Iowa State’s Biology program is built to support student success well beyond the classroom. Through a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, mentorship, and community, students are encouraged to explore their interests, gain practical experience, and build meaningful connections with faculty and peers. From the first year through graduation, Biology students take part in high-impact experiences that help them grow academically, professionally, and personally.
"The Biology program has played a huge role in shaping my academic interests and future career goals. As a senior, I plan to pursue an MD and become an OB-GYN with a focus on maternal fetal and women’s health research, and that interest grew directly from my experiences in the program. Two of my favorite classes, Human Reproduction and Anatomy and Physiology, helped everything click for me. They connected what I was learning in biology to real clinical questions and made me realize how much work still needs to be done in women’s health research." - Danielle N., senior
Program leadership is deeply committed to supporting student success.
Iowa State University is a major center for research and education in the biological sciences. Students have the opportunity to learn from some of the nation’s leaders in biological research and teaching and to participate in innovative, meaningful research projects that explore frontiers of biology,” said Don Sakaguchi, Morrill Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs in Biology and Genetics, “Our goal is to make high‑impact experiences—research, internships, and study abroad—accessible to students early and often.”
Faculty echo this dedication.
“Just as important is helping students form genuine connections with faculty. Programs like FaculTEA Time and Meet‑a‑Professor create informal, welcoming spaces where students can ask questions, explore interests, and begin to see themselves as scientists and professionals,” adds Dr. Norah Warchola, Experiential Learning Coordinator and Assistant Teaching Professor, Dept. of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology.
The result of these commitments? A program where students don’t just complete a degree—they build relationships, gain confidence, and graduate with a clearer sense of direction and belonging.
Student Testimonials
- “From the very beginning of my journey, I felt valued at Iowa State. Faculty and professors exhibit their investment into students constantly; the spirit of support is tangible,” adds Drew S., senior
- “Iowa State’s Biology program offers countless opportunities to engage with biology beyond the classroom, and this experience was a perfect example. Through hands-on fieldwork and immersive learning, I was able to connect biological theory to real-world applications in Valencia...The program broadened my understanding of biology as a subject and instilled in me the importance of a global perspective. Without the opportunities provided by Iowa State’s Biology program, I would be a very different student, and I am deeply grateful for the support and experiences that have shaped my education.” — Grace M., senior
- “The support I have received from mentors has been just as important as my coursework and research. I have felt supported not only by professors in the Biology department, but also by mentors outside the department through the organizations I am involved in. They consistently encouraged me to go after opportunities, believed in my goals, and reminded me that I belonged in these spaces. Their support has been a huge part of my educational and professional journey and has given me the confidence to pursue medical school and a career as a physician and researcher.” — Danielle N., senior
Quick Facts About the Biology Program
- Number of Majors: 700+ undergraduate students (Fall 2025)
- 40% College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- 60% College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Research for credit: 80+ students (Fall 2024 through Fall 2025)
- Internships: 20+ students (Fall 2024 through Fall 2025)
- Undergraduate Life Science Poster Symposium: 34 student presenters (December 2025)