Beyond Basic Biology

Our department focuses on interdisciplinary education and diverse research opportunities to explore some of the most pressing scientific issues facing our world.

Undergraduate

Our undergraduate programs offer students a world-class education in the biological sciences that prepares them for bright futures.

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Graduate

We offer more than 15 degrees in seven focus areas at the master’s and doctoral levels, as well as a thriving research environment.

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Research

Research is an integral part of the educational experience in our department, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Explore our research

Nearly 500 Graduates

With almost 500 graduates in 2014-15, the Department of Biological Sciences is one of the largest academic departments at NC State.

Strategic Plan

The overarching goal of the Department of Biological Sciences’ Strategic Plan 2017-2022 is to achieve a learning and training environment for our students that is second to none and, in doing so, to provide the resources necessary for our faculty and staff to reach their full potential.
The Department’s Plan aligns with the University’s strategic plan with the following aims:

1) Enhance the success of our students through educational innovation
2) Enhance scholarship and research by investing in faculty and infrastructure
3) Enhance organizational excellence by creating a culture of constant improvement
4) Enhance local and global engagement through focused strategic partnerships.

Highlights of the Plan include the establishment of a Biological Sciences Center for Educational Excellence. The Center would drive research and innovation for evidence-based teaching and learning, provide opportunities for professional development, and support student and faculty interactions. The Plan identifies the need to provide authentic research experiences for all interested undergrads. That need is addressed by strategies to provide at least one semester of an authentic research experience to all undergraduate students.

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News

Dec 13, 2018

College Textbooks Largely Overlook the Most Common Animals

Recent research found that biology textbooks devote less than 1 percent of their text to discussing insects, which make up more than 60 percent of animal species.

Dec 12, 2018

How I Get My Undergraduate Students Involved in Research

Jennifer Landin, teaching associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, shares her tips for helping undergraduates become researchers.

Dec 12, 2018

Kerri Johnson: Remarkable Researcher

Undergraduate research has been a major part of graduating biological sciences student Kerri Johnson's NC State experience.