
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:
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.
- Biology, Bachelor of Science Degree (College of Agricultural and Life Sciences)
- Biology, Bachelor of Arts Degree (College of Letters & Science)
- Biology, Bachelor of Science Degree (College of Letters & Science)
Your CALS Experience

Learn outside the lecture hall
Build your resume, explore career paths, and help solve real world problems with faculty across campus. You can build valuable bench or field research skills outside the classroom with bioscience-focused research or internships.
Study the origins of life on Earth, the impact of SSRIs on hormone signaling during lactation, the genetics behind fin regeneration in zebrafish, and so much more.
Connect with fellow Biology majors
First- and second-year students can join the Biology Major Peer Mentoring Program, where you’ll be matched with a junior or senior biology student that can answer your questions on student life and share experiences.
Discover new classes, get tips on finding a research lab or internship, receive advice on the ins and outs of campus life from your mentor, and participate in social activities with other students.
Focus on your interests
Investigate a real-world problem that aligns with your interests by conducting research or choosing from capstone courses in a variety of biological fields.
Past capstone courses have explored human physiology, general ecology, developmental genetics and biology, and plant microbiomes.
Study abroad and gain global perspective
See the world and complement what you’re learning in the classroom or in the lab with a study abroad program. Study agriculture and food science in Ireland, learn about public health and hospital medicine in Argentina, explore the coral reefs in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and so much more.
You can also choose from one of UW–Madison’s many semester, summer, and short-term study abroad programs and map your study abroad experience as a biology major.
Honors Programs
Challenge and distinguish yourself with the CALS Honors Program. Dive into a subject you’re passionate about, form collaborative relationships with other Honors students, and conduct research with our top-notch faculty.
Composed of two options, Honors in Research or Honors in Major, you can customize your path of research projects and specialized coursework.
Specialize in evolutionary biology
Concentrate your studies in evolution and have it reflected on your transcript with the evolutionary biology named option. Explore evolutionary biology concepts such as adaptation, speciation, and genetics, and gain insight into careers and real-world challenges with specialized classes and a seminar.
62%
Students who participate in volunteer work
48%
Graduates who plan to continue their education
56%
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
info@biologymajor.wisc.edu
(608) 890-0677

Want to learn more about the biology major?