Biology
Earn a Biology Degree at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú, a Campus Wild With Possibility
By earning your bachelor’s degree in biology at the ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú, you’ll set yourself on a path of exponential growth. Here, you’ll learn in an environment designed to help you achieve your goals and be supported and encouraged by faculty who push you to reach your full potential.
The Biology program explores genetics, ecology, molecular, and evolutionary biology through a blend of classroom, lab, and fieldwork. Students gain research experience and preparation for careers in healthcare, environmental science, biotechnology, or graduate study.
Career Paths
Graduates with a biology background are well-equipped for careers that require scientific literacy, research skills, and a deep understanding of living systems. Students majoring in biology are especially prepared for roles in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and allied health, as well as opportunities in scientific research, biotechnology, environmental science, and graduate study in biology or related fields.
Student Research in Biology
Biology students can earn scholarships and conduct research through programs like the GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Scholars and the ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú Biology Scholarship. Opportunities include faculty-led projects, invasive species work, and participation in the Undergraduate Research Program, with options to publish or present findings at conferences.
At the Crossroads of Science and Discovery
Biology Majors Dive Into the Mysteries of Life, Unlocking the Secrets of the World One Cell At a Time.
ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú gave me a strong foundation in plant science. As an undergrad, I worked with Dr. Rebecca Hale studying Sarracenia species, which inspired me to pursue a master’s at Auburn University researching drought stress in hemp. The mentorship and hands-on research prepared me for the demands of graduate study and launched my career. Today, I work at NC State’s Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center, breeding tomatoes for disease and stress resistance. I’m deeply grateful for the support and opportunities I had at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú."
Exploration Through Experience
Biology majors at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú engage in hands-on research exploring topics like water quality, invasive species, and ecosystem health. Through fieldwork, lab analysis, and faculty-mentored projects, students contribute to real-world environmental efforts and share findings with nonprofits and agencies. With opportunities to present at conferences and work on grant-funded studies, students gain experience that leads to graduate study and careers in environmental science, conservation, and resource management.
Ximena Reyna-Campozano researched how plant arrangement affects insect visitation in urban landscapes.
For ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú alumni Noah Rice ‘21 and Judy Felipe De La Cruz ‘26, the Pre-Healthcare Professions Internship at the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) was a pivotal step toward careers in medicine.
Biology student Kayla Barrett and Assistant Professor Courtney Clark-Hachtel have been working to better understand the radiation tolerance of the microscopic tardigrade, with the goal of eventually applying that knowledge to other species.
Maura Melear runs tests on water quality tests on samples from local streams, and this data is shared with non-profits and government organizations to help pave the way for positive environmental impact.
Transfer students Gabi Parker (left) and Michelle Paredes began undergraduate research with with the Southern Appalachian Rare and Imperiled Plants project, powered by a grant from the Walnut Cove Members Association. They are studying Sarracenia, a pitcher plant native to Western North Carolina.
Alumna Katie Caruso shares her research on the declining Hemlock population in Western North Carolina. The ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú’s liberal arts and sciences education allowed her to reach a broader understanding of field biology and the human role in the natural world.
Renee Fortner (Class of ‘06) credits her summer research as the reason she was able to get a paid research assistantship in graduate school. Through that research, she and another student studied an invasive grass species on the Biltmore Estate and determined how it was able to invade forest environments. She now works with local organization Riverlink as their watershed resources manager.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Highlands Biological Station
Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, the Highlands Biological Station (HBS) is a renowned field station that supports research and education in biodiversity, ecology, and conservation. While operated by Western Carolina University and affiliated with UNC Chapel Hill, the station is open to researchers and educators from across the region—including ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú.
Biology students at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú have the opportunity to conduct original field research at HBS, often in collaboration with faculty and research partners. Over the years, our students have contributed to published studies based on work conducted at the station, gaining firsthand experience in field methods, data collection, and ecological analysis. HBS offers a rich and biodiverse setting for immersive research, making it an ideal location for students interested in forest ecology, invasive species, and conservation biology.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú & Industry Partnerships
Biology majors at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú have the chance to expand their learning through a variety of hands-on experiences. You can participate in undergraduate research programs at other universities or research centers, present your work at professional conferences across the country, and build valuable connections with scientists and graduate programs. The department also regularly hosts visiting scientists and guest speakers who share insights on a range of biological topics—from cutting-edge research to career paths in the sciences. These informal events offer an excellent opportunity to network, explore your interests, and learn more about potential graduate school opportunities.
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
Dedicated to scientific discovery, hands-on teaching, and community engagement—that’s us. ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú Biology faculty are active researchers, passionate educators, and mentors who support students in and beyond the classroom. From molecular biology to field ecology, our faculty lead projects that involve students in meaningful research and real-world problem-solving. With a commitment to inclusive learning and scientific curiosity, we prepare students to think critically, explore boldly, and contribute to the biological sciences in impactful ways.
Related Programs
Ready for what's next?
Earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú and prepare for a successful career in healthcare, research, environmental science, biotechnology, education, and beyond.