Biology

Biology: Major 

Developing an informed understanding of the living world is an important aspect of a liberal arts education. The department offers a diverse array of courses that cover the major sub-disciplines of biology — the study of life and living organisms. These courses also explore the implications of modern biology for various social and ethical issues.

Biology at º£½ÇÉçÇø has an exceptional tradition. A high percentage of department graduates each year go on to receive advanced degrees in various areas of biology and the biomedical sciences. Classes are small and students receive individual attention from faculty members who are dedicated teachers and active scholars. Teaching approaches span from traditional lecture to discovery-oriented learning, and expose students to the use of state-of-the-art equipment in teaching and research labs. Students have opportunities to supplement coursework with research positions on campus, throughout the U.S. or overseas. They frequently co-author papers with faculty mentors and participate in presentations at regional, national, and international scientific meetings.

Program Highlights

The biology department is supported by faculty members with broad research interests, who are active scholars, and who guide students in the development of their academic plan of study. Fields of study include:

  • Cellular and molecular biology
  • Ecological, evolutionary and organismal biology
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Numerous opportunities exist that expose students to the ideas, methods and ethics of scientific research.

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Explore study abroad and study away options, including opportunities to study at sea and in the tropics.

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Connect with other majors and engage the broader campus community on aspects of biology.

Biology News

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Blog: McSweeney ’21 Eager to Show What Life is Like at º£½ÇÉçÇø
NAME Rebecca McSweeney ’21 HOMETOWN Stoughton, Massachusetts STUDIES SHE’S CONSIDERING Biology major WHY SHE CHOSE HOLY CROSS “I first heard about º£½ÇÉçÇø through a family friend. What really convinced me that º£½ÇÉçÇø was the perfect school for me, …
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107 º£½ÇÉçÇø Students Conduct Original Research Across Disciplines This Summer
This summer, 107 º£½ÇÉçÇø students conducted original, cutting-edge research through the Weiss Summer Research Program: 71 students in the natural sciences; 30 in the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts; and six in economics. The far-ranging research projects gave …
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Innovative Ensemble Combines Traditional Instruments with Electronic Music
Sitting with perfect posture in Brooks Concert Hall, Marena Ella Minelli ’17 lifted a violin to her chin and began to play, releasing beautiful streams of music with her bow. Moments later, she placed the string instrument on a chair, …