College of Science
Mailing Address: 257 S. 1400 E., Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0840
Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Website: www.biology.utah.edu
Phone: 801-581-6517
Email: info@biology.utah.edu
Department Chair: Fred Adler
Undergraduate Director: Julie Hollien
Graduate Director: Colin Dale
Undergraduate Academic Advising Coordinator: Mark Campbell
Graduate Advisor: Shannon Nielsen
Contact for Prospective Students: Biology Advisors, bioadvising@utah.edu
Mission Statement
We are a large and collaborative community studying all aspects of biology. We provide exceptional opportunities to learn, work, and collaborate across many levels of biological organization and styles of research in the heart of Mountain America. The School is committed to studying the full range of biological science as a collaborative, supportive and cohesive community. Whether you’re a transfer student, first-generation college student, graduate student, or postdoctoral fellow looking for that perfect classroom or research experience with a mentor, the School of Biological Sciences wants to hear from you.
Overview
The School of Biological Sciences, one of the largest in the University, offers a wide range of courses involving field, laboratory, lecture, and library experience. Active research is in progress at most levels of biological organization, from the fine structure of cells at the molecular level to community interactions and distributions of living things on a global scale. Laboratories are well-equipped for a wide spectrum of modern biological research.
The biology curriculum is designed to:
Prepare undergraduate and graduate students for professional careers in biology,
Provide basic training for students who will enter graduate or professional fields related to biology, such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and others,
Offer foundational biology courses for allied health disciplines, and
Provide courses of general interest for the University and community.
Courses are available in the following general areas: biochemistry and molecular biology, cellular biology, genetics and developmental biology, neuroscience, physiology and organismal biology, ecology, ecosystems, and evolutionary biology.
Types of Degrees
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science
Minors
Master of Science
Doctor of Philosophy
Undergraduate Programs
Biology majors participate in a rigorous academic experience that includes opportunities for laboratory and field learning, undergraduate research, and preparation for careers in the life sciences and related professional pathways.
Student Advising
Biology majors are encouraged to meet with the Biology Advisor early in their academic careers and at least yearly thereafter.
Advising is available in JTB 220 and CSC 240/214.
Phone: 801-587-7786
Email: bioadvising@utah.edu
The Preprofessional Advising Office is the best source for information about preparation for admission to schools of chiropractic, dentistry, medicine, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician's assistant, and veterinary medicine.
Financial Assistance
Various scholarships are available to qualified applicants. Contact the school advising office for information.
Graduate Program
The School of Biological Sciences offers exceptional opportunities to learn, work, and collaborate across levels of biological organization and styles of research. Faculty research interests span the complete spectrum of biological phenomena and disciplines, from biochemistry to global environmental change. Graduate students engage in research-intensive training with close faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration, with individualized advising that supports student progress and professional development. This breadth of research interests has led to development of two focused, yet overlapping, graduate training programs: Molecular, Cellular, and Evolutionary Biology (MCEB) and Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology (EEOB). Course requirements are structured to individual needs.
BS/MS Program
The School of Biological Sciences' BS/MS Program makes it possible for students to get both a bachelors and a master's degree in five years. Starting to take graduate-level courses during the senior year is what makes it possible for students to complete the Master's degree in just one additional year.
Financial Assistance
Doctoral students receive financial support from teaching and research assistantships, training grants, and fellowships. Doctoral students are guaranteed support for up to five years pending satisfactory progress in the program. International students must pass a University Teaching workshop before being allowed to teach. Tuition is paid by the Graduate School or the research advisor for five years (for students in the Ph.D. program). Teaching assistantships are not available for M.S. students, though such students may be supported by research assistantships.
Additional Information
Scholarship/Fellowship Opportunities:
For undergraduate scholarships opportunities, learn more at: https://www.biology.utah.edu/scholarships-financial-aid/
For additional university-wide scholarships opportunities, please visit the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid: https://financialaid.utah.edu
For graduate funding opportunities, learn more at: https://www.biology.utah.edu/graduate-student-resources/
Financial Aid/Support Information:
For undergraduate financial-aid, learn more at: https://www.biology.utah.edu/scholarships-financial-aid/
For additional university-wide financial aid, please visit the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid: https://financialaid.utah.edu/
Facilities, Centers, or Labs:
In addition to Centers and Field Stations, the School of Biological Sciences provides access to a wide array of facilities and resources that enhance research and educational opportunities. The School itself resides in a complex of biology and science buildings on main campus near President’s Circle. Learn more at https://www.biology.utah.edu/facilities/
Professional/Career Opportunities:
A biology degree from University of Utah, whether broad-based or emphasis-specific, prepares students for a wide variety of career paths. Graduates pursue opportunities in health care and allied health professions, biotechnology and biomedical research, agriculture and food systems, environmental consulting, public lands and wildlife management, conservation, education, and quality control industries. The degree also provides excellent preparation for advanced study, including Master’s and PhD programs, professional schools (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine), and other specialized graduate training. With its strong scientific foundation and flexible career applications, biology equips students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in many rapidly growing and impactful fields.