Biology studies living organisms, divided into many specialized fields that cover their morphology, physiology, anatomy, behavior, origin, and distribution.
Biology is a diverse and exciting field. Both as preparation for specific professional careers and as the focus of a general liberal arts curriculum, a major in biology is an excellent choice for many students.
UNO's Biology Major is a Solid Foundation
The biology major can serve as a stepping-stone for a wide variety of career opportunities. For students planning to attend medical, dental, or veterinary school, or graduate school in biological and applied sciences, the biology major provides a strong foundation in the basic life sciences. This foundation of knowledge, plus laboratory experience, also prepares students well for research and technical positions in universities, government, and industry.
While a major in biology provides an excellent background for these technical careers, it can also serve as a valuable and satisfying focus of a liberal arts education for those not planning careers in science-related fields. An understanding of basic biological principles is of increasing importance in today’s world. A knowledgeable and concerned citizenry is the best guarantee that these issues will be resolved most effectively. Finally, an understanding of the processes of life can heighten our perception and appreciation of the world around us—its beauty, variety, and uniqueness.
- Comparative Genomics
- Cancer Biology
- Flora of the Great Plains
- Conservation Biology
- Restoration Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Fire Ecology
- Developmental Biology
- Environmental Studies Club
- Nebraska Watershed Network
- Anatomy Academic Assistants
- Pre-Health Professionals Club
- Students United for Global Health
- Women in Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics
- Several student scholarships are available
Knowledge and Skills Gained as a Biology Major
Knowledge:
- Appreciation for the diversity of life on earth
- Understanding the flow of energy and matter in biological systems
- Understanding the process and outcomes of evolution
- Observing of the interdependence of living things
- Strategies for sustainable living
- Understanding the role of biology in addressing societal issues
- Understanding the mechanisms of genetic inheritance and information flow
- Observing emergent properties of complex biological networks
- Understanding structure-function relationships from molecules to ecosystems
Skills:
- Design, conduct and interpret scientific research
- Isolate and analyze DNA, RNA, and protein
- Sequence genomes
- Conduct statistical analysis
- Apply a scientific approach to problems
- Communicate findings using models, charts, and graphs
- Communicate new research findings to lay audiences
- Communicate biological research findings using scientific writing
By nature, Liberal Arts majors make great employees in any field because of their ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and solve complex problems. These timeless skills make them attractive to employers in all walks of society. Specifically, though, Bioinformatics majors often pursue careers as:
- Forest Service Biologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Laboratory Research Technician
- Scientific Sales
- Park Service Biologist
- Technical Service Representative
- Technical Writer
- Over 100 different health careers*
- High School Teacher or College Professor*
*May require graduate study
Biology Majors & Complementary Minors
When the biology major is matched with complementary minors and thoughtful internships, new possibilities arise.
A few examples are:
- Biology + computer science = High-tech Biological research
- Biology + gerontology = Nursing Home Coordinator
- Biology + business = Industry jobs of all types
- Biology + English = Technical Writer