Bachelor of Science in Biology

Catalog Year 2025-2026

Based on VCCS Curriculum for Associate Transfer Degree Plan in Biology

Transfer Guidance

Guaranteed Admission Agreement Requirements

• By completing a transferable associate degree with a 2.8 GPA, students meet the criteria for guaranteed admission into Radford University.

• Earn a transferable associate degree

• Earn a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA

• Be in good standing at the current institution

• Please visit the TransferVirginia.org portal to explore different majors (Transfer Tools) and Transfer Guides that outline course requirements for specific majors.

Important Links & Dates

• University Transfer Center: https://admissions.radford.edu

• Admission Application: By March 1 for Priority Fall Admission and November 1 for Priority Spring Admission at https://www.radford.edu/admissions/apply/index.html

• Financial Aid: https://www.radford.edu/fin-aid

• FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid: Priority deadline is March 1; apply online at https://studentaid.gov/

What Should I Consider When Selecting Courses?

• Select courses that allow room in your schedule for Biology-specific electives at Radford University.

• Create a schedule for all required courses, pay attention to prerequisites and when courses are offered, complete your first math and English courses in your first year. For help, see Transfer Steps and Resource Center at www.TransferVirginia.org

• Connect with an advisor at your community college and Radford University within your first year. College Connect available in your account at www.TransferVirginia.org

Is This Degree Right For Me?

• Developing marketable skills for any job opportunity (e.g., analytical skills, collaboration).

• Being successful in graduate school (MS, PhD) or professional school (DO, MD, DDS, PA).

• Conducting authentic research in the classroom or with a faculty member.

• Developing a science identity as you practice being a scientist.

• Modern technology, instrumentation, field equipment, and human/non-human models that allow you to collect your own data or learn using authentic examples.

• Advising on careers and progress through the major by a faculty member in your area of interest.

• A close network of peers who can support you as you progress through your program.

What Is The Impact On My Degree Of Work I Have Already Completed?

• Associate Transfer Degree Completion: The completion of the transfer-oriented degree program will satisfy the REAL Curriculum (lower division/general education) requirements. Students will need to complete all other University, college, and departmental requirements in order to obtain the baccalaureate degree from RU.

• Dual Enrollment – Completion of Associate Degree in HS: Students completing the associate degree in high school should apply using the freshman application. If admitted, the student will receive the benefits associated with the transferable associate degree (as noted prior).

• Credit for Prior Learning: AP, IB, and CLEP will be evaluated for credits (based on receipt and evaluation of scores). See https://catalog.radford.edu/content.php?catoid=55&navoid=2617

• Catalog Year: Students will be subject to the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment at RU unless otherwise requested.

Is This College Right For Me?

• Main campus is located in the city of Radford and our Radford University Carilion campus is located in Roanoke. RU is well-known for strong faculty/student bonds, vibrant student life and a commitment to student support.

• Situated in the stunning landscape of southwest Virginia, there are plenty of nearby opportunities to explore the outdoors.

• With 70+ bachelor's degree programs across a variety of disciplines, the classes at Radford are hands-on and designed to help you prepare for your chosen career path.

• Transfer students have the option to live on-campus or off-campus within the local area.

• Over 80% of students receive some form of financial aid.

• 16 Division I teams and 300+ student organizations.

• Learn more about our university at www.TransferVirginia.org

Did You Know That…

• Completing your Associate transfer degree post-high school satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor's degree?

• Exceeding 3 years or 90 credits at your community college means you may have exhausted your financial aid at that college and have limited your future financial aid at Radford University?

What Can I Do With This Degree?

• Explore possible careers, salaries, and job outlook at www.TransferVirginia.org

Program Successes & Highlights

• 18 full-time faculty for 250-280 students in Biology Department majors.

• 90% of our students present their work at a symposium or conference where networking with other scientists is important.

• 50% of our majors join a faculty member's research program.

• 20% of our undergraduate students are authors on a publication or successful grant that funds their research.

What Are My Chances For Getting Accepted?

• The Department of Biology does not have an application of entry into our majors.

• Of students who apply to the university, usually about 65% of transfer applications are accepted to Radford University and about 80% of the entering transfer class comes from the Virginia Community College System.

• Learn more about applying at www.TransferVirginia.org

Other Than Classes, Are There Other Program Requirements?

• Although there are no other program requirements, students have an opportunity to:

• Engage with many student-led clubs and organizations.

• Gain authentic experiences that prepare them for their future post-Radford.