university of illinois springfield

What you'll study

The Biology programme provides a balanced curriculum in organismal and molecular biology, emphasising laboratory skills, quantitative reasoning and scientific communication. Core topics include cell and molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology and physiology. Students complete a sequence of laboratory courses to develop practical techniques such as microscopy, molecular methods (DNA/RNA analysis), microbiological culturing, and ecological field methods.

• Foundations: introductory biology sequence, general chemistry, and college-level mathematics or statistics.
• Core biology courses: cell biology, genetics, microbiology, ecology, evolution, comparative physiology, and biochemistry concepts.
• Laboratory and field work: multiple lab courses, a multidisciplinary lab capstone or research project, and opportunities for field-based study in local ecosystems.
• Electives and concentrations: options typically include molecular/cellular topics, ecology and conservation, organismal biology, or pre-professional preparation (pre-med, pre-dental, etc.).
• Capstone or research experience: an independent research project or senior seminar giving experience in experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing.
• General education: humanities, social sciences and communication courses to develop broad skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical academic preparation includes biology, chemistry and mathematics at college-preparatory level. Competitive applicants usually present a solid cumulative GPA and evidence of success in science courses. Evidence of laboratory experience, relevant extracurriculars (science clubs, field work, volunteering) or community college science credits strengthens an application.

The university accepts applications from first-year and transfer students. Standard documentation includes transcripts and a personal statement; standardised tests may be optional in some admissions cycles. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency according to the university’s published requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers or further study. Common pathways include:

• Laboratory technician roles in clinical, environmental or industrial settings.
• Environmental consulting, conservation work, natural resource management and field ecology positions.
• Support roles in public health, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Teaching at secondary levels (often combined with teacher certification or postgraduate qualification).
• Progression to graduate study (master’s, PhD) or professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry, optometry or physician associate training.
• Positions in government agencies or non‑profit organisations where scientific literacy and analytical skills are required.

Why study at university of illinois springfield

UIS offers a student-centred learning environment with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty actively involved in undergraduate mentoring and research supervision. The campus’s location provides internship and collaboration opportunities with state agencies, hospitals and regional environmental organisations, which can support practical experience and professional networking.

Facilities and resources include teaching laboratories, opportunities for paid or credit-bearing undergraduate research, and academic advising tailored to career goals or preparation for professional and graduate programmes. The programme’s emphasis on hands-on training and communication skills helps graduates move smoothly into employment or further study.