Majors in the Biological Sciences
Biology
Biology is the study of the living world around us. It explores the structure and function of living organisms including animals, plants, bacteria and viruses. Through one-on-one interaction with our faculty, our students gain in-depth experience in the process of science, learn laboratory techniques, as well as share in the excitement of scientific discovery.
The Biology program is housed within the Biology department.
Physiology
Physiology, the bedrock of biomedical education, addresses much more than human health and disease. Integrating from gene to cell to organism, students explore and master anatomy and cellular and integrative physiology, and learn the cutting-edge investigational techniques that characterize physiological and biomedical advancement in the modern world.
The Physiology program is housed in the Biology department.
Biochemistry, Cell & Molecular Biology (BCMB)
BCMB includes the cutting edge topics of genomics (study of an organism’s entire genetic make-up), proteomics (study of the structure and functions of proteins) and bioinformatics (using technology to store and evaluate biological data). Graduates with the BCMB major are prepared for advanced study, including medical school and research-based Ph.D. programs, or for biotechnical careers in the pharmaceutical, health or agricultural industries.The BCMB program is jointly offered by the Biology and Chemistry departments.
Environmental Science
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary program that provides a rigorous and comprehensive grounding in the biological, chemical and physical aspects of the natural environment.The Environmental Science program is jointly offered by the Biology and Chemistry departments.
Neuroscience
Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system, particularly the workings of the brain. Vitally important, the nervous system controls how we behave, how we feel and how we function. Of critical importance is the study of diseases, which impact the brain and other areas of the nervous system. Research seeks to understand causes and discover successful treatments. Students gain an understanding of the brain by exploring the behavioral, cellular and anatomical aspects of the nervous system.The Neuroscience program is jointly offered by the Biology and Psychology departments.