Is a research university right for me?–

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students. Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines. Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you. If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel. Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well. Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.

Is a liberal arts college right for me?–

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students. Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom). Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships, but also more pleasurable walks across campus. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers. Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Is an online college right for me?–

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available. Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degress you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no disctinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online. Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whehter you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college. Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands. Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain. Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands balancing work and life, or becuase the online colleges afford them the chance to attend a better school without moving. If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are aynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc. The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors. Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions. If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find, well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees

By Dr. Jed Macosko and James Barham

Published: Sep 16, 2021
Updated: Mar 13, 2023

The best biology research universities are those with rich histories of influence, proven through the work produced by the program’s faculty and alumni. Beyond demonstrating scholarly impact in the field, the best biology degree programs maximize your opportunities to interact with outstanding biology faculty.

Top 10 Research Universities for Biology Degrees

Harvard University

97%

Columbia University

89%

University of Chicago

88%

University of California, Berkeley

87%

Yale University

87%

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

87%

Stanford University

86%

University of Michigan

83%

Cornell University

81%

New York University

81%

University of Washington

53%

University of California, San Diego

34%

University of Florida

30%

University of Virginia

21%

University of Michigan

20%

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

20%

University of California, Berkeley

14%

University of Southern California

13%

New York University

13%

Washington University in St. Louis

13%

University of Washington

20 to 1

University of California, Berkeley

19 to 1

University of California, San Diego

19 to 1

University of California, Los Angeles

18 to 1

University of Florida

17 to 1

University of Virginia

15 to 1

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

13 to 1

University of Michigan

11 to 1

University of Southern California

9 to 1

Cornell University

9 to 1

Columbia University

$63,530

Brown University

$62,304

University of Chicago

$62,241

University of Pennsylvania

$61,710

University of Southern California

$61,503

Cornell University

$61,015

Duke University

$60,244

Yale University

$59,950

Washington University in St. Louis

$58,866

Johns Hopkins University

$58,720

University of Chicago

$62,640

Brown University

$60,944

University of Southern California

$60,446

Johns Hopkins University

$58,720

Duke University

$57,900

Washington University in St. Louis

$57,750

California Institute of Technology

$56,364

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

$55,510

Stanford University

$54,315

Vanderbilt University

$51,600

Emory University

63%

Vanderbilt University

64%

University of Florida

67%

Washington University in St. Louis

67%

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

67%

University of California, San Diego

70%

University of Virginia

72%

Brown University

72%

University of Southern California

72%

University of Washington

73%

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Stanford University

Harvard University

Columbia University

California Institute of Technology

Yale University

University of Pennsylvania

University of Chicago

Duke University

Brown University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

3 to 1

California Institute of Technology

3 to 1

Stanford University

4 to 1

Yale University

4 to 1

Harvard University

5 to 1

University of Chicago

5 to 1

Columbia University

6 to 1

Duke University

6 to 1

Brown University

6 to 1

University of Pennsylvania

6 to 1

University of Florida

$4,477

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

$7,019

University of Washington

$10,927

University of California, Los Angeles

$11,442

University of California, Berkeley

$11,442

University of California, San Diego

$11,442

University of Virginia

$16,547

University of Michigan

$16,865

Emory University

$55,468

Harvard University

$55,587

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

$10,552

University of Florida

$10,770

University of California, Los Angeles

$11,442

University of California, Berkeley

$11,442

University of California, San Diego

$11,442

University of Washington

$16,605

University of Virginia

$17,674

University of Michigan

$24,902

Cornell University

$29,500

New York University

$35,982

Key Takeaways

Biology is the study of life. Biologists generally study living organisms’ structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution.
The best research universities for biology degrees provide students with world-class research facilities and lab studies. Most top-ranked universities for biology are conducting world-changing research themselves, headed by their biology department.
Undergraduate students and graduates earning a degree in biology get their foot in the door by developing a comprehensive understanding of the biological organization, including molecules, microbes, species, and ecosystems. Graduate studies enable them to pursue careers in medicine, zoology, and chemistry.

Featured Programs

Biology Majors: Pick the Best Colleges!

Students studying biology should be curious about their surroundings because many people in this major have questions about how the world works. They must be adaptable, challenge-ready, and open-minded. They will be dealing with the unknown, and their research may raise more questions than it will resolve.

Students should embrace adventure as their study may lead them outside of a lab or a classroom and into the real world. As dissections occur in the lab, biology majors also need strong analytical abilities and a strong stomach.

A biology major requires a lot of knowledge intake from the students, which challenges and empowers them to make decisions about their their studies and about the world they live in.

Popular Degrees in Biology

For Bachelor Level

BSc in Biology: This degree provides a foundational understanding of molecular, microbiology, botany, zoology, ecology, and cell biology. Students learn essential information about organisms via lectures and labs. This degree is a prerequisite for graduate study in the biological sciences or a terminal degree to pursue professions in research and laboratories. Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a top-rated school for this degree.
BSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Bioengineering: With this degree, students will have a comprehensive understanding of molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, and genetics principles. This degree requires a strong foundation in physics, chemistry, and mathematics. University of California San Diego is an excellent school for this degree.
BSc (Hons) in Microbiology: This degree requires biology students to focus on the biology of microorganisms that are unicellular, multicellular, or acellular (without cells). This includes microbes like bacteria and fungi and covers concepts like growth and regulation and how microbes react with each other and their environments. Cornell University is an outstanding choice when pursuing this degree.
BA in Neuroscience: This degree involves studying the brain and nervous system, combining research into molecules, cells, genetics, brain structure, and brain systems with investigations of how these elements influence cognition and behavior. Johns Hopkins University is a leading school offering this program.
Bachelor of Physical and Life Sciences: This degree focuses on the biology of acellular, multicellular, and unicellular microorganisms (without cells). This covers topics like growth and regulation and how microorganisms interact with one another and their environments. Harvard University is one of the top schools for this degree.
Bachelor in Biology & Biochemistry: To complete this degree, one must conduct research on chemicals, cells, genetics, brain structure, and brain systems, as well as inquiries into how these components interact to affect cognition and behavior. Stanford University is one of the top schools for this degree.
Bachelor in Evolutionary Biology: This degree integrates the fields of genetics and environmental science to provide you with a comprehensive grasp of the evolution of habitats, biodiversity, and species interactions with their environments. Duke University and Yale University are two of the top schools for this degree.

For Master Level

MSc in Biology: This degree is intended to give students a solid foundation in the ideas and principles of the life sciences, to help them develop the necessary abilities, and to instill in them a positive attitude toward biological study and inquiry. Harvard University is the best school for this degree.
Master’s Degree in Coastal and Marine Biology:This degree provides research- and tech-based instruction in the area. It is a promising degree for students looking for job prospects at state, federal, and international fisheries and marine conservation agencies. Stanford University is one of the most preferred schools for this degree.
MS in Biological Sciences:This degree program aims to improve students’ theoretical and practical knowledge of biology and other life sciences. The curriculum covers biotechnological, ecological research, and environmental science. It is designed to get students ready for careers in biology and research. California Institute of Technology is known for offering this top-notch master’s program.

A bachelor’s degree in biology is an excellent starting point for a career in zoology, ecology, botany, and a host of other fascinating STEM fields. As a biology major, you’ll study the full spectrum of life sciences. Your biology degree may incorporate subjects such as evolutionary biology, biochemistry, and microbiology, as well as foundational courses in subjects like human anatomy and biodiversity. The best schools for biology are those which are regionally accredited, which offer a full array of biology concentrations, and which give you the chance to work with the best and most influential professors and classmates.

Degree popularity: Biology bachelor’s degrees are the 6th most popular undergraduate degrees across all student demographics. It’s slightly more popular among women, and ranks the 4th most popular degree among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, according to the number of degree earners reported by the National Center for Educational Statistics

Frequently Asked Questions About Biology Bachelor’s Degrees

Once you’ve declared you major in biology, the common requirements include:

General Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Biology and/or Biochemistry
Physics
Calculus
Statistics

Biology majors are also expected to engage in original research, working at on-campus laboratories or research facilities, as well as in the field. They will work closely with faculty, laboratory support staff, and teaching fellows as they explore areas of scientific interest. Most colleges include a senior capstone project based on original research, presented via poster, workshop, keynote, or other presentation.

Biology is a good major for anyone interested in life, living things, and what makes them tick at the macro and micro levels. Whether you have an interest in human anatomy, cell biology, neuroscience, or animal physiology, a degree in biology can prepare you for work in fields as diverse as marine biology, neuroscience, medicine, and more.

Biology is a popular major because it can provide a pathway into countless fields and career opportunities. If you’re looking for a well-paying and secure job, a biology degree is a great place to start. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in the life, physical, and social sciences will grow at a rate of 5 percent between now and 2029. This is faster than the average rate for all occupations. Likewise, the median annual wage for life, physical, and social science occupations was $68,160 in 2019, as compared to a median wage for all occupations of $39,810. Whether studying humans, animals, plants, insects, microscopic cells of bacteria, or even pondering the existence of life in space, a biology degree can provide you with the knowledge, skills, and credentials to work in a wide range of professional settings.

Biology is a hard major for many because the language of science seems so unfamiliar. Biology is not as math intensive as other fields such as chemistry, but you will need to learn the basics of calculus and statistics. However, for students passionate about the study of biology and where they hope it leads them in their careers, successfully completing a major in biology is achievable.

Obviously, having a propensity in the hard sciences is helpful. This isn’t to say that you need special background knowledge. Just like any other college degree, a planned path to a major in biology should have you adequately prepared.

As a biology major, you will hone your research and observation skills, develop strategies for collection and evaluation of data, and acquire the language of science so you can effectively present your research.

Once you’ve declared your major in biology, you will likely be required to complete a set of core courses in STEM-related subject areas. While your concentration will give you a chance to choose from a wide range of highly-specialized biology electives, there are a number of common courses that most biology majors will be required to take, including:

Biostatistics
Biochemistry
Human Anatomy
Microbiology
Marine Biology
Genetics
Evolutionary Biology
Plant Biology
Molecular Biology

Biology Degree jobs include Medical Lab Technician, Forensic Science Technician, Zoologist, Environmental Scientist, and Chemist. Students often study biology as preparation for a professional program (pre-med, pre-veterinary, etc.) That doesn’t mean that you have to get an advanced degree to begin using your biology degree. A bachelor’s degree in biology can prepare you for many jobs in medicine, zoology, and chemistry. Here are some of the professions you could explore:

Frequently Asked Questions About Research Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges, Online Colleges

In pursuing a bachelor’s degree, you will need to choose between three kinds of schools: research universities, liberal arts colleges, and online colleges.

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students.

Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines. Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you. If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel.

Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well.
Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.

Learn more about research universities by reading about the best research universities in the US.

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree.

Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students. Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom).
Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships, but also more pleasurable walks across campus. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers. Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Learn more about liberal arts colleges by reading about the best liberal arts colleges in the US.

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available. Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degress you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no disctinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online. Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whehter you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college.

Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands. Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain.
Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands balancing work and life, or becuase the online colleges afford them the chance to attend a better school without moving. If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are aynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc.
The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors. Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions.

If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

If you think a liberal arts college may be a better fit for you, see our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges for a bachelor’s in biology.

How do we determine the best biology research universities?

Methodology

The people affiliated with a school are ultimately what make it great. This is why we rank the best colleges and universities based on what we call “Influence”.

The influence of a college or university is based on the schools’s top academic influencers related to the discipline in this ranking. We track the influence of faculty and alumni affiliate with these school counting not only the publications and citations of the school’s affiliated people, but we also consider the overall web presence of the faculty and alumni. The greater the citations, authority of web links, web searches, and page views, the greater the individuals’s influence. Those combined make up the departments’s influence in the field of study. We believe tracking the academic influence of the people affiliated with a school is the best indicator of academic excellence.

If you are serious about finding the best colleges and universities, you should be asking where the most influential professors are teaching, and whether their graduates themselves are advancing the school’s reputation for academic excellence. Most ranking sites rely on an opaque combination of reputation surveys and misused performance metrics. Influence, as measured by our InfluenceRanking engine, provides a ranking that is more insulated from manipulation, and more reflective of real-world educational outcomes.