Biology

Biology encompasses the study of all living things, from cells and molecules to organisms and ecosystems. Wheaton biology majors conduct and present research, guided by expert faculty members, in well-equipped facilities. A rooftop greenhouse filled with diverse plants and on-campus woodlands are living labs for students, especially those interested in ecology and botany. A biology major provides a solid foundation for medical, dental, optometry, or veterinary school, as well a range of master’s and Ph.D. programs. If you’re interested in the health professions, Wheaton’s pre-med advising program will keep you on the right track.

Major

Minor

97%

97% of Biology majors from the past five years have found employment or achieved a service opportunity within six months of graduation *

Recent Graduates


Sample First Jobs

  • Biological Technician, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
  • Clinical Research Technologist, Boston Children’s Hospital
  • Health Informatics Program Assistant, University of New England
  • Research Technician, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
  • Veterinary Assistant, North Country Veterinary Clinic


Sample Graduate Schools

  • Cornell University
  • Harvard University
  • Massachusetts College of Pharmacy
  • University of Massachusetts Amherst
  • University of Texas

*outcomes data is based on a knowledge rate of 64% for the classes of 2014-2018

The Research Experience


The Biology Department’s Research Experience course is an intensive lab course that allows students to engage in authentic scientific research.  Multiple sections are taught each semester, with each focusing on the area of expertise of the faculty instructor. As scientists, students will join in the common aspects of all scientific research: inquiry, hypothesis formation, experimental design, data collection, analysis, and build your scientific communication skills. Students will pursue an unanswered scientific question and become a producer of scientific knowledge, not just a consumer!  This course fulfills both a requirement for the Biology major and can also fulfill the Sophomore Experience criteria.



Facilities

Department

Offered by the Biology department.