Biology

Areas of research strength within the departments include RNA molecular biology, molecular and cellular aspects of genetics and development, neurobiology, immunology, microbial biochemistry, plant biology, animal behavior, physiology, evolution, ecology, marine biology, and conservation biology. Many students take advantage of the numerous opportunities for undergraduate research, allowing students to interact one on one with faculty and other researchers in a laboratory or field setting. 

Study and Research Opportunities

Students may plan a program that leads to a bachelor of arts (B.A.),  or bachelor of science (B.S.) degree. The  Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department administers the B.A. major, while the Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology Department administers the B.S. major and the minor. With the guidance of faculty members, students have access to extensive departmental laboratory facilities for independent research, and fieldwork that draws on a variety of terrestrial and oceanic habitats. Hospitals and physical therapy centers, veterinary clinics and other medical enterprises in the local community provide the opportunity to pursue field projects and internships comparable to on-the-job training.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Overall band score of 6.5 or higher*, includes IELTS Indicator Exam (through fall 2022)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test or 80 on the Internet-based test, includes TOEFL iBT Home Edition (fall 2021 only)
• SAT (March 2016 or later) Writing & Language Test: 31 or higher
• SAT (prior to March 2016) Writing Exam: 560 or higher
• ACT combined English-Writing or English Language Arts portion: 24 or higher
• AP English Language and Composition, or English Literature and Composition: 3, 4, or 5
• IB Standard Level examination in English: Literature, or Language and Literature: 6 or 7
• IB Higher Level examination in English: Literature, or Language and Literature: 5, 6, or 7
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 115 (through fall 2022)

• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department degrees are designed to prepare students to go on to:

• Graduate programs
• Positions in industry, government, or NGO’s
• Medical, dental, or veterinary medicine schools.