College of Arts & Sciences

Biology

From Microscopic Wonders to Ecosystems

The Western New England Biology major can lead to many career paths, from pursuing graduate degrees in the life sciences or in health-related fields to research or teaching. Our rigorous and engaging biology curriculum focuses on connecting theoretical principles to laboratory practice. You’ll enjoy learning and working in the classrooms and laboratories of our Center for the Sciences and Pharmacy, a $40 million facility that provides students with the opportunity to utilize sophisticated state-of-the-art technology and instrumentation. Our distinguished Biology faculty also provides excellent opportunities for our students to actively participate in their research projects.

Why Choose Biology?

The 21st century has been called the Biology Century. That's because biology, the study of life, is the key to solving many of the problems that will face humanity in the coming decades. Everything from new cancer treatments, to increasing crop yield for food production, to fighting infectious disease, has its genesis in the study of biology. The Biology major is excellent preparation for medical, dental, or veterinary programs. Choosing a career in research can help you make an impact on health and the environment. You may also pursue a degree in Secondary Education to become a classroom teacher.

$96,460 Median Pay for Biological Scientists (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2022)

98% Class of ’22 employed/attending graduate or professional school within 6 months of graduation

What to Expect Biology

“My time here at Western New England has not only increased my personal confidence but it's also increased the confidence I have for my future career. There are a wide range of things that I could be doing with my future and my career. I don't know where the wind's going to take me in the end but regardless I still feel very prepared for wherever I end up.”–Miranda Holhut ’24

What Will You Study?

At Western New England University, you will get a comprehensive education in general and molecular biology, with a focus on biochemistry, cell biology, organismal form and function, evolution, and ecology. Specifically, you'll gain a solid understanding of the basic structure and functioning of cells, organisms, and populations, including basic evolutionary and ecological principles. By emphasizing laboratory work, you'll study a diverse range of scientific topics, from cell biology to organic chemistry, as well as a general liberal arts curriculum. Working in the labs of the Center for the Sciences and Pharmacy, you will gain practical experience with instrumentation and methodologies used in laboratory work, a crucial aspect of the Biology major.

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Curriculum Department Combined Degrees Minor

Unique Learning Opportunities

Internships and Field Work

The Biology major offers some exciting internships for qualified students. Students have interned with the Western Massachusetts State Police Crime Lab, one student developed methods of enabling bloody fingerprints to be detected in crime scenes that had been painted over; Con-Test Analytical Laboratory, an environmental testing firm that works with soil samples, learning how to set up and prepare testing procedures; the Springfield Science Museum, working as an instructor; and Baystate Medical Center, assisting doctors with a research project through patient interviews. Other internship sites include New England Orthopedic Surgeons, FloDesign Sonics, Hampden County Superior Court Probation Office, and Caring Health Center, Inc.

Study Abroad: Become a Global Citizen

Today’s workforce needs professionals who see the big picture. The College of Arts and Sciences will help you to become a student of world cultures and histories as they relate to your studies while making valuable contributions in your explorations. Whether you participate in a faculty-led summer seminar course or spend a semester at an international university, the experience will broaden your horizons and help you compete in the global landscape.

Study Abroad

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