The School of Biological Sciences offers two degree programs to provide a diversity of education and training for the wide breadth of careers in biology. Note that you can switch between programs but this is best done early in your time at ISU. Getting directly involved in research is an important part of your professional development for many careers. We encourage you to participate in research for at least one semester during your time at ISU. For more information see the overview webpage on undergraduate research.

Biological Sciences Program (Major)

In the Biological Sciences Program students take courses from cellular biology to neurobiology to ecology. Within this program, we have six sequences. The General Biology sequence provides the broadest training for all types of careers in biology. The other sequences enable you to receive coursework and other training for more specific areas (Conservation Biology; Physiology, Neuroscience & Behavior; Plant Biology; Teacher Education; and Zoology) .

Sequences Within Biological Sciences Program (Major)

Conservation Biology

Example plan of study (pdf file).
For more information contact the sequence coordinator Dr. Angelo Capparella by e-mail or phone 309-438-5124.

General Biology

Example plan of study (pdf file).
For more information contact the sequence coordinator Megan Larson by e-mail or phone 309-438-8252.

Physiology, Neuroscience & Behavior

Example plan of study (pdf file).
For more information contact the sequence coordinator Dr. Wolfgang Stein by e-mail or phone 309-438-8119.

Plant Biology

Example plan of study (pdf file).
For more information contact the sequence coordinator Dr. Diane Byers by e-mail or phone 309-438-8617.

Teacher Education

Example plan of study (pdf file).
For more information contact the sequence coordinator Dr. Cynthia Moore by e-mail or phone 309-438-8161.

Zoology

Example plan of study (pdf file).
For more information contact the sequence coordinator Dr. Rachel Bowden by e-mail or phone 309-438-3834.

Molecular and Cellular Biology Program (Major)

In this program, courses focus on understanding of cells, cellular components and the functions of genes.The Molecular Cell Biology program provides a solid foundation for students seeking careers in medicine, entry level positions in biotechnology or the pharmaceutical industry, government, and as a basis for graduate studies in molecular biology.

Plan of study

Example plan of study for the Molecular and Cellular Biology Program (pdf file).

Contact for more information

For more information about the MCB undergraduate program contact the coordinator Erik Larson by e-mail or phone 309-438-7694.