About this Program
Biology has long been recognized as basic to environment, agriculture, and medicine. Because the topics studied by biologists range from sub-cellular particles to global environmental concerns, and because of the variety of living organisms and the various ways of studying them, many specialties have developed.
The BA program provides majors with the necessary background to pursue careers in the diverse areas of life science, including health care professions, and the many careers that provide the interface between science and society.
Why Study Biology at UMD?
- Active learning environment
- Access to state-of-the–art instrumentation
- Focus on undergraduate teaching and research
Acquired Skills
- Comprehension: Students will know and be able to explain the basic definitions and core concepts in their respective field of study.
- Application: Students will be able to apply biology knowledge and techniques towards solutions to problems.
- Analysis: Students will be able to determine an appropriate method for research, collect data and carry out the research using techniques and equipment specific to their field.
- Communication: Students will be able to write about scientific ideas and present their ideas and findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
Career Possibilities
Biologists with a Bachelor’s degree often do laboratory or field-based work directly related to their undergraduate training. For example graduates might:
- Work in an academic or private industry research lab.
- Join a biology-based agency such as the state’s department of natural resources or forestry service
- Get hired by federal agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Do environmental assessments or wildlife surveys with a consulting firm
Admissions and Scholarships
In addition to SCSE scholarships, our department has several scholarships including:
- A. Jane Berry Warren Scholarship
- Karim Pre-Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
- Ernest and Tyyne niemu Scholarship,
- T.O. Odlaug Scholarship
- Ed and Alma Turcotte Scholarship
- Mowbray Scholarship
- Jon McCabe Scholarship
- UMD Peterson Memorial Scholarship
- Solidarity Through Science Scholarship
Student Clubs
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Biology club: This club allows students to interact socially and academically with peers and department faculty, contribute to service projects and fundraisers, take a break from your studies, enjoy activities like picnics, camping trips, bowling excursions with faculty and intramural sports, Ask questions about biology classes or faculty, Share feedback and get information from departmental administrators.
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Entomology club: This club is open to anyone that is interested in insects. Students meet to discuss and explore various topics in entomology through scientific articles, field outings, and by sharing personal experiences (insects gathered, photographed, witnessed, etc.). Members also volunteer with U of M Extension Service to provide insect identification help and outreach activities for the public.
Pre-professional clubs:
- Pre-Dentistry Club
- Pre-Medicine Club (Pre-Med Club)
- Pre Optometry Club
- Pre-OT Club
- Pre-Pharmacy Club
- Pre-Physical Therapy (Pre PT)
- Pre-Physician Assistant Club (Pre-PA Club)
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club