Biochemistry to plant biology
 | BiochemistryStudents majoring in biochemistry learn about macromolecular structure and function, metabolism, molecular biology, signal transduction and protein biophysics, and receive an exceptional grounding in chemistry. Students also have opportunities to work in faculty labs to gain hands-on research experience. more |
 | BiologyStudents majoring in biology gain a broad understanding of the fundamental nature and characteristics of living things – from molecules to ecosystems – and the ways in which they interact. As part of a large research university, biology students have many opportunities to work alongside faculty on basic research with implications for the environment, human health and more. more |
 | Ecology, evolution, and behaviorEcology, evolution and behavior students study a range of topics from evolutionary adaptations of plants and animals to animal behavior with world-class faculty such as renowned ecologist David Tilman. They have unique opportunities to gain field biology experience at the college’s two field stations: Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories and Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve. more |
 | Genetics, cell biology and developmentStudents majoring in genetics, cell biology and development learn about the genetic and cellular basis of life, and about how a fertilized egg develops into a complete organism. Faculty from the College of Biological Sciences and the U of M Medical School teach courses within the major and students have opportunities to participate in research relating to genetics, genomics, and cell and developmental biology. more |
 | MicrobiologyMicrobiology majors examine the nature and activities of microorganisms, the distinctive microscopic life forms that recycle the elements in aquatic, atmospheric and soil environments. Majoring in microbiology prepares students for graduate study or professional work in microbiology with applications in industry, agriculture, and medicine. more |
 | NeuroscienceThe neuroscience major is designed to provide a foundation in the brain and behavior. Neuroscience majors explore how we perceive, move, think and remember at the nerve cell and molecular levels with an emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of the subject. Many participate in hands-on research alongside world-class faculty from the College of Biological Sciences and the U of M Medical School. more |
 | Plant BiologyStudents majoring in plant biology gain an understanding of the plant sciences from the molecular to the ecosystem levels and algae to fungi. They study a range of topics from the structure, function, development, classification, evolution, distribution, and importance of plants to the molecular basis of plant evolution and development to the impact of plants on human civilizations. more |
