Biology Degree

The biology program at Old Dominion University prepares students for careers as laboratory technicians, scientific company sales representatives, animal technicians, greenhouse curators, environmental consultants, and more. The program focuses on the basic program of biology or the biological sciences. Program courses include: general biology, genetics, molecular ecology, and natural history and biodiversity. Get more details below including other Virginia colleges that offer biology degrees.

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Old Dominion University

4001 Wakefield Chapel Rd, Annandale, VA

Old Dominion University (ODU) is a public research university located in Norfolk, Virginia. Designated as a "high-research-activity" university, the ODU researchers generate more than $80 million in annual funding through 400 or more research projects. Research areas of particular note include programs in bioelectrics, modeling and simulation, alternative energies, nanotechnologies, and maritime health and systems.

Considered a "Best Southeastern College" by the Princeton Review, ODU offers more than 65 bachelor's degrees, 56 master's degrees, 41 doctoral degrees and two educational specialist degrees. Distance learning is available through ODU, which offers more than 50 degree programs online, via satellite or video-streaming and CD.

Faculty at ODU have be widely recognized for their achievements, and have won more than 20 Virginia Outstanding Faculty Awards, among others.

History

Old Dominion University was founded in 1930 as the Norfolk Division of the College of William and Mary. It became an independent institution of higher education in 1962. In 1969, ODU gained university status.

Academics

The academic calendar for Old Dominion University follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters. At ODU, these are referred to as "First Semester," "Second Semester," and "Summer Semester." The Summer Semester is divided into five sessions.

Colleges and Schools

• College of Arts and Letters
• College of Business and Public Administration
• College of Education
• College of Engineering and Technology
• College of Health Sciences
• College of Sciences
• Honors College

Student Life

There are roughly 300 student clubs and organizations available for involvement at Old Dominion University. These include groups that focus on academic, professional, political, religious, social, leadership and many other interests. Students can also participate in programs for volunteer service and various hobbies. The Office of Student Activities and Leadership also organizes access to the campus radio station (WODU) and the student-run newspaper "The Mace and Crown."

On campus and off campus housing are available, and more than 4,000 students live on campus during the academic year. There are many dining options available on and off campus as well.

The ROTC is quite active on campus, and there are many active fraternities and sororities at ODU.

Traditions

The ODU school colors are blue (dark, royal blue) and silver, with white as an accent color. The school mascot is "Old Blue" the lion. The school symbol is a lion with a royal crown on its head, and the athletic teams are nicknamed the "Monarchs." Early in its history, the athletic teams for ODU were nicknamed the "Braves," but this changed once the school became independent. One school tradition is to have students touch up the blue paw prints that are painted on the grounds of the campus, representing all the places where "Old Blue" has traveled.

School spirit is strong at ODU, and on every "Spirit Friday" students and faculty are asked to wear the school colors of blue and silver or ODU apparel. The school Spirit Crew will patrol the campus and reward those who observe the tradition with a prize.

Athletics

The ODU "Monarchs" athletic teams compete in 18 intercollegiate sports at the NCAA Division I level, and the NCAA FCS level. Varsity sports at ODU include:

Men's Sports:

• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Field Hockey
• Football
• Golf
• Lacrosse
• Soccer
• Sailing
• Swimming and Diving
• Tennis
• Wrestling 

Women's Sports:

• Cross Country
• Field Hockey
• Lacrosse
• Soccer
• Swimming and Diving
• Tennis

Satellite Campuses

The Norfolk Campus is ODU's primary location. Extended campus centers for ODU are:

• Peninsula Higher Education Center
• Virginia Beach Higher Education Center
• Tri-Cities Center
• Distance Learning Partners

Community Life

ODU has many business and research programs that contribute to the local economy and community. Many ODU programs and camps are designed for community youth, and include sports and engineering camps, science fairs, robotics challenges, a child development center, music groups, a governor's school for the arts, and more.

The City of Norfolk has much to offer in terms of culture, recreation, arts and entertainment. The downtown area of the city is very easy to walk around, and is considered a desirable place to live. There are many distinct and historical neighborhoods, each with their own character. The Freemason Historic District near the Elizabeth River is characterized by tree lined, cobblestone streets. The Granby District is a popular shopping area where many of the early buildings near the Opera House have been converted into residential lofts and trendy homes. There are many more neighborhoods and areas to explore.

Students Enrolled in the Biology Program

Get more details below regarding enrollment, academics, and school demographics. Old Dominion University has offered the following degree levels for students:

• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree

Students by Academic Level (2019)

Students by Gender (2019)

Students by Race (2019)

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

Career Options for Graduates

Natural Sciences Managers

Description

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.

Career Outlook & Projections ()

According to the BLS, natural sciences managers employment is expected to grow at a rate of 3.3% from 2014 to 2024

Salary & Wages

• Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metropolitan Division
  • Total Employment: 2
  • Average Hourly Rate: $65.09
  • Average Annual Salary: $135390

Molecular and Cellular Biologists

Description

Research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.

Source: Job descriptions, estimated salary and wages, and projected job growth are taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).