Biological Sciences

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The study of living matter in all its diverse forms

A commitment to academic rigor, service, inclusivity, collaboration, economic development, sustainability and good stewardship of institutional resources.
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Why Biology?

Biological Sciences and Biomedical Sciences majors train in the broad spectrum of life sciences. Students prepare for careers as lab technicians, conservation scientists or foresters, microbiologists, zoologists or wildlife scientists, environmental technicians, occupational health specialists, and much more. Many go on to pursue graduate study through WMU's masters and doctoral programs in these sciences.
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Our Department

Welcome to our department!

Western Michigan University embraces collaboration and leverages resources to offer academic programs that are responsive to the needs of all students and society. In the Department of Biological Sciences undergraduates, graduate students and faculty collaborate on real-world applications through laboratory research, publications and fieldwork.

Assistance

Need Assistance?

The department and college are available during normal business hours to get you answers in a timely manner.
Email the Chair, Dr. Rossbach
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Experiential Learning

Experiential Learning at WMU

We offer students hands-on experiences in life science research in a broad range of biological and biomedical sciences areas: Cell and tissue engineering Cell and tissue regeneration Consequences of human activity on ecosystems Developmental biology Ecology and ecosystem services Environmental biology Evolutionary biology Impacts of climate change on living organisms Immunology and virology Neuroscience Microbiology and microbial ecology Restoration ecology and management of native plants These experiential learning opportunities allow students to hone their skills in effective teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving and communication using oral, written and digital formats. We also generously support students who apply to present at national conferences as part of their coursework.
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Biology careers can lead you to study living organisms to help develop biological knowledge and understanding of living processes for a number of different purposes, including treatment of disease and sustaining the natural environment. We are convinced that the skills learned at WMU prepare you for any career you desire.
— Dr. Silvia Rossbach, Chair

career outcomes

97%

of grads are employed or continuing their education.

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3,124

from our programs as of 2024-2025

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95%

of Biological/Biomedical Sciences grads are working in a field directly related to their degrees

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Publications & Research

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Faculty Research
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2026 newsletter coming soon

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Publications

Upcoming Events

Each academic year, graduate students in our programs participate in graduate-level seminars featuring accomplished scholars who come to campus for presentations. Students engage with them in weekly talks and have the opportunity to network during a provided lunch.