Program Highlights
Hundreds of Acres of Outdoor Labs
Luther’s campus is unique—it contains 700 acres of forests, woodlands, prairies, and the Upper Iowa River. These natural areas will become valuable spaces for you to learn in and research during your time here.
Active Research Program
Research experience is an essential part of preparing for a career as a biologist. It’s also necessary when applying for graduate programs. At Luther, you can partner with faculty to make groundbreaking discoveries and get a head start on your future in biology.
Study Biology in the Wider World
Luther’s study-away programs will broaden your understanding of the natural world. Head north to study winter biology in the Boundary Waters. Learn about marine biology in Roatan, Honduras. Explore desert ecology in the American Southwest. We’ll help you make the world your lab.
What You’ll Learn
At Luther, you’ll develop your own flexible course plan based on your goals and interests. We introduce all biology majors and minors to the program through three core courses. These courses are then supplemented by additional electives.
- BIO 151: Ecology, Evolution, and Biodiversity
- BIO 152: Cells and Molecules
- BIO 201: Genetics
As a biology major, you’ll attend at least 12 biology colloquia. Luther’s biology colloquia let you gather with other biologists for lectures and discussions. These presentations represent a wide diversity of biological topics.
No matter what areas of biology you choose to focus on, Luther will set you up for life as a scientist. At Luther, you will:
- Become proficient in using fundamental biological concepts
- Apply the process of science by designing experiments and making observations
- Develop problem-solving strategies
- Communicate scientific ideas
- Use quantitative reasoning
- Understand the relationship between science and society
Careers and Outcomes
Luther biology alumni are physicians, ecologists, geneticists, and more. Our graduates are successful in a variety of biology-related careers.
Career Fields
- Health sciences
- Education
- Conservation and wildlife
- Government policy and field work
- Pharmaceutical research and sales
- Applied research
Recent Employers
- University of Iowa Hospitals
- Mayo Clinic
- Epic Systems
- Integrated DNA Technologies
- Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
- US Geological Survey
- US Fish and Wildlife Service
Many of our biology graduates go on to graduate school or professional programs. They hold advanced degrees in fields from pharmacology to ecology, entomology to immunology.
Those interested in medical school or health-related careers often major in biology. They frequently obtain careers as:
- Physicians
- Physician assistants
- Dentists
- Optometrists
- Physical therapist
- Podiatrists
- Veterinary medicine doctors
If you’re planning for a career in the health sciences, you’ll leave Luther well-prepared for further education.
Real World Biology
Luther College microbiology students tackle real-world issues in the lab. They are testing soil in northeast Iowa to help solve the antibiotic resistance crisis.
Formal Affiliations
Prepare for careers in clinical lab science, nuclear medicine technology, or cytotechnology. Complete the necessary Luther coursework in three years. Your fourth year will be at an affiliated hospital in clinical preparatory courses. You’ll receive your degree from Luther and take board exams to become certified.
