The biology major offers students the opportunity to study the biological basis of life from a wide range of perspectives, from ecosystems to organisms to cells and molecules. A critical component of our curriculum is active, inquiry-based learning, including classroom and laboratory experiences that provide not only in-depth exposure to core concepts in biology but also development of skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, data analysis, and scientific writing.
We offer a rigorous scientific curriculum grounded in the liberal arts tradition of making connections with many areas both within and outside of the sciences, as students learn to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Please view the college catalog for a full and up-to-date list of requirements and courses for this program.
Related Majors and Minors
In addition to the biology major, there are several related majors and minors in related areas, including Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Environmental Studies and Sustainability, Neuroscience and Public Health.
Drew also offers many special programs linking work at Drew with advanced schooling, such as:
- B.A./M.D dual degree program in Medicine
- Dual degree program in Engineering and Applied Science
- Dual degree program in Environmental Management
Please note that there are specific requirements for admission to these programs and those considering cooperative programs should work closely with their advisers since early planning is important.
Opportunities for Research and Earning Your MD
The Charles A. Dana Research Institute for Scientists Emeriti (RISE) at Drew University will offer you unique opportunities to engage in undergraduate research under the supervision of retired industrial scientists. Experiential learning at its finest, RISE projects cover topic areas, including drug discovery, industrial microbiology, mathematics and more.
Drew can also put you on a path towards earning your MD. A formal articulation agreement between the College of Liberal Arts of Drew University and the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS) makes it possible for prospective first-year students to apply directly to a special, seven-year dual-degree program in medicine. Students are admitted simultaneously to both Drew and New Jersey Medical School. They then spend three years of study at Drew and four years at NJMS, completing both the BA and MD degrees in seven years.