Indiana University

What you'll study

The degree combines core courses in the fundamentals of life sciences with flexible elective options and hands-on laboratory work. Typical first-year modules cover introductory biology, general chemistry and quantitative skills (calculus or statistics), establishing a base in cell structure and function, genetics, physiology and evolution.

In later years you will move into intermediate and advanced topics such as molecular biology, biochemistry, developmental biology, microbiology, ecology, population biology and organismal diversity. Most students take a sequence of lab courses that develop experimental design, microscopy, molecular techniques and data analysis. Many programmes also include a capstone experience—such as an independent research project, a senior seminar or an applied practicum.

Students can choose elective streams to deepen expertise—for example, cell and molecular biology, ecology and evolution, organismal biology or interdisciplinary areas that link biology with data science, conservation or biomedical subjects. Optional modules and experiences frequently include:

• Laboratory techniques and molecular methods
• Genomics, bioinformatics and computational biology
• Field ecology and population sampling methods
• Physiology and neurobiology
• Microbial ecology and immunology
• Science communication and ethics
• Internships, service-learning and undergraduate research

Programme structure

The programme follows a broad-to-specialised progression: foundational courses and general education requirements in the early years, discipline-specific coursework and labs in the middle years, and advanced electives plus a research or capstone element in the final year. Students may receive transfer or advanced placement credit for prior AP/IB/college-level work where applicable.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification with strong performance in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes high school biology and chemistry and coursework in algebra or calculus. Admissions consider academic record, recommendation letters and any relevant experience such as lab work, research projects or science-related extracurriculars.

International applicants should present the equivalent secondary credentials and evidence of English language proficiency where required. Transfer applicants from other colleges are considered based on college coursework and may receive transfer credit for applicable courses. Some students place into particular courses via placement testing or by demonstrating prior learning.

Career prospects

Graduates of the biology programme pursue a wide range of careers. Common pathways include:

• Research technician or laboratory assistant in academic, government or industry settings
• Further training in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy or other health professions (many students follow pre-professional pathways)
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical roles such as quality control, product development or regulatory affairs
• Environmental and conservation work, including ecology, wildlife management and environmental consulting
• Science communication, education and outreach at schools, museums or non-profit organisations
• Graduate study in biology, ecology, genetics, neuroscience, bioinformatics or related disciplines leading to research or academic careers

Undergraduates often enhance employability through internships, undergraduate research, teaching assistantships and participation in campus career services.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers a large, research-active biology programme with opportunities for undergraduates to work alongside faculty on original research projects. The university supports experiential learning through well-equipped laboratories, core facilities for genomics and imaging, and field sites in the region for ecological study.

The Bloomington campus provides a vibrant student community with clubs, seminars and outreach programmes linked to the biological sciences. Students benefit from advising structures that support career planning and graduate/professional school preparation, and from partnerships across campus that enable interdisciplinary study in data science, environmental studies and public health.

Overall, the programme is suited for students who want a rigorous grounding in biological science with the flexibility to tailor their studies toward research, applied work or professional training.