Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at the University of Chicago gives students strong opportunities to move beyond classroom learning and gain real research experience. Students build practical skills through laboratory-based coursework, quantitative biology, computational approaches, and independent research. A major part of the BS is the opportunity to work directly with Biological Sciences Division research faculty and complete an original research project that leads to a required bachelor’s thesis. Students can also access advanced research facilities and technologies covering areas such as genomics, bioinformatics, microscopy, proteomics, mass spectrometry, cell and tissue research, and biological imaging.

Students can develop their practical and research skills through:

• Required undergraduate research: BS students complete BIOS 28900 Undergraduate Bachelor of Science Research and participate in research under the guidance of Biological Sciences Division faculty.

• Bachelor’s thesis: Students conduct an independent research project and prepare a BS thesis, giving them experience in designing research, analysing results, and communicating scientific findings.

• Laboratory learning: Biological Sciences courses provide opportunities to apply biological concepts through practical laboratory work and experimental investigation.

• Computational biology: Students interested in computational approaches can follow the Computational Biology track and develop skills for using computational methods to investigate biological questions.

• Quantitative modelling: Courses such as BIOS 20151 Introduction to Quantitative Modeling in Biology and BIOS 26210 Mathematical Methods for Biological Sciences I develop quantitative and analytical skills for biological research.

• Genomics and bioinformatics: Research facilities include genomics, Sanger sequencing, and bioinformatics resources that support modern biological data generation and analysis.

• Advanced microscopy: Students working in relevant research areas can benefit from facilities supporting integrated light microscopy and advanced electron microscopy.

• Cell and tissue research: Research resources include facilities for organoid and primary culture research, cellular and tissue processing, and human tissue research.

• Molecular research tools: Students can be exposed to advanced techniques and infrastructure in areas such as proteomics, mass spectrometry, metabolomics, and biomolecular nuclear magnetic resonance through relevant research activities.

• Infectious-disease research: The university has specialised BSL-3 research facilities at the Cummings Life Sciences Center and Howard T. Ricketts Laboratory for approved infectious-disease research.

• Research institutes and centres: Students can engage with research taking place through institutes and centres such as the Duchossois Family Institute and the University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center.

• Marine Biological Laboratory opportunities: The program provides opportunities for students to take courses, participate in internships, and undertake research at the Marine Biological Laboratory.

• Biological Sciences Learning Center: The Donnelley Biological Sciences Learning Center provides teaching laboratories, classrooms, computer-based biological experimentation facilities, and a research greenhouse.

• Research-focused environment: The combination of faculty-led research, specialised facilities, laboratory learning, computational work, and the required thesis gives BS students a strong foundation for further study and research-oriented careers.

The Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at the University of Chicago prepares students for a wide range of opportunities in research, healthcare, biotechnology, bioinformatics, public health, and other life-science fields. With advanced biology coursework, dedicated research experience, and a required BS thesis, students graduate with practical research and analytical skills that can support both employment and further study. The degree can lead toward roles such as Biological Researcher, Clinical Research Professional, Bioinformatics Professional, and Life Sciences Professional.

Students can build their career through the following opportunities:

• Career advising: University of Chicago Career Advancement provides specialised career guidance for Biological Sciences students, including individual advising and support through UChicago Handshake to help students explore career options and find relevant opportunities.

• Internships: Students can gain professional experience through internship opportunities, including the Jeff Metcalf Internship Program, helping them apply their academic knowledge in real workplace settings.

• Research opportunities: Students can gain experience in university research laboratories working across areas such as molecular biology, computational biology, ecology, neuroscience, public health, and biomedical research.

• Required research experience: BS students complete BIOS 28900 Undergraduate Bachelor of Science Research and conduct research under the supervision of Biological Sciences Division faculty before completing their BS thesis.

• External research opportunities: Students can explore research and internship opportunities with organisations such as the Marine Biological Laboratory, Argonne National Laboratory, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Chicago Biomedical Consortium, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Shedd Aquarium, and Lincoln Park Zoo.

• Employer and alumni connections: Career Advancement provides opportunities to meet employers and alumni through career events, networking activities, and career exploration programs.

• Life-science career support: Students can access career resources covering fields such as biotechnology, bioinformatics, neuroscience, pharmacology, and data-focused life sciences.

• Summer research: Students can pursue research experiences in areas including genetics and genomics, biomedical imaging, developmental neurobiology, ecology and evolution, quantitative biology, public health, and translational medicine.

• Medical school preparation: Students interested in healthcare can receive specialised support through the university's healthcare career resources. UChicago reports a 91% medical school acceptance rate for UChicago candidates.

• Graduate outcomes: University-wide, UChicago reports that 98% of the Class of 2026 are expected to have secured post-college offers by graduation, covering employment and graduate-school opportunities. This figure is university-wide and is not specific to Biological Sciences BS graduates.

• Salary information: The official university sources do not provide a specific salary figure for graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, so a program-specific salary figure cannot be confirmed.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the BS in Biological Sciences, students can continue into master's and doctoral-level study or professional programs in areas such as biological sciences, biomedical sciences, computational biology, public health, and healthcare. The strong research component, advanced coursework, and required thesis provide valuable preparation for students planning to pursue research-intensive graduate programs or professional education.