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College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
CompareIntegrative Biology (IB) is the study of living organisms through an integrative lens. It pulls concepts and skills from many disciplines to answer questions about how life works, from the level of the gene to the global ecosystem.
As an IB student, you’ll delve into the study of life and research the interactions of (and in) biological systems. This major emphasizes a strong foundation in experimental design, communication skills, and critical thinking. Your coursework will include a great deal of experiential training. Many classes have a lab component. You’ll study topics like genetics, anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution.
The IB curriculum provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for a wide variety of careers. This includes healthcare, research, conservation, and more. You can visit IB's "alumni mentoring program profiles" page to see what our graduates are doing with their degrees.
If you're interested in this major, apply to our Biology program. You may choose IB as your major before your sophomore year. There is also an option for an IB Honors concentration. IB offers a Secondary Education option for the teaching of Biology in high schools.
72% employed or continuing education
33% employed after graduation
38% attending graduate school
1% volunteering
$39,086 average starting annual income
Sample employer destinations: AbbVie, Mayo Clinic, Eli Lilly View All
Sample grad school destinations: Johns Hopkins University, University of Chicago, Washington University St. Louis View All
3.8 years to degree
95% first-year retention rate
94% four-year graduation rate
94% six-year graduation rate