Biology is the study of life. The Department of Biology at IU Northwest offers an interdisciplinary program in the life sciences leading to a Bachelor of Science degree, or a Bachelor of Arts degree. Students majoring in other subjects may also earn a Minor in Biology. Our undergraduate programs are designed to interface with the faculty's expertise in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, and environmental and ecological sciences. The programs are diverse, flexible, and designed to accommodate individuals who have a wide range of interests within the life sciences. Courses are available for students seeking preprofessional training in the medical sciences (premedical, predental, and allied health sciences), for those pursuing occupations in biotechnology, forensics, and the pharmaceutical industry, for students intending to continue with graduate studies, and for those interested in environment and conservation. We firmly believe that the training of an undergraduate student is enhanced by experience in the "discovery side" of the discipline. Thus, students are encouraged to participate in research with faculty mentors. Our faculty maintain active research programs, offering students the opportunity to engage in research projects across a broad spectrum of life science disciplines.

Each student majoring in biology is encouraged to acquire in-depth knowledge in related scientific disciplines or in other areas of study that use biology or contribute to biological methodologies. Biology students are thus encouraged to consider obtaining a minor in another area of study. The student's advisor will help plan such a program, which may be in disciplines in the College of Arts and Sciences or in other divisions of the university.

Learning Outcomes

1. Students will understand the core and fundamental aspects of living systems.
2. Students will be able to conduct scientific research with emphasis on biological research.
3. Students will be able to communicate effectively their understanding of life.
4. Students will know how to link their training in biology to the common good and the planet.

In addition to course work structured for the biology major, the Biology Department offers an array of classes designed for students majoring in other disciplines who are interested in certain areas of the life sciences.

The Department of Biology sponsors a chapter of Beta Beta Beta, the national biology honor society. Moreover, many of our students belong to student run organizations with faculty advisors such as the Biology Club and the PreProfessional Studies Club. These organizations foster friendships and community among students interested in the biological sciences and other sciences, and offer outside avenues for learning and gaining experience related to their formal training within the department.