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A biology education equips students with foundational knowledge applicable to diverse career paths. Those pursuing biology degrees may advance into healthcare professions like medicine, dentistry, nursing, or public health, while others opt for environmental law or scientific careers. The Biology Department establishes a strong foundation for exploring these various professional directions.
Department faculty actively create research opportunities for biology students. Learners can engage in faculty-led investigations spanning evolutionary studies, animal behavior, cellular biology, developmental processes, and neurological sciences. The department fosters independent student research, with faculty guiding experimental design and implementation. Some students achieve publication or present findings at domestic and global conferences.
Biology graduates earn a Bachelor of Science degree, with options to continue education through Master of Science, Master of Natural Science, or doctoral programs.
Numerous biology alumni extend their education through graduate studies, pursuing advanced degrees in dental medicine, medical fields, environmental sciences, and veterinary medicine.
Career pathways include: university positions, hospital roles, private practice, government agencies, veterinary facilities, teaching positions, lab technician roles, general medical practice
Dental professionals, biotechnology specialists
The biology graduate program originated shortly after the University of Oklahoma's establishment, with OU's inaugural Ph.D. conferred in biology. Today, the program boasts global recognition in ecological systematics, animal behavior, neuroscience, physiology, and genetic/cellular research, supporting approximately 50 graduate scholars.
Our doctoral program aims to equip students for impactful careers in academia, biomedicine, environmental sectors, or government organizations. We particularly value our exceptional graduate instruction and history of cultivating accomplished researchers. Our inclusive, cooperative environment promotes innovative, cross-disciplinary investigation. State-of-the-art facilities support field research, molecular studies, microscopic analysis, computational biology, quantitative methods, and physiological research, complemented by partnerships with OU's Biological Station, the Sam Noble Museum, and Oklahoma Biological Survey.