Biology Program at Ithaca College

Hey guys, I'm super into Biology and hoping to major in it. I was looking into Ithaca College and wondered if anyone could share their experience or knowledge about the Biology program there? Would appreciate any insight!

Ithaca College offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. While both programs provide a good foundation in biological sciences, the B.A. offers a more liberal arts-focused curriculum which is usually pursued by students interested in combining biology with other areas of study. The B.S. degree is designed for those interested in a career in a biology-related field or further study in graduate or professional school.

The biology curriculum at Ithaca College is comprehensive and rigorous, providing students with a solid grounding in the biological sciences. You'd be learning about everything from molecular biology and genetics to ecology and evolution.

One of the strengths of the program is their emphasis on "learning by doing." An important part of that is their undergraduate research opportunities, which enable students to engage in hands-on scientific research under the guidance of a faculty member. These experiences can be quite influential, as they provide practical, real-world experience in the field.

In addition, the program offers opportunities for fieldwork and internships that can provide valuable hands-on experience in a real-world setting. These opportunities can help clarify career interests and create connections in the industry.

Ultimately, it's important to connect with current students or alumni of the program to get a better feel for the program's environment and opportunities. You can also check whether they have student clubs related to biology, where you can interact with like-minded peers and participate in biology-focused activities or events. This could significantly enhance your academic experience.

Moreover, you might want to consider reaching out to the department directly. Faculty or advisors in the program would be more than happy to answer your questions and provide additional information. It's also not a bad idea to glance through the course catalogs and syllabi available online, as they can give you a clear idea of what you'd be studying.

Finally, while academic fit is crucial, also consider other aspects of the college experience - student culture, location, extracurricular opportunities, financial aspects, etc., to ensure that Ithaca is a good fit for you holistically.