Biology Major

The Biology major is designed for students who are interested in a broad exposure to the concepts and methodologies of the biological sciences, as well as those interested in a more specific sub-discipline. It is a great choice for students interested in post-graduate careers in any biological science or health profession. It is also appropriate for students who think that a good knowledge of biology and the scientific process will help them in a non-biological career. This major may be completed in the College of Agricultural & Life Sciences or the College of Letters & Science. This comparison table can help you decide which college is the best fit for your academic goals and interests.

The Evolutionary Biology Named Option allows biology majors to concentrate their studies in evolution and to have this reflected on their transcript. Since there is no evolutionary biology major available at UW–Madison, this is the only mechanism to indicate specialization in this rapidly growing and popular field.

News & Announcements

• National Transfer Student Week – October 19-23, 2026
  Join us in recognizing and celebrating the contributions and successes of our transfer students & their champions at UW–Madison.
• Wisconsin Idea Fellowships
  The Wisconsin Idea Fellowships support innovative projects designed collaboratively by UW–Madison undergraduate students, community partners, and academic advisors to help address a community-identified need.
• Those dots are more than decoration: the importance of bird-safe glass during bird migration season
  As bird migration begins, cities pose a risk to traveling birds through bird strikes, but bird-safe glass can help mitigate this risk. Quinn Kiesow, a UW-Madison Biology Major student, has been conducting bird collision surveys for five seasons, three of which have been with the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance.