Biology

About the biology major

Biology is a natural science concerned with the study of life through the observation of structure, function, reproduction, growth, origin, evolution, and behavior of living organisms as they relate to their natural environment.

Through coursework and research, you'll gain an understanding of foundational events in biology, as well as current developments and discoveries. Studying biology prepares you to use scientific knowledge to make informed decisions benefiting all living things.

Skills and abilities this major develops: application of the scientific process to address biological problems using hypothesis-driven inquiry; experiment design, data collection, and quantitative reasoning; research and documentation; and written comprehension and expression.

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IU Indianapolis’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Undergraduate research

Undergraduate research experiences help you develop important problem-solving skills and experience for your future career.

Professional work experience

Grow your skills through internships or part-time jobs. Join the School of Science Career and Internship site in Canvas for additional information and resources.

Center for Service and Learning

The IU Indianapolis Center for Service and Learning has many service-oriented programs that allow you to work with and impact your community in endless ways.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Cell biology
  • Embryology-immunology
  • General physics I and II
  • Genetics and molecular biology
  • Math (calculus)
  • Organic chemistry (lecture and lab)
  • Organismal biology

Possible careers

  • Associate consultant
  • Data analyst
  • DNA technologist
  • Lab technician
  • Microbiologist
  • Research associate

Where could I work?

  • BioStorage
  • Covance
  • Dow AgroSciences
  • Eli Lilly and Company
  • IU School of Medicine
  • Mid-America Clinical Labs
Get your interest code

Where to get more information

Department of Biology

IU Indianapolis Biology Club

American Institute of Biological Sciences

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Cluster

This major belongs to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster. The STEM cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in the sciences, technology, engineering, informatics, and computing. The STEM cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools.

Learn about the STEM cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

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