medical missions scholarship is awarded to a pre-medical/dental student that expresses an interest in participating in or supporting medical missions.