A diagram in Biology lab

Department of Biology

Welcome to the study of life! From molecules to biosphere, biologists explore how it all works. Our department provides strong foundation and community support for your career and personal success.

What is Biology?

If you're excited to discover and understand how living things work, then you have the mind of a biologist ready to transform the world. Biology is where curiosity meets purpose – where you'll ask profound questions, design innovative experiments and uncover solutions that heal, protect and advance humanity. From molecular discoveries that lead to life-saving treatments to environmental research that safeguards our planet's future, your biological sciences education becomes the foundation for careers that truly matter. 

While 60% of our majors pursue medical careers and another 20% enter dental or veterinary fields, biology opens doors to countless paths where your passion for life becomes your professional power. Your journey of scientific discovery starts here, where every question you ask has the potential to change lives.

Explore Your Future

Biology BA
Get a well-rounded education with flexibility to explore your interests. Mix biology with languages, humanities and electives that fit YOU. Perfect for future teachers, professionals or grad school. 121 hours, endless possibilities!
Biology BS
Choose from Molecular, Cellular, Developmental; Biomedical; or Ecology tracks. Rigorous coursework in biology, physics and calculus builds strong foundations for careers, grad school or med school. High GPA proves you're ready for anything!
Biology MS
Full or part-time study with thesis (research-focused) or non-thesis options. Tailored programs for any goal. Bachelor's in biology preferred, but other science majors welcome. Your future starts here!
Biology PhD
Join MCD or EEB divisions. Enter with bachelor's or master's degree. Financial support available: teaching/research assistantships plus fellowships with stipends, tuition and health coverage!

Why study Biology?

68%

of biology professionals rank in top 42% of all careers for happiness

$3.2T

in economic impact supporting 8 million jobs across America

15%

Job growth as biology fields outpace national averages since 2019

Career Prospects

Where Your Passion for Life Becomes Your Professional Purpose

Unlock the extraordinary potential within you through biology education that transforms curiosity into careers that heal, discover and protect. Your journey into the life sciences opens doors to meaningful work that addresses humanity's greatest challenges while building a rewarding, impactful future.

Healthcare and Medicine Excellence

Salary Range: $200,000-$400,000+
Transform lives through the art and science of healing. Your biology foundation becomes the pathway to prestigious medical careers where every day brings opportunities to save lives and advance human health.

Career Opportunities:

  • Physician and Medical Specialist
  • Dentist and Oral Health Expert
  • Veterinarian and Animal Care Leader
  • Physician Assistant providing direct care
  • Pharmacist advancing drug therapy
  • Physical Therapist restoring mobility
  • Medical Researcher discovering cures

Research and Discovery Innovation

Salary Range: $75,000-$200,000+
Pioneer the frontiers of scientific knowledge while solving problems that matter. Your research becomes the foundation for breakthrough discoveries that reshape our understanding of life itself.

Career Opportunities:

  • Medical Scientist developing treatments
  • Biochemist unlocking molecular secrets
  • Research Laboratory Director
  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Biotech Product Development Manager
  • Academic Professor and Researcher
  • Pharmaceutical Research Scientist

Environmental and Conservation Leadership

Salary Range: $52,000-$120,000+
Become a guardian of our planet's future. Your expertise in biological systems positions you to address climate change, protect biodiversity and ensure a sustainable world for generations to come.

Career Opportunities:

  • Environmental Scientist and Consultant
  • Conservation Biologist protecting species
  • Climate Change Research Specialist
  • Wildlife Biologist and Park Ranger
  • Environmental Policy Analyst
  • Sustainability Program Manager
  • Marine Biologist and Ocean Conservationist

Biotechnology and Industry Innovation

Salary Range: $65,000-$300,000+
Shape the future through cutting-edge technology that merges biology with innovation. Your scientific training becomes the catalyst for developing solutions that revolutionize medicine, agriculture and industry.

Career Opportunities:

  • Biotechnology Research Scientist
  • Biomedical Data Scientist
  • Genetic Counselor guiding families
  • Quality Control Analyst ensuring safety
  • Biotech Consultant driving strategy
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Biomanufacturing Process Engineer

Education and Science Communication

Salary Range: $45,000-$95,000+
Inspire the next generation while sharing your passion for discovery. Your expertise becomes the foundation for educating future scientists and communicating the wonder of biology to communities.

Career Opportunities:

  • High School Biology Teacher
  • College Professor and Educator
  • Museum Curator and Program Director
  • Science Writer and Journalist
  • Public Health Educator
  • Science Policy Advisor
  • Educational Content Developer

Your Journey to Impact Begins Now

Every path in biology connects your fascination with life to careers that create meaningful change. Whether you're called to heal, discover, protect or educate, your biological sciences education provides the knowledge, skills and opportunities to transform your passion into a profession that truly matters.

background image

Transform Your Curiosity Into Life-Changing Careers

Ready to join the 60% of our biology majors on the path to medical school? Or explore groundbreaking research that reshapes our understanding of life? Your journey into the $3.2 trillion life sciences economy starts with one decision. Discover, heal, protect — your future in biology awaits.

Contact the Department

Phone

Location

Life Sciences Building: Room 139