Department of Biology
At Northern Michigan University, biology students go beyond textbooks to explore the living world through hands-on learning, research and real-world experiences. With a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, you'll gain the knowledge and skills to pursue your interests and prepare for a future in the biological sciences.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
At NMU, undergraduate students have opportunities to do more than study scientific discoveries–they can contribute to them. Work alongside faculty, investigate questions that interest you and gain valuable research experience that can prepare you for graduate study or a career in the biological sciences.
Exceptional Facilities. Extraordinary Opportunities.
In addition to the unique outdoor learning opportunities offered by Michigan's Upper Peninsula, NMU biology students have access to specialized facilities that enrich their education and support scientific discovery. From the Northern Museum of Zoology and aquatics laboratory to our greenhouse, herbarium and research laboratories, students have access to a wide range of resources for learning and research.
A Classroom Like No Other
Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, NMU offers biology students unique opportunities to study diverse natural environments firsthand. From the forests and wetlands of the Upper Peninsula to the freshwater ecosystems of Lake Superior, students can experience fieldwork and ecological research in natural settings that few universities can offer.
Undergraduate Degree Programs
Whether you're interested in studying wildlife, exploring the microscopic world or preparing to teach the next generation of scientists, NMU offers opportunities to turn your interests into a degree and your degree into a career. Choose from a variety of biology majors, concentrations and degree options that allow you to focus your studies on the areas of science that interest you most.
Explore NMU's undergraduate biology programs:
Graduate Degree Programs
Build on your scientific knowledge and take your research further with a master's degree from Northern Michigan University. Our graduate programs offer the opportunity to pursue in-depth, original research with guidance from experienced faculty, whether you're continuing your education at NMU or joining us from another university.
Choose a path focused on biology or explore the connections between biology and other scientific disciplines through Integrated Biosciences. With access to specialized laboratories and the diverse natural environments of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you'll have opportunities to pursue research that reflects your academic and professional goals.
“As an undergraduate, I was fortunate to join the Northern Museum of Zoology where I volunteered my time in the lab as well as in the field. Fieldwork at Northern solidified my career choice.
Today I am an environmental consultant and project biologist, still conducting fieldwork for clients and the State of Michigan. I am very thankful for opportunities available as an undergraduate that allowed me to learn and grow in the field of science while giving me a step up in job interviews with real-world fieldwork experiences that my competition did not have.”
Alec Kraushaar
Fisheries and Wildlife major, Wildlife track
Biology Newsletter
Stay connected with the NMU Biology Department through our newsletter. Discover student and faculty research, department news, and updates highlighting the work and accomplishments of the NMU biology community.
Explore Your Interests
Explore biology beyond the textbook through hands-on learning in classrooms, laboratories and the field. Study everything from cells and genetics to wildlife and ecosystems, then put that knowledge into practice using specialized facilities, including the greenhouse, aquatics laboratory and Northern Museum of Zoology.
Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Northern Michigan University also offers opportunities to study natural environments firsthand, including forests, wetlands, and the Great Lakes region.
Conduct Your Own Research
Research is an important part of studying biology at NMU, with faculty exploring topics ranging from cancer and genetics to conservation and neuroscience. Research takes place in laboratories and natural environments, giving students opportunities to investigate scientific questions across a variety of biological fields.
Students can contribute to faculty-led projects, conduct their own research and gain experience sharing their findings through academic conferences and publications. Biology-related student organizations also provide opportunities to explore scientific interests and connect with others who share their passion for science.
Learn from Experienced Faculty
NMU's biology professors don't just teach science. They're actively contributing to it. From cancer biology and conservation genetics to evolutionary biology and neurobiology, our faculty bring their research experience and discoveries into the classroom. Students learn from scientists who are actively investigating the subjects they teach, connecting their education to real-world scientific work.
Support the Next Generation of Scientists
Your support helps create meaningful opportunities for NMU biology students. Gifts to the Biology Department fund student scholarships, support scientific research, and provide laboratory equipment that enhances learning and discovery. Every contribution helps strengthen the educational experiences that prepare students for their futures in science.