Biology Academic Programs
Photo of student looking at a Petri dish No matter what area of life science interests you, the CMU Department of Biology has a program for you. In-depth opportunities range from cell and molecular biology, genetics, and microbiology to developmental biology, physiology, botany, ecology and conservation biology.

Prepare yourself for a successful career with personalized attention and exceptional resources at CMU.  Participate in applied research, scholarship and creative activity.  Many of your professors are experienced professionals who incorporate real-world insights into their teaching. By blending theory with hands-on research, your classes are designed to help you get you ready for your career or post-graduate training.

A major or minor in biology can be applied to a variety of programs designed to serve career interests of students in elementary and secondary teaching, natural resources, medical technology, pre-medicine, pre-osteopathy, pre-veterinary, and prepare you for graduate studies in the biological sciences.

Graduate programs include a Master of Science degree emphasizing thesis research or a non-thesis degree in biology for teachers. Interdepartmental programs include a neuroscience major and natural resources minor.

To develop the background and skills you need for these and other biology-related careers, choose your academic major or minor from these CMU programs:

Some of these programs enable you to concentrate your studies in specific areas that best match your career aspirations. You also can major in various interdisciplinary programs such as neuroscience or environmental studies.

Master's degree programs in biology and conservation biology also are offered to help you prepare for your career.​