University of Chicago

What you'll study

The biology curriculum at the University of Chicago covers the major scales of life from molecules and cells to organisms, populations and ecosystems. Typical core topics include molecular and cellular biology, genetics, development, physiology, ecology and evolution, and biochemistry. Students take both lecture and laboratory courses to build experimental skills and quantitative reasoning, with courses emphasising hypothesis testing, experimental design and data analysis.

Beyond core requirements, the programme offers electives in areas such as neuroscience, immunology, systems and synthetic biology, bioinformatics, developmental biology and organismal physiology. There are opportunities to take advanced seminars and journal clubs that focus on primary literature, as well as interdisciplinary courses drawing on chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science and public health.

Undergraduates are strongly encouraged to participate in supervised research in campus laboratories, research centres and affiliated national laboratories. Many students complete independent projects or an honours thesis under faculty supervision, and the department supports placements in summer research programmes and internships.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to show strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Typical incoming students have taken high school courses in biology and chemistry and have also studied algebra, geometry and calculus; physics and additional laboratory or advanced biology courses are advantageous. Evidence of quantitative aptitude and the ability to handle a rigorous, reading‑ and research‑oriented curriculum is important.

Successful applicants present a competitive overall academic record, strong letters of recommendation (preferably including one from a science teacher), and application materials that demonstrate curiosity, initiative and experience with laboratory or research activities where available. International and advanced programme credentials such as A‑levels, IB or other recognised secondary qualifications are considered alongside the standard application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the biology programme move into a wide range of careers. Many go on to graduate study (PhD) or professional programmes such as medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine. Biology alumni also enter research careers in academia, government and industry, including roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and diagnostics.

Other common pathways include careers in public health, science policy, regulatory affairs, patent law (often following additional legal training), science communication, education and data science. The programme’s emphasis on quantitative skills and research experience is well regarded by employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago combines a strong liberal‑arts education with a research‑intensive environment. Biology students benefit from close faculty mentorship, access to modern laboratory facilities and collaborative research centres. The university’s connections to nearby national laboratories and a dense biomedical and technology ecosystem expand internship and research options.

UChicago’s educational style stresses critical thinking, close reading of primary literature and interdisciplinary enquiry, allowing students to tailor their studies across departments. The combination of rigorous coursework, hands‑on research and broad intellectual training prepares graduates for a variety of advanced study and career paths.