Biology majors take on life, from the most elemental chemical and physical basis of an organism to the vast and complex interconnection of living things. Biologists explore the genetic structures of microbes and the complicated workings of large ecosystems. Today, biologists are making stunning strides in areas like genetic research and biotechnology, achieving life-altering advances at an amazing pace - and raising tough, intriguing ethical questions.

Southern provides students with the solid foundation in knowledge and skills needed to build their own exciting careers in biology, combined with the focus of a strong liberal arts background. Whether your career goals run to teaching, research, medicine, marine ecology, entomology, or the lives of plants, Southern's program can get you well on your way.

As a biology student at Southern, you can either zero in on one of seven established areas of concentration, or you can devise your own program and explore an area of study that intrigues you. Of course, students who want to teach secondary school biology benefit from the comprehensive program offered in conjunction with Southern's School of Education. And, qualified students who have set their sights on the medical profession can rely on Southern's Premedical, Predental, and Preveterinary Medical Committee for expert guidance.

Students explore the living laboratory of Long Island Sound, with its comple xarray of natural ecosystems, organisms, habitats, and environmental challenges virtually at their doorstep.

Students examine the "big questions" of biology, those that deal with gene structure and its potential abnormalities. You'll study gene cloning, and all aspects of the analysis of DNA structure and functioning.

Students whose primary interest is working with plants choose this concentration, which covers in great depth and detail plant biology, including their basic structures, evolutionary significance, and relationships to other organisms.

Students develop a solid grounding in biological principles and research techniques, with a special emphasis on field natural history, ecology, and marine/aquatic biology.

Students examine microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses - their structure, genetics, how they interact with their environment, and their role in human health. Also covered is advanced cell biology and biochemistry.

Students focus on the essential and characteristic life processes, characteristics and functions of plants and animals, including, cell biology and anatomy.