Biology

Why choose biology at North Central College?

You’ll delve into scientific research from day one as a biology major at North Central. Our research-rich curriculum and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on real-world research projects will help you develop the skills of a scientist. You may present your findings at North Central’s own Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research or at a national conference, and you may even publish your work. You’ll gain broad experience from molecules and cells to organisms and ecological systems and prepare yourself for a career in research, medicine, education, environment or biotechnology.

You can also:

Apply for our funded summer research program.
Attend on-campus seminar presentations by students, alumni and professionals in your field.
Travel to Arizona to study desert ecology.
Work with a dedicated pre-health advisor and the Pre-Health Organization for students.
Join the Beta Beta Beta biological honor society.
Minor in environmental studies, neuroscience or bioinformatics.
Study at the Shedd Aquarium or Morton Arboretum.
Be a student lab assistant.

To learn more about experiences and opportunities here at North Central College as a biology major, click here.

Rebecca Tran earns North Central College's 2012 Outstanding Major in Biology Award

Rebecca Tran of Aurora was awarded the 2012 Outstanding Major in Biology Award during Honors Day May 15 at North Central College.

Heather Carlson ’91 delivers keynote address at Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research

Heather Carlson '91 delivered the keynote address at North Central College’s 15th annual Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research.

Gregory Ruthig, assistant professor of biology

Ruthig publishes paper on research

Gregory Ruthig, North Central College assistant professor of biology, co-authored article that has been published in the journal Diseases of Aquatic Organisms.

more news

Graduate Schools

Recent graduates in biology have been accepted at:

Brandeis University
John Carroll University
University of Iowa
University of Texas
University of Wisconsin
University of Illinois
Midwestern University
John Marshall Law School

Medical and Professional Schools

Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine
Loyola University School of Nursing
Kansas State Univ. College of Veterinary Medicine
Midwestern University physician assistant program
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Pennsylvania College of Optometry
University of Illinois-Chicago Dental School
University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine

Employment

Recent graduates in biology include:

Dow AgroSciences
Edward Hospital
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Loyola University Medical Center
Oswego East High School
PharmaPro, Inc.
Romeoville High School
Shedd Aquarium

Feature

Alex Knobloch

Biology major

After completing the College’s Summer Research Program, Alex presented his findings at the 2010 Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research. "The faculty hold students to a high level of academic achievement. That’s challenging, to say the least, but it’s also very rewarding," says Alex, who worked on a project that involved synthesizing a salamander's DNA. "My work gave me an appreciation for the research process that will last the rest of my life. I worked closely with faculty in their roles as research advisors and contributed to a science department culture that is really flourishing."

In 2010 Alex was named the College’s Outstanding Major in Biology as well as the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin Man of the Year, which recognizes the athletic conference’s top male student-athlete. Today Alex attends the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD, where he’s pursuing a medical degree through the Air Force. He ultimately hopes to practice family medicine as a primary care physician.

Feature

Kari Nelson

Biology

As a freshman, Kari Nelson was already conducting research with a biology professor, using E. coli bacteria to study the aging process.

“I just wanted to get my feet wet in the field,” she says.

“Everyone helps each other out—including professors. They are very connected with their students.”

Also during her first year, she worked for a chiropractor and learned about the health field by assisting in blood draws, X-rays and various therapies.

“A lot of opportunities early on helped me realize what I do and don’t want to do,” she says. “I realized I love science, but I also love being with people and applying the science.”

Kari wants to become either a high school teacher or a chiropractor. “Either way, I want to educate people about science. “

Kari is considering a number of graduate programs where she could earn her teaching certification. At North Central, she served as secretary of the Pre-Heath Organization and as membership chair for the Blue Key Honor Society. She also played intramural volleyball and basketball, which helped her gain an appreciation for the spirit of community on campus.

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