The biology departments at UC Santa Cruz offer a broad spectrum of courses that reflect the exciting new developments and directions in the field of biology. Outstanding faculty, each with a vigorous, internationally recognized research program, teach courses in their specialties as well as core courses for the major.

The biology minor is designed to incorporate elements of both the ecology and evolutionary biology discipline and the molecular, cell and developmental biology discipline.

Learning Experience

Areas of research strength within the departments include RNA molecular biology, molecular and cellular aspects of genetics and development, neurobiology, immunology, microbial biochemistry, plant biology, animal behavior, physiology, evolution, ecology, marine biology, and conservation biology. Many students take advantage of the numerous opportunities for undergraduate research, allowing students to interact one on one with faculty and other researchers in a laboratory or field setting.

Study and Research Opportunities

Students may plan a program that leads to a bachelor of arts (B.A.),  or bachelor of science (B.S.) degree. The  Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department administers the B.A. major, while the Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology Department administers the B.S. major and the minor. With the guidance of faculty members, students have access to extensive departmental laboratory facilities for independent research, and fieldwork that draws on a variety of terrestrial and oceanic habitats. Hospitals and physical therapy centers, veterinary clinics and other medical enterprises in the local community provide the opportunity to pursue field projects and internships comparable to on-the-job training.