Wisconsin Lutheran College

Programme overview

WLC's Biology major centers on immersive, experiential learning: classroom instruction is paired with laboratory work, faculty-guided research and field study. Students work closely with doctorate-holding faculty, learn with no teaching-assistant supervision, and complete a senior research project that they design, execute and present.

What you'll study

Coursework and research span molecular to ecosystem levels. Typical topics and hands-on experiences described by the program include:

• Virology and bacteriology, including how viruses (e.g., COVID-19) and bacteria infect and how humans respond immunologically and physically.
• Molecular genetics and DNA manipulation, such as engineering microbial phosphate biosensors.
• Human anatomy and physiology supported by cadaver study and cutting-edge anatomy/physiology labs.
• Developmental biology and stem cell research, including heart development and non-embryonic stem cell biology.
• Aquatic and marine ecology, assessing local waterways and conservation research in marine habitats.
• Soil and plant science, greenhouse and field soil studies, and the genetics of plant development.
• Microbial cell biology aimed at identifying antibiotic targets and other subcellular investigations.
• Opportunities to present research at conferences and contribute to journals.
• Facilities supporting this work include specialized labs in Generac Hall (human anatomy lab, physiology lab, marine biology lab with a 500-gallon reef tank, greenhouse, NMR lab, makerspace, and additional biology and chemistry labs).

Entry requirements

The source text does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective students should consult WLC admissions for application prerequisites and placement expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for professional roles in biology-related fields or further study; nearly 35% of majors continue into graduate or professional programs. Undergraduate research experience and conference presentations are highlighted as pathways to employment or advanced degrees.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The department notes opportunities to engage in faculty-guided research and to present at conferences—activities that can strengthen applications for external scholarships, research grants and graduate funding. Contact the college's financial aid office and biology faculty for program-specific funding and undergraduate research support.