Biology Department

The interests of the biology faculty span a wide range of sub-disciplines within the field including biochemistry, biomechanics, botany, conservation biology, cell biology, developmental biology, ecology, evolution, genetics, invertebrate zoology, marine biology, molecular biology, ornithology, parasitology, physiology, and symbiosis.

Learning Goals and Outcomes for the Biology Major

The biology department prides itself on involving undergraduates in scientific research either through investigative laboratory activities, independent research projects as part of 200 or 300-level courses, independent research in a faculty member’s research laboratory, or senior honors thesis projects. Biology majors learn and practice hypothesis development, experimental design, and data presentation and analysis. They also learn to use the primary literature to place research and results into context. After Wheaton, many graduates enroll in Master’s or Ph.D. programs or go to medical, dental, optometry, or veterinary school. Graduates pursue careers in such fields as biotechnology, conservation biology, environmental education, and medicine.