Department of Biology, Agriculture and Chemistry

Connecting Theory With Practice

We support students in developing a deep understanding of the living and physical world through an integrated curriculum grounded in scientific inquiry, collaboration and real-world experience. Students gain foundational knowledge in the natural sciences while exploring specialized pathways that prepare them for meaningful careers in the health sciences, biotechnology, education, environmental fields and beyond.

Through labs, fieldwork and interdisciplinary coursework, students apply classroom concepts to authentic problems. Faculty lead collaborative research initiatives that engage undergraduates in studies ranging from biomedical analysis to environmental monitoring. This emphasis on applied science equips students with the practical tools and scientific mindset needed for both immediate employment and advanced study.

Academic Pathways

Our majors and concentrations are designed to reflect diverse student interests and career goals, whether in healthcare, teaching, research or industry. Each pathway offers rigorous coursework, individualized mentorship and experiential learning opportunities that foster intellectual growth and professional development.

Applied Learning and Research Experiences

Students in the Biology, Agriculture and Chemistry Department don’t just study science, they practice it. Our programs emphasize hands-on experiences that build the technical, analytical and collaborative skills essential for today’s scientific careers.

Hands-on Science That Prepares You for What’s Next

From day one, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and join faculty-led research across diverse fields. Students can explore evolutionary genomics in the Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, study the genetic regulation of development in the Laboratory of Developmental Genetics and Tissue Homeostasis, or engage in applied agricultural biotechnology in the Haffa Lab. Others examine microbiomes and plant-pathogen interactions in the Plant Pathology Lab, or conduct work in molecular biology and gene expression in the Sreenivasan Lab.

Undergraduate students frequently contribute to long-term research projects, present at conferences and co-author scientific publications. These early research opportunities allow students to gain confidence as scientists and develop competitive experience for graduate school, medical programs and science-based careers.