Columbia University

What you'll study

The Biology major at Columbia covers the full spectrum of the life sciences, from molecules and cells to organisms, populations and ecosystems. Students typically begin with introductory laboratory courses that establish practical skills and core concepts, then move on to more specialised work in areas such as genetics, cell and developmental biology, neurobiology, physiology, ecology and evolution, and biochemistry.

Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Introductory biology and laboratory sequences for majors (molecular/cellular and organismal/ecological perspectives)
• Genetics, cell biology and developmental biology
• Biochemistry and molecular biology
• Ecology, evolution and organismal physiology
• Quantitative and computational biology, bioinformatics and statistics for biologists
• Advanced electives and seminars on topics such as neurobiology, immunology, synthetic biology and conservation biology
• Independent research projects, honours thesis options, and faculty‑mentored laboratory work

Students may choose between different degree pathways (for example BA or BS tracks), with the BS path typically involving additional laboratory coursework or a research thesis. Coursework is often complemented by internships, cross‑disciplinary electives (e.g. computer science, engineering, public health) and opportunities to participate in summer research programmes or collaborations with Columbia’s medical center and affiliated research institutes.

Entry requirements

Admission to Columbia is highly selective and prospective students must demonstrate strong academic preparation and intellectual curiosity. Typical preparation includes high‑level coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics (including calculus), and often physics. Admissions decisions consider overall academic record, letters of recommendation, personal statement, extracurricular involvement and evidence of initiative in scientific activities such as research, science competitions or relevant work/volunteer experience.

International applicants will need to meet Columbia’s requirements for secondary school completion and demonstrate English language proficiency if required. Specific credit or placement for advanced secondary study (for example A‑levels, IB, Advanced Placement) is evaluated by Columbia and may affect first‑year course placement.

Career prospects

A Biology degree from Columbia prepares graduates for a wide range of careers. Common destinations include:

• Graduate study and research (PhD) in biological sciences and related fields
• Clinical and health professions (medical, dental, pharmacy, physician assistant and allied health programmes) supported by pre‑health advising
• Careers in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, including research associate and development roles
• Public health, epidemiology and global health organisations
• Environmental science, conservation and policy roles with government agencies and NGOs
• Data science, bioinformatics and computational biology roles that make use of quantitative training
• Science communication, education and policy positions

Graduates often combine laboratory experience and internships gained while at Columbia with the university’s career services and alumni network to enter competitive postgraduate programmes and employment in private and public sectors.

Why study at Columbia University

Columbia offers a distinctive combination of a strong liberal‑arts core curriculum and access to world‑class biomedical and environmental research facilities. Students benefit from proximity to Columbia University Irving Medical Center, numerous affiliated research institutes and a large community of basic and clinical investigators, which creates abundant opportunities for mentored research and internships.

Located in New York City, the programme also provides extensive professional connections, partnership opportunities with hospitals, industry and public agencies, and a diverse urban environment for fieldwork and applied projects. Small upper‑level seminars, faculty accessibility, and structured pre‑health and career advising help students translate rigorous classroom and laboratory training into research positions, further study and a variety of careers in the life sciences.