Undergraduate Biology
A number of biology degree options are available for undergraduates at The University of Texas at Austin. Students in these programs are served by the Biology Instruction Office (BIO), by the Biosciences Advising Center and by faculty in our department through their classes.
Consult the College of Natural Sciences Degree Checklist or the Interactive Degree Audit to learn more.
Learn more about majors and courses
Options
Biology majors have several options led from the Department of Integrative Biology.
Computational Biology
Mathematical biology, computational biology, and bioinformatics have exploded in recent years thanks to large and increasingly complex biological data sets, advances in nonlinear dynamics, and an increasing appreciation for the utility of models and there is an urgent need for integrative education at an early stage. This new degree plan in Computational Biology is designed to give these students both a comprehensive biology curriculum and an essential foundation in mathematics, computer science, and statistics. Graduates will be highly competitive for quantitative jobs in the biotechnology industry and top-tier medical and graduate schools.
Ecology, Evolution and Behavior
This option provides students with an education in ecological studies and biodiversity and also emphasizes field experience. The degree requires courses in ecology and evolution as well as advanced courses in physiology, behavior, and biodiversity. Students have the option of tailoring their course and lab requirements in some of these areas to emphasize animal, plant, or ecological studies. Graduates may take positions with government agencies, consulting firms, or continue with graduate studies for academic careers at colleges, universities, museums, or other research organizations.
Genetics and Genomics
Students focus on genetics, genomics, molecular biology, and developmental biology with the integration of bioinformatics and computational biology. The integration of lab work in genetics and either cell biology or developmental biology helps students apply course concepts in a research setting. Students have the option to further their interests in a series of electives related to microbiology, molecular genetics, or molecular genetics and medicine. Graduates are prepared for careers in genetic counseling, medicine and research.
Human Biology
Although the title might indicate a focus on the biology of the human body, students in this degree plan explore a much wider range of topics including human evolution, genomics, genetic and hormonal control of behavior, and impact on the environment. Students in this degree plan receive an interdisciplinary education about the relationship between biology and society. This option requires 19 hours of cross-disciplinary studies in the fields of statistics, physics, biochemistry, and organic chemistry. Additionally, students take a 3-hour course specific to the human biology major as well as courses in the following areas:
- Evolution
- Genetics, genomics, and computational biology
- Cellular, developmental, and molecular biology
- Ecology, environment, and health
- Anatomy and/or physiology
Graduates are especially prepared for careers in research, medicine, law, or public affairs.
Environmental Science
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science degree program (the “EVS Program”) is an interdisciplinary degree program in Environmental Science offered collaboratively by The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Natural Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, and College of Liberal Arts. The EVS Program is unique for its innovative, interdisciplinary nature and its extensive use of hands-on experience and professional preparation to create tomorrow’s environmental scientists. Learn more about other sustainability and environment undergraduate degree programs at UT Austin.
Find more information about EVS advising and the EVS program.
Other Biology Undergraduate Degrees
A number of other biology degrees are available for students interested in general biology, integrative biology, medical laboratory science, biology teaching, marine science and neuroscience. Find details on the website of the Biology Instruction Office, including:
Bachelor of Science and Arts in Biology
This degree, offered through the Biology Instruction Office, provides a well-rounded education in natural sciences with room to explore other interests in the humanities. The BSA permits students to take advanced courses from a broad spectrum of the biological sciences, including:
- Cellular, developmental and molecular biology
- Genetics, genomics and computational biology
- Physiology, neuroscience and behavior
- Ecology, evolution and biodiversity
The emphasis on a balanced program of study between biology courses enables students to explore additional academic interests from across the University. This degree prepares students for a variety of careers including, but not limited to, the health professions, business, law, and academia.
Freshman Research Stream
A number of faculty investigators affiliated with the Biodiversity Center oversee research streams affiliated with the College's award-winning Freshman Research Initiative (FRI). FRI students get to explore unanswered questions relevant to biodiversity.
Volunteer
The Texas Field Station Network as well as the Biodiversity Collections rely on student volunteers. It's a great opportunity to get exposure to research as it happens, meet scientists, and partake in activities including but not limited to outreach events.
Bioinformatics and Biocomputing courses
The Center for Biomedical Research Support (CBRS) offers short courses during the year for those wishing to learn about data-intensive technologies. While these are typically attended by graduate students and postdocs, some courses may be appropriate for your skill levels and educational goals.