BS MAJOR or MINOR
What You’ll Study
We believe that the best biologists have followed a program of study that provides a broad fundamental understanding of all areas of the life sciences as well as chemistry, physics, and mathematics. This approach reinforces in students the knowledge, skills, and habits of thought that characterize the biologically trained mind. Your program will begin with core courses, followed by courses in three areas:
- Cellular and Subcellular Biology
- Botany
- Zoology
Because we require all majors to take at least one course in each area, you’ll emerge with a well-rounded knowledge that translates into the professional or graduate school environment.
Dynamic Landscapes as Labs
Not only will you have access to genetics, microbiology, and microscopy labs, you’ll test your theories and think creatively in the best lab on Earth — the farm, forest, river, greenhouses, and garden right here on our 1,100 acre campus. Unfettered access to plants, animals, and microbes provides rich opportunities for independent research. You’ll join the ranks of hundreds of alumni who’ve conducted research projects with real-world implications, and then join them along your own successful path.
Your Next Step
Many of our biology students go on to pursue meaningful careers and graduate programs in areas including research, education, and healthcare. The close relationships you’ll develop with faculty give you a leg up when you’re applying to graduate school or a job.
I didn’t have any classes or labs taught by teaching assistants and the class size was small enough that I got regular practice and feedback on my writing and public speaking. My experience with undergraduate research played a huge role in the professional path I took after college. The work program is also highly valuable in that I learned to manage my time and work hard for a full day each day – juggling classes and work crew time.
Justin Conley, '04, Environmental Studies/Biology