Biological sciences is the study of living organisms and their relationship to the environment. The major in Biological Sceinces, administered through the Division of Life Sciences Office of Undergraduate Instruction, is intended to provide a broad and comprehensive training in modern biology. Topics of study may include biochemistry, botany, bacteriology, cell biology, ecology and evolution, endocrinology, immunology, molecular biology, nuerobiology, and physiology. The major in Biological Sciences is recommended for those who wish to study biology as part of their liberal arts education, preparing them for a career in one of the health professions, graduate studies in biology, a teaching career in secondary schools (courses in education are also required), as well as employment in various areas of the life sciences. If a student wishes to concentrate his/her studies in a specific area of biology, he/she should consider a major offered by one of the departments in the Division of Life Sciences or in Cook College.

Some scientists conduct basic research to increase the knowledge of living organisms, while those in applied research use this knowledge to develop new medicines, increase crop yields and improve the environment. Work is generally performed in a laboratory or outdoor field setting. Other biological science graduates work in management or administration, planning programs for food and drug testing or managing a botanical garden. Some work as consultants to business firms, sell chemicals or laboratory instruments, or write for technical publications.

While most graduates work in a related occupation and eventually obtain an advanced degree, others choose another direction. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities. A bachelor's degree is sufficient for advanced technician jobs in the medical field, lab/research assistant positions, or testing and inspection jobs. An advanced degree is required for most other positions in the scientific field.

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• See the Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional career information.