Chair: Professor Matthew Rand

Biology offers courses that emphasize both the diversity and unity of life. This emphasis is coupled with an examination of the basic processes of biology, including the mechanisms of heredity, regulation, development and evolution. Our majors consider biology from points of reference that reflect life's different levels of organization, from biochemical and molecular, through cellular and organismic, to population and ecosystem levels.

Can I major in it? Yes, a major is offered.

Topics explored: Biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, genetics, physiology, development, behavior, evolution, and ecological interactions at the population and community levels.

How to get started: First-year students should take both introductory courses, BIOL 125: Genes, Evolution, and Development and BIOL 126: Energy Flow in Biological Systems, in their first year. The two courses can be taken in any order. Students should refer to the overview of courses page for introductory course offering options. Advanced placement into BIOL 126 is offered under the conditions outlined on the aids to registration page.

You can check the Courses page and the Majors page for more information.