Biology is the study of life and living things from individual cells to complex organisms and ecosystems. Alfred University’s Division of Biology provides you with a diverse education in the liberal arts and a strong biological foundation for a variety of career interests. In addition to the major in Biology, the Division offers a minor in Biology. We offer a unique minor in Biological Illustration as well as a minor in Biomedical Materials (through the Kazuo Inamori School of Engineering).

Hands-on, interactive learning
The Biology Division promotes and supports hands-on, interactive learning through laboratory and field courses, inquiry-based instruction, research activities, internships, and discussions/seminars concerning modern biological research. Students at AU have many opportunities to conduct research by becoming involved in faculty research projects, or by designing their own independent research projects. Many classroom laboratory activities blossom into student-directed independent study or ARGUS projects (Alfred Research Grants for Undergraduate Students).

Equipment and facilities
The Division of Biology houses a variety of research-grade equipment including digital imaging systems, laminar flow hoods, fluorescent and phase-contrast microscopes, UV/VIS spectrophotometers, molecular biology equipment, field sampling equipment and environmental growth chambers. All facilities are available for you as a student to use with the appropriate training and supervision.

Faculty
The Division consists of six full-time faculty members, each with a different area of expertise, which is readily shared with students through active research projects. All of our faculty members hold the highest degree in their field and are committed to helping you succeed with your undergraduate education.

Prepared for success
The Biology major at AU prepares you for post-graduate study in health-related professions, graduate study in numerous biological disciplines from biotechnology to ecology, as well as for career opportunities such as secondary education and research.