Thinking like a scientist starts here. St. Ambrose University’s biology programs (BA, BS and BS in Biomedical Laboratory Science) combine hands-on labs, fieldwork and faculty mentoring to prepare students for healthcare, research, conservation and other life-science careers.
Who can apply
- First-year (freshman) applicants who have finished high school or have a GED.
- Transfer students with college credits (SAU allows transferring credits up to a program limit; check transfer rules).
- International students applicants living outside the U.S. must meet SAU’s international documentation and English proficiency requirements.
Admission requirements (quick)
| Applicant type | Key requirements |
|---|---|
| Domestic first-year | Graduate from an accredited high school (or GED); minimum cumulative unweighted GPA 2.5; official high school transcript. |
| International undergraduate | Official secondary transcripts; minimum 2.5 CGPA (4.0 scale) or equivalent; proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 79 or IELTS 6.0 minimum); passport copy and supporting docs. |
| Transfer | Review transfer-credit rules (some credit can be transferred follow SAU transfer policy page). |
Deadlines / When to apply
St. Ambrose generally operates with rolling admissions for many undergraduate programs — apply early for best chance at preferred classes, housing and scholarships. Some commonly referenced regular application windows (example): Fall semester regular date commonly shown as July 15; Winter/January term around November 15 but exact cutoffs or document deadlines may vary by applicant type (domestic/international). Always confirm on SAU Admissions or the program page before you submit.
Tip: International applicants often have earlier document deadlines (allow time for transcript evaluations and visa processing).
What the program offers
- Multiple program tracks: BA in Biology, BS in Biology, and BS in Biomedical Laboratory Science so you can focus on health professions, research, conservation or clinical lab careers.
- Hands-on labs: Uncommon undergraduate opportunities such as cadaver-based anatomy labs and early fieldwork at Nahant Marsh (urban wetland)
- Real-world experience & internships: Strong emphasis on internships, research and field experiences tied to industry expectations.
- Faculty mentoring & student clubs: Small major cohorts, Biology Club and Beta Beta Beta honor society — close faculty support for grad-school and professional school pathways.
Careers & outcomes
Graduates go into healthcare (pre-med, physician assistant tracks, allied health), research, environmental and conservation agencies, clinical laboratory work, or continue to graduate and professional school.
Quick facts (table)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Programs | BA Biology; BS Biology; BS Biomedical Laboratory Science. |
| Typical GPA requirement | 2.5 minimum (domestic & international equivalency noted). |
| English tests (intl) | TOEFL ≥ 79 or IELTS ≥ 6.0 (minimum). |
| Application style | SAU application or Common App; rolling admissions for many program |
| Contact | SAU Admissions — admit@sau.edu (see site for phone & next steps). |