Explore the Department of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programs at Carnegie Mellon University
Located within the Mellon College of Science, the Biological Sciences Department at Carnegie Mellon University offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary education in biology. Our undergraduate programs are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the natural sciences while allowing for specialization and academic flexibility.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures students develop both intellectual breadth and depth, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology and beyond.
Core Areas of Study in Biological Sciences Flexible Degree Programs Academic Advising Award-Winning Teachers
CORE AREAS OF STUDY IN BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Students can customize their educational experience by choosing electives from departments across campus, integrating disciplines such as computer science, engineering, and public policy.
For those students interested in specialized training in an area of biology, we offer degree tracks that are earned through completion of advanced electives. See the Course Catalog for the current course requirements for each degree option.
Biochemistry | Biomedical Sciences | Biophysics | Cell Biology | Computational Biology | Developmental Biology | Genetics | Molecular Biology | Neuroscience
FLEXIBLE DEGREE PROGRAMS
We offer several bachelor degree options tailored to diverse academic and professional interests:
Majors
Interdisciplinary Programs
Degree Options
- Biochemistry
- Biomedical Sciences
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Computational Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
See the Course Catalog for details on each degree option.
Honors Program in Research Biology
The departmental Honors Program offers an opportunity to become extensively involved in research. The program requires students to conduct an independent project and to prepare a formal thesis written and defended in the senior year. This program does not preclude a student from completing any of the options within the department nor is it the only way in which students can participate in undergraduate research, although it is excellent preparation for graduate studies. Please contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for more information.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Global Opportunities
Over 80% of our students participate in undergraduate research, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge labs. We also encourage global engagement through Study Abroad programs, which continue to grow in popularity each year.
Faculty Focus Groups
Each semester, our faculty host discussions about primary literature and emerging research in different areas of biology. Groups meet about once per month and are open to undergraduate students of any class year. No previous knowledge or experience is necessary. Faculty Research Focus Groups provide the opportunity to practice this skill in an informal setting while building relationships with faculty in Biological Sciences. Contact us to get started!
ACADEMIC ADVISING
Academic advising is a cornerstone of student success in the Department of Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon. From day one, students receive personalized guidance from dedicated faculty mentors who help you make informed decisions about your coursework, research opportunities, and long-term goals.
Meeting regularly with your advisor — at least once per semester — is strongly encouraged. These sessions are your opportunity to:
- Build an individualized academic plan
- Select courses that align with your interests and career goals
- Explore research and experiential learning opportunities
- Prepare for graduate school or professional pathways
- Ask questions, share concerns, and connect with a trusted mentor
Academic Advisors
Carrie Doonan
Teaching Professor and Director of Undergraduate Laboratories
cbd@andrew.cmu.edu
Lynley Doonan
Assistant Teaching Professor
ldoonan@andrew.cmu.edu
Amanda Willard
Assistant Teaching Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies
awillard@cmu.edu
Explore the CMU Health Professions Program (HPP)
Carnegie Mellon’s Health Professions Program supports current students and alumni pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, genetic counseling, and other health-related fields. HPP offers personalized advising, resources, and a collaborative environment to help pre-health students thrive academically and professionally.
Graduate Studies Counseling
Planning for graduate school? The Department of Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University offers comprehensive Graduate Studies Counseling to help students successfully navigate the graduate admissions process and prepare for advanced study in science and related fields.
Services Offered
Our faculty and advisors provide personalized support through:
- Personal Statement Review – Get expert feedback to craft a compelling and authentic application essay.
- Graduate School Selection Guidance – Identify programs that align with your academic goals and research interests.
- Mock Interviews – Practice and refine your interview skills with faculty mentors.
GRE Preparation and Information
The GRE General Test is commonly required for admission to graduate programs, including Ph.D. tracks in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Chemistry, and Master’s programs such as Genetic Counseling or Health Care Policy and Management. The test evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills.
Some programs may also require a GRE Subject Test, so be sure to check each school’s specific requirements. While the GRE is just one part of your application, it remains a significant factor in admissions decisions. For guidance on preparing for the GRE and understanding its role in your application, please contact Assistant Teaching Professor Amanda Willard.
NSF Graduate Research
Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP) Students interested in pursuing graduate research may be eligible for the NSF GRFP, a prestigious fellowship supporting graduate study in STEM fields.
Eligibility Requirements:
- U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident
- Graduating senior, recent B.S./B.A. graduate, or early-stage graduate student
- Enrolled in or planning to pursue a research-based Master’s or Ph.D. program in a STEM discipline supported by NSF
Course Schedule Approval Process
To be cleared to register for courses you must get preapproval of your schedule from an academic advisor. Enter the courses you plan to take next semester below and submit for review. You will receive an email approving or giving suggestions to improve your schedule.
Maximum allowable units: 54 Units overloads must be approved after registration.
Schedule of Classes Undergraduate Biological Sciences Course Schedule Approval Form
Transfer Credit for Modern Biology
Students wishing to transfer credit for 03-121 from another institution must meet the following requirements:
- The course in question should have at least an 80% match in topics with 03-121. Topics in 03-121 cover the genetic, molecular, cellular, developmental, and evolutionary mechanisms that underlie biological processes and include: Cell theory; Cell chemistry; Cell structure; Function and structure of proteins, DNA, RNA, lipids and carbohydrates; Cell respiration and fermentation; The cell cycle; Cell-cell interactions and communication; Transcription; Translation; RNA processing in Eukaryotes; DNA replication; DNA mutation and repair; Meiosis; Mitosis; and Regulation of Gene Expression.
- This information is sometimes available in the course description, but more detail is often found in a course syllabus.
- The textbook used in the transfer course should be at a comparable level to S. Freeman (2010) "Biological Science, Vol. 1 (The Cell, Genetics, and Development)," Fourth Edition, Pearson Benjamin Cummings, ISBN 0-321-61347-3.
- Introductory level courses that focus on other biology areas (i.e. anatomy, physiology, ecology, evolution, and/or development) will not be accepted for 03-121 credit. These courses may receive credit for a general biology elective.
- Students should contact their academic advisor for the transfer credit approval process in their college.
AWARD-WINNING TEACHERS
Faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University are recognized for their excellence in teaching and mentorship. Their commitment to student success and cutting-edge pedagogy creates a dynamic and supportive learning environment for aspiring biologists.
D.J. Braiser
2017 Teaching Innovation Award
2021 Julius Ashkin Teaching award
Maggie Braun
2017 Teaching Innovation Award
2022 Outstanding Contributions to Academic Advising and Mentoring Award
Amy Burkert
2017 Teaching Innovation Award
2020 Robert E. Doherty Award for Sustained Contributions to Excellence in Education
2008 Julius Ashkin Award
1998 Academic Advising Award
Carrie Doonan
2020 Teaching Innovation Award
2022 Richard Moore Education Award
2000 Julius Ashkin Award
Lynley Doonan
2020 Teaching Innovation Award
2022 Provost’s Inclusive Teaching Fellow
Emily Drill
2020 Teaching Innovation Award
Brooke McCartney
2016 Richard Moore Education Award
Natalie McGuier
2020 Teaching Innovation Award
2020 Wimmer Faculty Fellow
Jonathan Minden
2017 Teaching Innovation Award
2012 Richard Moore Education Award
2007 Innovation in Education Award
Gordon Rule
2007 William H. and Frances S. Ryan Award for Meritorious Teaching
2005 Julius Ashkin Award
1998 Eberly Chair in Structural Biology and Chemistry
Amanda Williard
2022 Provost’s Inclusive Teaching Fellow
John Woolford
2003 Richard Moore Award
1998 Julius Ashkin Award