Lina Yoo
Jenny EtzDenison Magazine
What you'll study as a biology major
A biology major studies the intricacies of life, big and small: Germs. Oceans. Evolution. Extinction. You’ll learn to rigorously observe the natural world and use scientific methods to reach conclusions anchored by data and supported by evidence. All bio major courses have an associated lab section, so you’ll do a LOT of hands-on science.
The basics
Start with a three-course core of molecular biology and unicellular life, multicellular life, and ecology and evolution. You’ll also take some chemistry.
Going deeper
Study conservation biology or bioinformatics, pathophysiology or plant evolution, or further your understanding of immunology and virology.
Explore through electives
Bio students pursuing a B.S. will take four additional science courses — math, physics, psychology, and anatomy are among many options.
Why is biology better at Denison?
Bio Reserve
Generations of Denisonians have conducted research at our 350-acre Biological Reserve, which includes a field station and walking trails full of native Ohio flora and fauna.
Three biology concentrations
Tailor your major to include a concentration in computational science, neuroscience, or sustainability and environmental science.
Share your research
Our monthly seminar series invites faculty, students, and outside speakers to discuss their research projects and connect with members of the biology community.
Jobs as a biology major
A Denison biology degree will prepare you for medical or graduate school or for jobs in health care, research labs, environmental agencies, advocacy groups, and in the field as foresters or fisheries biologists. See where our grads land.
Career communities
Biology majors often join one or more of our career communities. Discover potential jobs and career paths in one of our career communities, like our Technology, Data, and Science career community.
Career Exploration
Through the Knowlton Center for Career Exploration and its training center, Denison Edge, career coaches help you prepare for the next step after college, and industry experts help you acquire specialized skills and certifications.
Beyond the Classroom
Summer Scholars
Delve into independent research through our Summer Scholar program. All Summer Scholars receive a stipend and a housing allowance plus supplemental funds for research expenses.
Study Abroad
Study biology in your chosen region to enhance your language skills and build your career network. Off-campus opportunities might include programs at the Semester at Sea, Arcadia Abroad, the School for Field Studies, and DIS Copenhagen.
Internships
Recent Denison biology majors have interned at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and the Center for Integrated Oncology and Survivorship.
Biological Society
Some students join the Denison University Biological Society (DUBS), taking trips and joining biology-related activities alongside faculty. DUBS also participates in the local community through volunteer events with children to encourage a love of science.
