Biology

Why biology matters:

Biology is the science of life, vital to solving urgent challenges in health, the environment, agriculture, and biotechnology. It helps us understand everything from disease outbreaks to ecosystem collapse, from the intricacies of DNA to the movement of entire populations. Studying biology gives students the tools to think critically about life on Earth and to contribute meaningfully to its future.

How biology is taught at Muhlenberg:

Biology at Muhlenberg combines depth and breadth — from molecular biology and genetics to evolution, ecology, and conservation. Students learn through inquiry-driven coursework, field experiences, and hands-on lab research. With close faculty mentorship and opportunities for independent projects, study abroad, and community engagement, students graduate prepared for careers in science, medicine, environmental work, or wherever curiosity leads.

93%
Working or enrolled
Six months after graduation
8:1
Student to Faculty
Classroom ratio
80%
Higher
ROI of a Muhlenberg degree compared with other college degrees across the nation
91%
Retention rate
Most Muhlenberg students return for their second year (compared with 58% national average)
  • 93%
    Working or enrolled
    Six months after graduation
  • 8:1
    Student to Faculty
    Classroom ratio
  • 80%
    Higher
    ROI of a Muhlenberg degree compared with other college degrees across the nation
  • 91%
    Retention rate
    Most Muhlenberg students return for their second year (compared with 58% national average)
Table of Contents
Loading...

Request Info

Loading...
Program Contact Details
Biology at Muhlenberg
484-664-3200

Loading...

Program Contact Details
Biology at Muhlenberg
484-664-3200

Biology majors at Muhlenberg study life at every level — from molecules and cells to ecosystems and evolution. The curriculum emphasizes not only the content of biology, but the process: how to ask meaningful questions, gather and interpret data, and evaluate scientific evidence.
Students build foundational skills in biological theory and practice, with the flexibility to pursue advanced coursework aligned with their goals. The major prepares students for graduate study in the life sciences, health professions, education, environmental fields, and more. Students with strong academic records may apply to the department’s honors program, which includes original research and a public presentation.

At Muhlenberg, biology students learn by doing — from conducting experiments in the lab to exploring ecosystems in the field. Many students collaborate with faculty on independent research projects, with opportunities to present findings at conferences and co-author publications.

Field courses, community-based learning, and off-campus study provide additional ways to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts. Students also gain practical skills through internships, summer research, or participation in programs like teacher certification.

These immersive experiences build not only technical proficiency, but also the curiosity, communication, and problem-solving skills needed for work across the sciences — and beyond.

Loading...

Loading...

Bruce Wightman
Professor, Dept. Chair, Biology
Daniel Klem
Professor, Ornithology and Conservation Biology
Debra A Walther
Senior Lecturer, Biology
Elizabeth McCain
Professor, Biology
Erika V Iyengar
Professor, Biology
Giancarlo Cuadra
Associate Professor, Biology
Josephine Loricco
Assistant Professor, Biochemistry
Kimberly Heiman
Senior Lecturer, Biology
Marten J Edwards
Professor, Biology
Melissa J Dowd
Senior Lecturer, Biology
Patricia T Bradt
Emeritus Faculty
Paul T Meier
Emeritus Faculty
Richard A Niesenbaum
Professor, Biology, Director, Sustainability Studies Program; Director of RJ Fellows Program
Biology

Brandon Brogle ’20, took part in groundbreaking research with the College’s world-renowned Acopian Center for Ornithology and continues to assist in research efforts while working for EnviroScience as an avian field technician.

Powerful Outcomes

A Muhlenberg education sets you up for success. The liberal arts will hone your ability to think critically, communicate, and problem-solve, skills that are in high demand across all employment sectors. 

DISCOVER WHAT'S NEXT

Biology News

Look Inside the Lab Researching Vaping's Effects on the Oral Microbiome

Muhlenberg professor and student team are exploring how exposure to e-liquids changes the function of immune cells.

Read More

Students Present Research in Spain

Summer Check-In: Three Students Present Research at Conference in Barcelona, Spain Sabeen Safi '26, a pre-dental public health major, shares her experience of presenting the…

Read More

Victoria Diaz

Summer Research: Victoria Diaz '28 Helps Assess Stream Health Diaz, an environmental science major, worked to capture and count small aquatic organisms in nearby Little…

Read More