University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The Biology degree provides a sequence of core courses in genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution and organismal biology, complemented by quantitative and laboratory skills. Early semesters focus on foundational subjects such as introductory biology, general chemistry and calculus or statistics, while upper-level study allows specialisation in areas like molecular and cellular biology, ecology and evolution, neurobiology, developmental biology and conservation.

• Core topics: cell and molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology and physiology.
• Laboratory training: intensive wet-lab and field-based courses that develop experimental design, microscopy, molecular techniques and quantitative data analysis.
• Specialist electives: microbial biology, immunology, developmental biology, neurobiology, plant biology, conservation biology and computational biology/bioinformatics.
• Research and capstone options: semester-long independent research projects in faculty laboratories, senior seminars or honours thesis work that emphasise original investigation and scientific communication.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: access to courses and collaborative projects across the Five College Consortium and related departments such as biochemistry, environmental conservation, and computational sciences.

Entry requirements

Admission to UMass Amherst is competitive and requires a strong secondary school record. Typical successful applicants present a rigorous programme of study with high grades in science and mathematics. Specific expectations include:

• Secondary school qualifications showing strong performance in biology, chemistry and mathematics; applicants from different systems should present the closest equivalent rigorous preparation.
• Demonstrated achievement in laboratory science and quantitative courses. Completion of advanced-level science or mathematics where available is advantageous.
• Standardised tests may be considered according to the university's current admissions policies; consult admissions for the latest approach to SAT/ACT submission.
• Personal statements, recommendations and extracurricular experiences — such as laboratory internships, fieldwork, science clubs or voluntary work — help demonstrate interest and preparedness for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biology degree from UMass Amherst move into a wide range of careers. Many continue to postgraduate study (master’s, PhD or professional degrees such as medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine) while others enter the workforce directly.

• Research and laboratory roles in academic, government or industry settings, including biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Healthcare careers: preparatory pathway for medical, dental, physician assistant and allied health programmes.
• Environmental and conservation careers with NGOs, government agencies or consulting firms focusing on ecology, wildlife management and natural resource conservation.
• Biotech industry positions in quality control, regulatory affairs, technical sales and product development.
• Science education and communication roles at secondary and postsecondary levels, museums or outreach organisations.
• Emerging roles in bioinformatics and computational biology that combine biological knowledge with quantitative and data-analysis skills.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers a research-active biology department with a broad range of faculty expertise and extensive laboratory and field facilities. Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities in on-campus laboratories and field stations, and from interdisciplinary collaborations across the Five College Consortium.

• Undergraduate research: many students join faculty-led projects, gaining direct experience that strengthens both employment prospects and applications to graduate programmes.
• Facilities and resources: modern life-science laboratories, greenhouses, and nearby field sites provide practical training in laboratory and ecological methods.
• Support for careers and further study: dedicated advising for pre-health and pre-graduate students, plus internship and industry links in the Pioneer Valley and beyond.
• Vibrant campus community: a large, diverse student body and extracurricular opportunities allow students to develop leadership and communication skills alongside their scientific training.