We offer an ecologically based curriculum that exposes students to concepts, methods, and issues in field biology, environmental studies, and natural resource conservation. We focus primarily on ecology, wildlife biology, and field biology. Using our forests, grasslands, wetlands, streams, and rivers, you’ll not only learn fundamental concepts in biology and ecology but also conduct original research and conservation activities, including prairie restoration, Mississippi River research, forest management, and local wildlife studies.
Majors and Minors Offered
BS Biology
The BS in biology emphasizes ecology and ecological research. The added coursework in math and science makes this program especially appropriate for students interested in graduate study or work in the environmental sciences.
BA Environmental Studies
The BA in environmental studies allows students to explore broadly their interest in the environment. Environmental studies students may choose a special concentration in earth science if desired. This major is particularly appropriate for those with career interests in environmental education, environmental law, public policy, natural resource management, or selected fields of graduate study. You may also minor in environmental studies.
Earth Science minor
The minor in earth science allows students to study the Earth, including the materials that compose it, the processes that change it, and its evolution over time. Inherently interdisciplinary, earth science includes aspects of chemistry, biology, and physics. Fieldwork will be a vital part of your studies, and you’ll collaborate with professors and students on projects in and out of the classroom.
All of our programs provide a science-based, interdisciplinary focus promoting the development of citizenship, stewardship, and a global perspective.
Why Study Biology at Principia College?
- Principia’s biology experience is unique because its primary academic focus is on ecology, wildlife biology, and field biology.
- During an introductory course block known as “Bioblock,” you’ll build rich foundational knowledge in zoology, botany, ecology, and scientific methods. You’ll take no other courses that term so that you can focus on biology and take extended study trips. Over the course of the term, you'll also form close bonds with your professors and classmates.
- Our state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities, extensive student-curated zoological and botanical collections (some of the largest in the Midwest), maple syrup production facility, and land stewardship program allow for additional hands-on learning opportunities.
- Through Principia’s membership in Duke University’s Marine Sciences Education Consortium, you can study marine science at Duke’s Marine Laboratory and participate in its travel programs.
- We also travel to sites in the U.S. and abroad (primarily Peru and the Caribbean) to conduct field work with local biologists and participate in conservation projects.
- Students intern at top biological research labs around the country, including Duke's Marine Lab, Mote Marine Lab, the Owl Institute, and Wood’s Hole Oceanographic Institution, and volunteer locally at the Treehouse Wildlife Rescue Center or World Bird Sanctuary.
- You can engage in original research with faculty mentors.
Scientific Skills
You’ll develop the following scientific skills at every stage of the program through hands-on projects and individualized instructor feedback:
- field work
- data collection and analysis
- scientific writing
- presentation of scientific findings
Applied Skills
Our graduates are frequently hired not only for their academic knowledge but for these professional skills gained at Principia:
- GIS
- radio telemetry and other biotelemetry instruments
- technical climbing certification
- chainsaw certification
Note: See the College Catalog for more detailed information about our program and departmental learning outcomes.
