Biology

The Biology major at the United States Military Academy (West Point) focuses on the evolution, structure, and processes of living organisms. Advances in molecular biology and biotechnology are providing significant improvements in the quality of our lives, even as they alter the fundamental way we view life itself. Evolution, genetic engineering, recombinant DNA research, medical treatment, ecology, and emerging diseases are just a few of today's research areas under the biology heading. 

The major gives cadets a basic understanding of analytical and organic chemistry and biology, focusing on the broader understanding of biology and biotechnology. It includes all the courses needed for cadets pursuing the medical school option as well as other post-graduate choices. However, Biology majors do not need to be interested in becoming medical doctors; there are multiple opportunities available within many Army branches for biologists to apply their technical expertise. 

The USMA Biology major is designed to help cadets understand the core concepts and principles of biological science, including having a basic knowledge of biological molecules, the cell, genetics, genetic and metabolic regulation, information flow, structure-function, energy transformation, interaction with the environment, and evolution as the universal themes of life.

Biology majors have a lab requirement component. This major offers an honors track.

Why choose Biology at USMA?

• Army-relevant applications
  Biology directly supports military roles in combat medicine, environmental protection, biosecurity, and public health. This training helps prepare the Army for biological threats and humanitarian missions.
• Strong pathway to medical careers
  If a cadet wants to become an Army doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider, Biology provides the ideal academic foundation for the pre-medical track or graduate study.
• Research opportunities and leadership
  Conduct undergraduate research on topics like disease, biotechnology, or ecosystems - and present findings at conferences or Army research labs.
• Flexible and career-ready
  Biology at West Point opens doors to careers in healthcare, science, environmental policy, bioengineering, and leadership roles across the Army.

What to do with this major?

With a Biology degree from West Point, graduates will be prepared to:

• Serve as an Army officer in medical services, environmental science, or public health
• Apply to medical, dental, veterinary, or graduate school
• Conduct scientific research in military or civilian labs
• Work with agencies like the CDC, NIH, or the Army Medical Research labs
• Lead efforts in health care, sustainability, or science policy

Educational objectives

Biology majors will demonstrate the ability to effectively use a suite of analytical laboratory techniques, equipment, and digital tools appropriate for scientific investigations in biological research.

Cadet outcomes

• Understand the core concepts and principles of biological science, including a basic knowledge of the biological molecules, the cell, genetics, genetic and metabolic regulation, information flow, structure-function, energy transformation, interaction with the environment, and evolution as the universal theme in life. 
• Demonstrate proficiency in oral and written presentation of experimental, peer-reviewed, literature-based biological research and preparation of journal article-style primary research reports and review articles. 
• Demonstrate the ability to effectively use a suite of analytical laboratory techniques, equipment, and digital tools appropriate for scientific investigations in biological research and engineering design. 
• Design and interpret hypothesis-driven experimental investigations, observational studies, and the engineering design process typical of biological science and engineering investigations. 
• Effectively lead and work in collaborative scientific and engineering teams to address biological problems. 
• Critically evaluate ethical and public policy issues involving the application of biological technology and information concerning civilian and military populations.  

Interested cadets

• To learn more about this area of study, visit the Department of Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering.
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