Biological Sciences
Academic Department
Biology is the study of life. Where did the first organisms come from and how has life changed over millennia? How do we function as individuals – what makes us respond differently to temperature or disease? Biology seeks to understand how organisms function in a changing environment.
M-F 9am-4pm
Join the Journey of Discovery!
Work with biology professors in their labs to discover how living things grow, protect themselves, communicate, reproduce, and survive. You’ll also earn credit for your degree while learning what it’s like to be a scientist by doing real science.
Explore. Research. Thrive: Discover Your Path in Biology
Your growth is at the heart of everything we do. You’ll learn from expert professors in state-of-the-art labs, gaining hands-on experiences that build both confidence and skills for any path you choose. As a Biology major, your learning journey doesn’t just prepare you for the future—it becomes the foundation for the future you create.
Careers Powered by Biology
Biology is for everyone—whether you’re preparing for a health profession, pursuing a research career, or exploring the life sciences from a broader perspective. Our programs emphasize hands-on learning from the start: in labs, in the field, and through collaborative research that hones your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You’ll work with real data, tackle complex questions, and connect biology to real-world challenges—all with the support of expert faculty and peers who share your curiosity. These immersive, flexible experiences prepare you for diverse futures—medical or graduate school, biotech, education, conservation; and give you the skills to adapt and thrive in a changing world.
Why Biological Sciences at UNC?
Wide Range of Pathways
Our program is broad and gives students knowledge and skills in areas like ecology, evolution, cell biology, and teaching. The wide range of classes lets students learn about different topics all in one degree.
Hands on Learning
About 80% of students take part in research by working in a teacher’s lab. This hands-on experience helps them learn how science works in the real world. They build important skills like asking questions, solving problems, and thinking carefully about what they discover. Students also learn how to explain their ideas clearly by giving presentations and sharing their research with others.
Professor Nick Pullen, guides students on lab research.
Biological Sciences Certificates: Add Career-Ready Skills to Your Degree
Enhance your bachelor’s degree with a certificate in Botany, Wildlife, or Zoology—designed to give you specialized knowledge for careers in natural resource management. These certificates can be completed alongside your major and fulfill coursework requirements often needed by federal and state agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service. The Botany certificate focuses on plant identification and taxonomy, the Wildlife certificate explores species management and conservation, and the Zoology certificate provides a strong foundation in animal biology. Each program equips you with practical, field-relevant skills that set you apart in environmental and ecological careers.
Graduate School Opportunities
About 70% of students who meet the requirements get into professional schools. Teachers and advisors help guide you from your first classes all the way to your school interviews.
Ross Hall in Spring
Career Opportunities
With a degree in Biological Science, you’ll have exciting career options in top fields like hospitals and healthcare, K–12 education, colleges and universities, and biotechnology. Graduates go on to rewarding jobs in healthcare, science, management, and even sales—showing just how many paths this degree can open for your future.
Voices From Our Program
I discovered a passion for research, which opened up a career path I hadn’t considered before: graduate school. My time at UNC has truly shaped my sense of who I want to become. – Cheyenne Smith, Molecular and Cellular Biology
Beyond the Classroom
Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science
The SACNAS-UNC chapter is dedicated to supporting students through mentoring, academic success, personal networking, and a strong sense of community. Members have the opportunity to attend and present scientific research at the national SACNAS conference, take part in social events that celebrate diversity in STEM, and participate in professional development workshops that strengthen their academic and career skills. Through these experiences, students can connect with peers and professionals from regional and national SACNAS chapters while building a supportive network that uplifts individuals from traditionally underrepresented identities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Tri Beta
Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta) is an honor society for students, particularly undergraduates, dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological study and extending boundaries of human knowledge through scientific research.
Biology Student Association
A general biology club open to all majors and minors. For more information on the club and how to join, contact the club advisor, Dr. Haughian, at james.haughian@unco.edu or 970-351-2716.
Our News
