Biology Major & Minor
The Biology major is designed to help students develop a strong and broad background in biological science.
Students may choose an Area of Emphasis while earning their B.S. in Biology that provides more indepth coursework in one of three areas: Cell/Molecular Biology & Infectious Disease, Ecology & Evolution or Physiology & Organismal Biology. If a student wishes to focus within an area of emphasis, the student’s Senior Capstone Experience (SCE) must also be designed with that focus in mind. The Biology Department also seeks to emphasize to its majors that the discipline of biology is intimately related to many disciplines outside of the sciences. As part of the major, students will gain an appreciation of the impact of biology on history, and they will appreciate the many philosophical and ethical questions that have biological underpinnings. Students are encouraged to find additional connections—to the humanities, to the social sciences, and to the other science fields—as they pursue their education.
Ready to declare a Biology Major or Minor? Fill out the declaration form below and then contact Dr.%20Rinehimer or Dr.%20Connaughton!
Why Biology at Washington College?
93% of our graduates are either persuing advanced degrees or working in science, health, or education. Here are just a few of the reasons our biology program may be right for you:
You’ll gain a greater appreciation of science as a process.
The emphasis here is on discovery-based learning, providing the knowledge and skills you’ll need to pursue vocations or advanced degrees in biology-related fields, including biochemistry, biopsychology, environmental science and medicine.You’ll find a real sense of community.
Small classes are taught in a state-of-the-art facility by professors (not teaching assistants!) who embrace their responsibility to recognize and encourage your potential. Biology students are typically bright, highly motivated, high achievers—just like you!
You can conduct significant research.
Whether you choose to stay on campus for our summer undergraduate research program, or pursue internship or research positions elsewhere, you’ll get plenty of real-lab experience. The senior research project we require of every major demonstrates your theoretical and practical knowledge.
Additionally, our students are invited to present and publish their work at professional conferences, are selected for internships at top institutions, and are admitted into some of the best post-graduate programs in the country.
Our location presents wonderful opportunities.
Washington College is just three blocks from one of the most beautiful rivers of the Chesapeake Bay. Students use the Chester River and the surrounding environs as a natural laboratory for scientific investigation.
Alumni Spotlights
Emily is a 2018 graduate who participated in the 3:2 Nursing Program with University of Maryland School of Nursing, where she has earned her MSN.
Josh is a 2019 graduate who participated in summer research and went on to work at the NIH.
Julie is a 2017 graduate who participated in our John S. Toll Summer Research program with Dr. Carr. Julie went on to pursue a Master's degree in entomology from Penn State University.