Q & A

Is biology for me?
To find out, ask yourself: Am I curious about living organisms and how they work? Do I pay attention to details? Am I patient? Do I enjoy lab projects, and am I willing to invest time in my projects and reports? Do I enjoy my studies in science, and have I done well in math and English? Do I like to solve problems? Do I enjoy working with others on projects and exchanging ideas and skills?

What degree should I earn?
The type of degree you earn is not as important as which area of biology you study. Students who plan to go on for a graduate degree in science or to work in a scientific field usually earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.). Students, such as premedical students, who want to study science as part of a general liberal arts education, often earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). The B.A. requires four semesters of a foreign language and more social science and humanities courses.

How Do I Get Into the Biological Sciences?
Fill out a major declaration form in the biology office as soon as possible. If you plan to major in one of the biological sciences, you should meet with a biology advisor during your first semester so you can plan your schedule.

With so many biology programs in the country, why should I choose KU?
Your Overall Education
You'll be enriched simply by being a part of KU. The University's excellent faculty and rich curriculum have attracted national attention. Students and teachers from around the world will introduce you to diverse cultures and view-points. You'll choose from hundereds of lectures, plays, concerts, and activities that will make your undergraduate years worthwhile and enjoyable.

Research Opportunities
Close ties among departments give students a research boost not found in many universities. This cooperation gives access to state-of-the-art equipment and a stimulating fellowship of discovery. The 560-acre John H. Nelson Environmental Study Area is available to independent study students, and those who qualify can study in San Jose; Costa Rica, through KU's part in the Organization for Tropical Studies. Field Research Opportunities are valuable experience for students in certain areas of Biology. Many field stations around the country (and in Canada and Mexico) offer summer opportunities for research and courses outside of KU. Many of them have field classes for undergraduates and some of them offer research internships. Consult this online directory for details.

The Faculty
Faculty members work on the cutting edge of research in such areas as AIDS, genetics, the environment, and new drugs. They have attracted many state, federal, and private grants. The Division of Biological Sciences has strong professional ties in industry and government and attracts graduate students from around the world. You will study with these talented assistants in your labs.

The Resource Center
The Biology Teaching Resource Center in Haworth Hall is a hands-on information and learning facility. You'll have access to computers, programs, printers, microscopes, and graphics. The center's staff will help you use these tools.

The Biology Club
The KU Biology Club is a group of undergraduates who share a common interest in the study of Biology. Members plan to enter one of the many professional fields open to Biology graduates. Several of these students are working in faculty research labs on projects of interest to them.