Searching for the best affordable colleges for a biology, biochemistry or zoology degree as an undergraduate student can reveal several excellent schools. And as the need grows for more scientifically-minded professionals in a variety of positions, students can find inexpensive options that are backed by experienced faculty. But with so many options available, it can be hard for a student and their family to know how to begin the search process.
This ranking will help with the confusion. Along with access to up-to-date information on tuition rates, students will find that this ranking goes over the general requirements of a degree, any co-curricular or extracurricular activities that can be helpful for them in the field and discuss any academic awards or recognition that a school has. Coupled with a student’s own research into what they wish to accomplish with a degree, this ranking can help narrow down choices to a few select schools that meet the student’s needs.
Methodology
This ranking relied heavily on research. Our staff consulted the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator database, a website that provides free and public information on current academic degrees from the country’s colleges and universities. A search for bachelor’s degrees in the areas of biology, biochemistry, and zoology provided us with a long list of schools. We narrowed our list down by choosing schools that have a maximum tuition of $15,000.
While various factors were considered, two were assigned points and given weight. The first is the total undergraduate tuition for the academic year, which we gathered from NCES. Since tuition can sometimes rise to be more than what a full-time professional makes in a year, we kept the list to only schools with low-cost rates.
Tuition for one year – based on 15 hours per semester:
Under $7,500 – 3 Points
$7,500 – $15,000 – 2 Points
$15,001 and above – 1 Point
The second factor was the student/faculty ratio as reported by NCES. Students reported feeling more engaged in their coursework and felt more supported in class sizes, so a lot of weight was given to the school’s listed class size. Class size also seems to have a direct correlation to graduation rates. Schools that offer smaller class sizes have a higher graduation rate among undergraduate students.
Student to faculty ratio:
10:1 or less – 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1 – 2 Points
Greater than 15:1 – 1 Point
The final 15 schools, shown below, were chosen based on the total amount of points that were awarded through the research process.
Ranking 15 Best Affordable Biology, Biochemistry, Zoology Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2019
15. Central Methodist University
Fayette, Missouri
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Central Methodist University offers an affordable biology degree that will prepare students for graduate work or the professional field right after graduation. Students can choose from a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in the field. It’s a 120-credit hour program that requires practical experience as well as a capstone internship or research project. This low-cost biology degree program comes with three tracks:
- pre-health sciences
- molecular biology
- wildlife ecology and conservation
Students will find that their time in the program will be split between lectures, hands-on laboratory experience and practical experience for a well-rounded degree. With very low tuition rates and small class sizes, each student will be prepared to tackle their chosen career path after completing this degree.
Tuition
In-State: $5,760
Out-of-State: $5,760
Student/Faculty Ratio: 17:1
14. Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The biology bachelor’s degree that is offered by Western Carolina University is a great option for students who wish to work as professionals in the field. Students are supported by a faculty that is continuously doing research in the field and can choose from a low-cost Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Science in Education. The affordable biology program comes with four concentrations:
- general biology
- molecular biology
- pre-health professional
- ecology and evolutionary biology
A separate minor in biology is also available. Courses range from animal behavior to ecological conservation. This economical biology degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and can be completed in four years of full-time study. Additionally, the program offers students the chance to complete experiential opportunities, such as:
- research projects
- study abroad programs
- even internships
Tuition
In-State: $3,926
Out-of-State: $7,926
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
13. The University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Pembroke, North Carolina
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke is one of the best affordable universities for a biology or zoology degree. This school offers a Bachelor of Science in Biology program that has five tracks:
- general biology
- botany
- zoology
- molecular biology
- environmental biology
This inexpensive biology degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework as well as a variety of choices from a list of directed electives. It’s a great choice for any student interested in specializing at the undergraduate level. Students will find that this school has low tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students and also features small class sizes. Courses range from General Chemistry to Cell biology.
Tuition
In-State: $3,418
Out-of-State: $7,418
Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1
12. Great Basin College
Elko, Nevada
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The economical biology degree at Great Basin College was designed to focus students on the biology of Nevada. This affordable 120-credit hour biology program was designed as a general degree. It will help students meet the criteria for entry-level positions after graduation. It will work well on an application for graduate study. Students also have access to the Biology Student Group. This is a cohort program that will make students who are accepted into the program eligible for paid employment on campus. It will give them the opportunity to participate in co-curricular activities that are done nationwide. It is important to note that this is a great school for students interested in pre-health services, as this program will open up opportunities for medical school.
Tuition
In-State: $3,128
Out-of-State: $9,876
Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1
11. St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, Florida
Total Points: 4
Program Website
St. Petersburg College offers a high-value biology degree that is a great gateway to health sciences specialty degrees, including medical or veterinary school. Concentrations are available in:
- animal sciences
- biomedical sciences
- cell and molecular biotechnology,
- ecology and organismal biology
This affordable biology degree program also lets students use much of the 120-credit hours required for graduation to focus on other interests, such as:
- zoology
- ecology
- plant biology
This is also considered a transfer program. Students with an associate’s degree in biology are eligible to complete this low-cost Bachelor of Science in Biology program. Courses include:
- Biology
- Genetics
- Comparative Physiology.
Tuition
In-State: $2,682
Out-of-State: $9,286
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
10. Delta State University
Cleveland, Mississippi
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The best-value biology degree at Delta State University is a great choice for students interested in working in the field right after graduation or pursuing graduate work. The low cost BS in Biology has three concentrations:
- general biology
- premedical science
- biology education
The 120-credit hour biology degree program has different requirements for each concentration. However, all will provide students with a well-rounded degree at graduation. Tuition remains the same for both in-state and out-of-state students, making it a cost-effective option for most students. Additionally, with a renowned staff and small class sizes, students will receive constant support while earning their degree.
Tuition
In-State: $7,246
Out-of-State: $7,246
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
9. Minot State University
Minot, North Dakota
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Minot State University is one of the most affordable colleges for biology, biochemistry, and zoology degrees. It’s perfect for students who are interested in moving into the health sciences field after graduation. It also provides solid preparation for those who want to pursue a graduate degree. The low cost Bachelor of Science in Biology is a general degree that focuses students. It provides them with the opportunity to pursue their personal interests in the field. Students will also be able to choose from a research or non-research track. This help them develop skills they they need in their profession. Tuition rates are the same for both in-state and out-of-state students. Class sizes are kept to less than 15 students per course.
Tuition
In-State: $7,064
Out-of-State: $7,064
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
8. Mississippi University for Women
Columbus, Mississippi
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable undergraduate biology degree program at the Mississippi University for Women is a great choice for students who wish to work in the science or education field. The BS in Biology program has the option to earn a BS in Biology with Teacher Certification, for students who wish to become educators. This is a low-cost 124-credit hour biology degree program that has no internship requirements. Rather, it focuses on research. Students will find that the curriculum has a great deal of flexibility, enabling them to choose courses that interest them from a directed electives list. This program will prepare students for the workforce after graduation. They can also move seamlessly into graduate work, making it a great choice for any student.
Tuition
In-State: $6,940
Out-of-State: $6,940
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
7. Logan University
Chesterfield, Missouri
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Logan University offers a top-value affordable biology degree that was designed for students who are interested in a low-cost health sciences degree. It’s available as an on-campus degree or as an inexpensive online biology degree. The BS in Human Biology offers students the chance to complete the program as a traditional or transfer student, making it a great choice for students who already have some college credits and just need to finish this degree. This biology degree program was built to prepare students for graduate and specialist study. It is comprehensive in nature, enabling students to complete their program and move into the graduate study with a strong foundation in the sciences. Courses include:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Physics.
Tuition
In-State: $6,800
Out-of-State: $6,800
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
6. Mayville State University
Mayville, North Dakota
Total Points: 5
Program Website
One of the most affordable colleges for a biology, biochemistry, or zoology degree is Mayville State University. It offers a 120-credit hour program designed to be as flexible as possible. Students who enter this inexpensive biology degree program have interests in medicine, zoology, pharmacy, and more. The Bachelor of Science program offers two specializations:
- health careers
- wildlife careers
Both require labs as par for the course of the curriculum and are taught byfaculty who are either still actively working in the field or who have experience in the subjects they teach. This program low tuition rates and its small class sizes. It’s a great choice for students who want an inexpensive and familial atmosphere while earning their degree.
Tuition
In-State: $6,666
Out-of-State: $9,399
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
5. Mississippi Valley State University
Itta Bena, Mississippi
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Mississippi State University is an accredited affordable university for biology degrees. This school offers a 120-credit hour BS of Biology. It’s a good choice for students who wish to work in the field after graduation or enter a specialist program. Students will find that this is a comprehensive generalist degree. No specializations are offered. Instead, the program touches on all of the aspects of the field, enabling students to understand how it all works together. Courses range from Zoology to Anatomy. The program gives students a wide range of courses to consider, making this a great foundational degree for further study.
Tuition
In-State: $6,550
Out-of-State: $6,550
Student/Faculty Ratio: 15:1
4. Central State University
Wilberforce, Ohio
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable biology degree at Central State University focuses on the complexity of the natural environment. The Bachelor of Science in Biology was designed to fulfill the requirements for students interested in moving into medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine It is also a great choice for students who are interested in graduate work in the environmental sciences. Students at this inexpensive school will complete directed research and an internship . Co-curricular activities include:
- participation in national conferences for the Ohio Academy of Sciences
- the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students
- the annual Undergraduate Research Symposia in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Tuition
In-State: $6,346
Out-of-State: $8,346
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
3. Navajo Technical University
Crownpoint, New Mexico
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Navajo Technical University, one of the most affordable colleges for biology degrees, is an excellent place for students interested in an undergraduate degree in general biology. The low-cost BS in General Biology was designed to educate students on the various aspects and process of the biological sciences. It provides an added perspective with the role that chemistry, physics and mathematics play in the field. This is a best-value 130-credit hour biology degree program that is extremely affordable to students who live both in-state and out-of-state. With small class sizes and respected faculty, students are in great hands when it comes to completing their education.
Tuition
In-State: $4,070
Out-of-State: $4,070
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
2. Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable degree in biology at Elizabeth City State University is one of the most valuable to students who are interested in the field. The Bachelor of Science program offers a variety of concentrations, including:
- general biology
- molecular biology/biotechnology
- comprehensive science licensure
This top-value 125-credit hour biology degree program, designed to be completed in four years, is a challenging and rewarding program. Students will be able to complete a variety of courses that meet their interests. With small class sizes, they will be able to get the individualized attention that they need. This degree also offers inexpensive tuition for in-state and out-of-state students, making it an excellent choice for any student interested in the field.
Tuition
In-State: $3,194
Out-of-State: $7,194
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
1. Dickinson State University
Dickinson, North Dakota
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Dickinson State University is ranked as our best affordable college for a biology, biochemistry, or zoology degree. This school offers a low-cost BS in Biology with options in:
- organismal biology
- cellular and molecular biology
- pre-health sciences
Students will be able to complete this inexpensive 120-credit biology degree program in four years with full-time study. The program was designed to prepare students for graduate and specialist education work. Students are also prepared to work in the field straight after graduation. Students will enjoy class sizes that rarely surpass 10 students per course.
Tuition
In-State: $6,768
Out-of-State: $9,546
Student/Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options For a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, and Zoology?
The biology, biochemistry, and zoology degrees have several things in common, meaning there are a lot of career options that cross-pollinate between all three fields. However, there are some careers that are best suited for students who choose one subject over another. Below are careers that can be pursued with each field:
Biology:
- Secondary School Teacher
- Scientific Laboratory Technician
- Health Promotion Scientist
- Soil Scientist
- Higher Education Lecturer
- Cardiac Services Healthcare Scientist
- Microbiologist
- Program Director of a Health Services Nonprofit Organization
- Dentist
- Veterinary Nurse
- Technology Laboratory Technician
- Zoologist
Biochemistry:
- Biomedical Scientist
- Medicinal Chemist
- Forensic Scientist
- Analytical Chemist
- Scientific Laboratory Technician
- Pharmacologist
- Clinical Research Associate
- Nanotechnologist
- Clinical Biochemistry Healthcare Scientist
- Medical Doctor
Zoology:
- Ecologist
- Zoologist
- Nature Conservation Officer
- Marine Scientist
- Veterinary Nurse
- Field Trials Officer
- Toxicologist
- Life Sciences Research Scientist
- Veterinarian
- Environmental Consultant
- Zookeeper
- Animal Physiotherapist
Many of these careers will require education beyond the undergraduate level, Many require a graduate degree for the positions. Health sciences positions also tend to require a specialist or a graduate degree, so students are encouraged to research the careers and their requirements to chart the correct course for that career.
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
The current salary range for a degree in biology is currently between $54,870 and $67,360. However, students who go on to complete graduate or specialist degrees could earn up to $150,000. The actual salary will depend on the career path itself, so students are encouraged to do more research on how much they can reasonably expect to earn with a degree in biology.
The current salary range for a professional with a degree in biochemistry is between $45,730 and $68,760. It is possible to make over $100,000 in the field. The states with the highest demand for professionals with this degree are currently Pennsylvania and Texas. This is due to the engineering and biology industries booming in both states.
The current average salary for a degree in zoology is $74,000, according to PayScale. With a specialist degree, professionals can earn as much as $277,000. This field is in high demand both in the United States and around the world, but positions are competitive, so these professionals may want to look into additional training.
Related Resource: What is Biostatistics?
What are the Various Disciplines of Biology, Biochemistry, and Zoology?
It is important to know that biology, biochemistry and zoology are all considered to be life sciences. This refers to the branch of science that works with life in general, including humans, animals, and plants. While each of these fields has their own main disciplines, at the bachelor’s level, students will take on the same disciplines, which include:
- biology
- chemistry
- biochemistry
- zoology
- histology
- neuroscience
- pharmacology
- physics
- toxicology
At the bachelor’s level, students will take humanities and liberal arts courses as part of their general education requirements, but once they begin working specifically on their major, these are the disciplines that they will work with.
There are simply too many concentrations or specializations, to list here, but many do exist. Science requires expertise in one aspect of a field as all three of these encompass too much knowledge for one professional to learn in their lifetime. Students should seek out more information on their major’s sub-disciplines. Many schools will have them listed on the program website.
Science continues to have a major impact on the quality of life here in the United States. The field of health services is making strides to provide longer, healthier lifespans for both humans and animals. Students will find that attending one of the best affordable colleges for biology, biochemistry, and zoology degrees will help them find a good career in this rewarding field.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the 15 Best Affordable Colleges for Biology, Biochemistry, and Zoology Degrees (Bachelor’s).
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