We live on a truly miraculous planet – the perfect combination of breathable air, liquid water and the only known home to living organisms. Biologists study Earth’s life in all its forms, from bacteria to horses and everything in between. They seek to understand how living things came to exist, how they function, what they do, and how they’re impacted by external factors. Because of biologists, we have a better understanding of the planet we call home.

As animals’ lives improve, so does human quality of life, and the availability of nutritious food on our tables. Animal geneticists work to determine which traits are most desirable – such as greater resistance to disease, or higher milk output – then help to promote those traits through breeding programs.

The natural world depends upon ongoing discovery and specialists to lead conservation efforts and protect the environment. Individuals passionate about these sustainability efforts may follow the zoology and wildlife degree path to become stewards for the planet and its inhabitants. Students pursuing this degree pathway will learn biological, sociological, economical and ecological principles in combination with coursework related to wildlife research and management. Program graduates will go on to find solutions that help modern society coexist with the natural world in a variety of different scientific roles and organizations.

From the farm to the rainforest, to companion and ocean animals and beyond — our planet is home to a vast array of animal species. Students interested in the study of animal healthcare may consider pursuing a doctorate degree in veterinary medicine. This advanced degree focuses on the study of animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, management and medicine. Coursework may include pharmacology, neuroscience, toxicology, pathology, immunology, epidemiology, as well as clinical rotations. Graduates who earn their doctorate in veterinary medicine may pursue careers in zoos, private practice, public health, research or in conservation.

Long-term sustainability continues to become a top priority at both individual and organizational levels– from our homes to commerce, agriculture and the government. Environmental and sustainability students will examine environmental and sustainability challenges from all angles – how they arise, are represented, researched, managed and prevented. Coursework may include studies in environmental science, data analysis, agriculture, sustainability and society and environmental policy. Students can look forward to affecting positive change for environmental sustainability through careers in environmental science, social responsibility, parks and recreation management, the non-profit sector and government agencies.

Bioenergy and Environmental science students research and study the effects of both natural and unnatural processes and interactions on the natural world. Program graduates will be equipped to find and pursue sustainable solutions to pressing environmental issues. Their research and understanding will contribute to better long-term management of our planet’s resources.

From bacteria to blue whales, it’s easy to marvel at the vast diversity of living organisms across the planet. Students of biology study living organisms and their interactions with the environment—from molecular to environmental—genetics to zoology. There are a variety of concentrations and specializations available, enabling graduates to pursue careers in a wide range of industries, including agriculture, education, healthcare, research and the environment.

Biomedical engineering students can look forward to careers that enhance and advance healthcare – from diagnosis and treatment, to equipment and product development. The field of biomedical engineering connects the knowledge of biology, engineering and mathematical principles to understand and apply solutions in biological and health systems. Students will focus on concepts including body motion, body tissues and the transportation of matter across cell membranes.

The area of biochemistry and molecular biology exists at the intersection of biology and chemistry—arguably one of the most cutting-edge and influential current areas of science. Biochemistry and molecular biology programs introduce students to the chemistry of living organisms and techniques used to analyze the composition and function of biomolecules. Graduates may pursue careers in the medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural research and chemical industries.

Every material in existence is made up of matter — including the human body. Chemistry is involved in everything we do, from growing and cooking food to cleaning our homes and bodies to launching a space shuttle. Students pursuing a chemistry degree will study these processes, as well as the composition, structure, interaction and energy of substances at atomic and molecular levels. Depending upon career goals, students can then specialize their studies to focus on analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic or organic chemistry and/or physical chemistry.

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