Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
Our department brings together undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and faculty members united by their passion for biology and the natural world. We explore everything from cellular biology to ecosystem studies, offering comprehensive education across biological disciplines. Our mission is to cultivate future leaders in scientific research, academic instruction, and community engagement, supported by state-of-the-art facilities for lab, field, and computational work.
Program goals include: (1) mastering fundamental biological concepts while specializing in a chosen area; (2) gaining proficiency in research methodology, data interpretation, and effective communication of findings; and (3) preparing for professional careers in biological sciences. The graduate program requires completion of at least 30 credit hours post-bachelor's degree, with 21 credits at the advanced level. We offer both thesis and non-thesis Master of Science options, as well as doctoral programs, with faculty expertise spanning biological disciplines and organismal classification.
Nature's diversity inspires our commitment to fostering an inclusive departmental community. We embrace and support differences in race, ethnicity, religion, culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, immigration status, ability, life experiences, career aspirations, and scientific viewpoints. Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our department's ethos, and we actively work to ensure all voices are valued. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, composed of faculty, staff, and students, helps guide these efforts to welcome all who wish to join our biological sciences community.
Equity stands as another cornerstone of our department, acknowledging that our members come from varied backgrounds with unequal opportunities. We recognize that systemic barriers have historically limited access to scientific careers for underrepresented groups. Our department is committed to leveling the playing field by providing equitable resources for students and professionals at all levels - from undergraduates to faculty - across all aspects of our work including coursework, research, mentorship, funding opportunities, and career preparation.
Baccalaureate Degree: The applicant must provide an official transcript showing that a bachelor’s degree was awarded by an accredited college or university. If you are a UofM undergraduate student applying to Graduate School at UofM, you do not need to request that an official transcript be sent to Graduate Admissions. This office has access to your transcript. In addition, transcripts from any other college or university attended may be requested. Only transcripts received directly from an issuing institution are considered official. Personal copies are not acceptable as official documents.
GPA: The applicant must have earned an acceptable grade point average, typically a minimum of 2.5 on a scale of 4.0, but departments may make exceptions for students whose overall GPA does not adequately reflect their ability to succeed in their chosen field.
English proficiency test scores accepted by the University: