Biological Sciences
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Major Requirements
Liberal Studies Requirements
Schedule of Classes
Department Site
To inquire about this program:
Admission Office | 312-362-8300
The Department of Biological Sciences provides programs for biology majors, other science majors, and students of the liberal arts. Majors take a year of introductory biology followed by a core program in ecology, genetics, and cell biology. Beyond the core program we offer a substantial number of courses which permit specialization in anatomy, aquatic ecology, evolutionary biology, microbiology, neurobiology, immunology, embryology, toxicology, molecular biology, and the physiology of animals and plants. The diversity of course opportunities also allows students the ability to have a firm academic foundation for entry into numerous post-graduate programs in areas such as medicine, allied health, lab research, or science education. We also provide numerous learning opportunities outside the classroom including laboratory and library research projects, journal clubs, internships, student organizations and research seminars.
The McGowan Biological and Environmental Sciences Building provides modern teaching labs and spacious research facilities. The building houses many specialized equipment rooms including tissue culture facilities, PCR labs, environmental chambers, a DNA sequencer, a darkroom and a greenhouse. Students enjoy our skylit atrium lounge, a study area and a computer lab. Most faculty direct their own research programs that include undergraduate and graduate students.
Students often enjoy spending time in our spacious atrium area or our student lounge. The McGowan building houses a student computer lab, although the entire building is set up for wireless access.
Biology classes in the first and second year, as well as many of the upper level courses, are designed to help develop laboratory skills, and faculty are working directly with students in each of the lab sections. The faculty are recognized nationally and internationally for academic and professional achievement in a variety of scientific areas. Most faculty members direct their own research programs that include undergraduate and graduate students as vital components of their research teams.
Chicago has a large number of world-class researchers and teachers which further enhance a student's opportunities. Resources and internships are often available to students at such facilities as Argonne National Laboratories, Children's Memorial Hospital, the Field Museum, and Lincoln Park Zoo, just to name a few.
