Ohio Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The biology curriculum provides a broad foundation across molecular, cellular, organismal and ecological levels of life. Early coursework typically covers introductory cell and molecular biology, general ecology, genetics and evolution, and includes multiple laboratory courses to build practical skills in microscopy, molecular techniques, bioinformatics and data analysis. Upper-level modules allow specialisation and might include molecular genetics, developmental biology, physiology, microbiology, plant biology, conservation biology, behaviour, and advanced ecology.

Independent research with faculty mentors is a central element: students commonly design and carry out a senior capstone project or thesis, present findings at campus symposia and may coauthor publications. Field courses and off‑campus study options provide hands‑on experience in marine, terrestrial and freshwater systems. Coursework in quantitative methods — such as biostatistics, experimental design and computational biology — is integrated to prepare students for data‑driven work.

• Core topics: cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, organismal biology
• Laboratory training: molecular techniques, microbiology, physiology labs
• Research: mentored projects, senior thesis/capstone
• Supplementary study: biostatistics, bioinformatics, environmental science electives
• Opportunities: field courses, internships, study away and cross‑disciplinary collaborations

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Recommended high school preparation includes biology, chemistry and at least one year of algebra; courses in physics and calculus are helpful for students interested in quantitative or physiological tracks.

Admission is based on a holistic review of academic records, coursework strength, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Many applicants submit standardised test scores, although Ohio Wesleyan evaluates applications in the context of each student’s entire file and may consider such scores optional depending on the application pathway. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of prior laboratory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a biology degree from Ohio Wesleyan pursue a wide range of pathways. Common options include:

• Graduate study and research in biology, biotechnology or related fields
• Health professions (pre‑medical, dental, veterinary) supported by pre‑health advising and required prerequisites
• Laboratory and technical positions in industry, clinical labs and biotech companies
• Conservation, natural resource management and environmental consulting
• Secondary school science teaching and science communication

The programme’s emphasis on mentored research, internships and quantitative skills helps graduates move into both professional roles and competitive graduate and medical programmes.

Why study at Ohio Wesleyan University

Ohio Wesleyan is a liberal arts university that emphasises small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and undergraduate research opportunities. Biology students benefit from hands‑on laboratory and field experiences, personalised advising for research and pre‑professional careers, and opportunities to collaborate across disciplines.

Facilities supporting biological study include modern teaching and research laboratories and access to field sites for ecology and environmental work. The campus environment fosters close faculty‑student relationships, allowing undergraduates to take on substantive roles in research projects that might otherwise be reserved for graduate students at larger institutions. Additionally, connections to internships and regional research partners help students gain practical experience and professional contacts prior to graduation.