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Undergraduate Degrees

What is Biology?

Biology is a natural science concerned with the study of life through the observation of structure, function, reproduction, growth, origin, evolution, and behavior of living organisms and their relation to their natural environment.  Foundations of modern biology include: cell theory, evolution, genetics, homoeostasis, and energy.

IUPUI biology specialties include: bacterial pathogenesis, yeast genome, organ regeneration, biomass fuels.

Why study biology?

Geneticists, molecular biologists and physiologists have provided valuable insight into how cells and systems function. Biologists have helped improve human life in many ways, including the discovery of antibiotics and other medicines, a better understanding of the cellular processes leading to cancer, and the development of new crops. Information from the Human Genome Project is being used to identify genes and proteins involved in many disease processes. However, there are still many unknowns. Studying biology provides a background for students to evaluate and understand new discoveries and to make informed decisions in the use of scientific knowledge to benefit all living organisms.

What is the biology department like?

The faculty and staff of the Department of Biology provide an environment where students at all levels can explore, discover, and learn biology through coursework and research.

We place a strong emphasis on high-quality classroom teaching. Professors teach lecture and laboratory courses and conduct research with undergraduate students.

What undergraduate biology degrees are available?

What careers are available?

Many career opportunities exist for biology majors, especially now, with the rise of the biotechnology industry and the sequencing of the human genome. Jobs are available directly after the bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) as entry-level careers in gene sequencing, drug testing and development, immunology, agriculture, and in all molecular, cellular and developmental areas. Learn more about career possibilities and employers of IUPUI biology grads.