Biology Department

Why be a biologist?

Because the world needs doctors, dentists, teachers and veterinarians. Because molecular biologists, biochemists and geneticists are changing the world. Because ecologists and environmental biologists care for the world. Because botany, zoology and cell biology ... are the world.

Because bio-research is fun. Biologists are opening windows of understanding on all aspects of the living world. From cancer research to animal behavior, they are living the adventures of exploration and discovery.

Because biologists lead a great life. Salaries are in the range of good to excellent; the work is stimulating and important. At the end of the day, you feel good about who you are and what you've contributed to the world.

Why study biology at Heidelberg?

Facilities, course selection and people.

Heidelberg has Bareis Hall and brand new Gillmor Science Hall, which opened in January 2005 ... and our internationally renowned Water Quality Laboratory, designated by Congress in 2002 as the National Center for Water Quality Research.

Heidelberg is Dr. Bob Murray. His developmental biology and human medical genetics courses change students' ideas about the molecular underpinnings of life, opening worlds of exciting career possibilities.

If you are interested in becoming a physician, veterinarian or other health professional, Dr. Pam Faber is your Heidelberg.  Heidelberg’s pre-med program is one of the few to offer undergraduates the opportunity to work in a cadaver prosection lab.

Dr. Susan Carty is Heidelberg, too. Her microbiology and ethnobotany courses are semester-long exercises in cooperative learning and higher-level thinking. One of the world's top experts on the dinoflagellate algae, her field studies have ranged from Ecuador and Belize to across the United States.

Heidelberg is Dr. Ken Baker's animal behavior and environmental law courses. His SCUBA-based studies of Lake Erie fish and his electrofishing surveys of area streams bring students with a taste for nature into the out-of-doors.

And Dr. Ken Krieger's limnology and water pollution biology are Heidelberg. His courses for our environmental biology and water resources majors are founded on years of experience as one of three full-time research Ph.D.s working in the National Center for Water Quality Research. His studies center on the use of microinvertebrates as biological indicators of water quality.

Programs in Biology

Forensic Science: Biology majors may take several courses in Anthropology and one in Criminal Justice to be well prepared for graduate training in Forensics.

Health Professions: Biology majors have an excellent track record of getting into -- and succeeding -- in medical, dentistry, podiatry, physical therapy and veterinary schools.

Cellular and Molecular Biology/Genetics: Biology majors graduating with a C&MG concentration are well-prepared for advanced work in both master's and doctoral graduate programs.

Environmental Studies: Heidelberg's long-time commitment to the environment shows in our Environmental Biology major and our unique Water Resources major, which capitalizes on the strengths of the Water Quality Lab. Graduates of both programs do well in graduate school and the job market.