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:

Healthcare

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

Biotechnology & Research

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

Environmental

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