Biology Major

    Biology is the science of living things

    Biology is the science of living things, from the tiniest microbes to the largest plants and animals, and the connections within the web of life.

    As a Biology major you will:

    • Investigate core concepts such as evolution, structure and function, and the transformation of energy and matter
    • Develop practical, professional and laboratory skills to use in your coursework, career, and beyond
    • Engage a broad biological perspective for tackling challenges in scientific disciplines and society

    Career Paths

    Biology graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in healthcare, biotechnology, research, policy, and the environment.

    Here are just a few examples of what our biology graduates are doing with their careers:

    What CALS alumni do:

    Physician

    Registered Nurse

    Dentist

    Optometrist

    Pharmacist

    Veterinarian

    Where CALS alumni work:

    National Institute of Health

    Mayo Clinic

    UW Health

    Medical College of Wisconsin

    What CALS alumni do:

    Research Assistant

    Clinical Research Coordinator

    Project Manager

    Scientist

    Inside Sales Representative

    Where CALS alumni work:

    Exact Sciences

    Epic

    Thermo Fisher

    Catalent

    Labcorp

    What CALS alumni do:

    Air Quality Technician

    Conservation Biologist

    Project Manager

    Where CALS alumni work:

    WI Department of Natural Resources

    What can CALS offer you?

    CALS students are curious to discover how our living world works and are passionate about using science to improve it.

    Our programs span five areas of study and encourage students to pursue their passions in the classroom and beyond. Learn more about how our students are set up for success:

    Want to learn more about the biology major?
    Explore admission requirements, course offerings, 4-year plans, and more on UW–Madison’s undergraduate Guide.

    Why get a biology degree in CALS?

    A degree in biology is offered in both the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) and the College of Letters & Science (L&S). The major requirements are the same in both colleges, but the college requirements are different.

    Students in CALS earn a bachelor of science degree in biology. College requirements include a first-year seminar, an international studies course to develop global perspectives and coursework in physical, biological, natural, and social sciences. Additionally, students complete a capstone course that helps integrate concepts they’ve learned in the major. 

    For a complete breakdown of the degree requirements across the programs, check out the UW–Madison undergraduate Guide.

    Your CALS Experience

    Students who participate in volunteer work

    Graduates who plan to continue their education

    Students who complete a second major or certificate

    Advisor & Contact Information

    Advisors can answer your questions, help you create a degree plan that meets your personal and professional goals, and connect you to resources across the UW–Madison campus.

    Incoming students should reach out to CALS Academic Affairs to direct your questions. Current UW–Madison students should schedule with their assigned advisor using Starfish.

    CALS Academic Affairs

    116 Agricultural Hall
    1450 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706

    academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu
    (608) 262-3003