Overview

If you have a passion for understanding how cells and living organisms function and enjoy scientific experimentation and field or laboratory studies, then you should consider majoring in biology. Biology is the study of living organisms (bacteria, algae, protozoans, fungi, plants, and animals). It is a large discipline that encompasses molecules and cells, organs and organ systems, organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems. Biologists study cell and molecular biology, genetics and evolution, organismal biology, systematics and ecology, and behavior.

The Department of Biological Sciences offers bachelor's and master's degrees in Biological Sciences. When students complete a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, they are prepared for exciting careers in the sciences and eligible for graduate study in master or doctoral programs or health-related fields (e.g., chiropractors, clinical laboratory scientists, dentists, nurses, optometrists, pharmacists, physical therapists, physicians, and veterinarians). Visit our Careers in Biological Sciences web page to explore the possibilities.

The department offers a broad spectrum of courses, most of which include investigative laboratories that appeal to a wide diversity of students. Introductory biology classes for majors typically have 32 or fewer students, with advanced courses typically having fewer than 24. Many of the classrooms in the Life Sciences building are equipped with the latest teaching and learning technology. Additional information on course offerings can be found at the department's website.

The Department of Biological Sciences has an outstanding and accessible faculty comprised largely of PhDs with areas of expertise including: ornithology, plant physiology, horticulture, comparative physiology, microbiology, fisheries biology, genetics, behavior, parasitology, science education, pharmacology, mycology, anatomy, neurobiology, aquatic ecology, phycology, plant ecology, plant systematics, developmental biology, cell biology, lichenology, and wildlife biology.

Biological Sciences majors are encouraged to complete an undergraduate research experience and are given a unique opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors on experimental research projects. Students have access to a variety of field and laboratory equipment including a DNA sequencer, electrophoresis equipment, gas chromatograph, the biotechnology center and a modern computer laboratory and are able to gain hands-on experience using a wide variety of advanced scientific equipment. A detailed list of faculty research interests can be found on the departmental website.

Degree: BIO

Resources

- Degree Plan
- Program Information in EIU Catalog

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