The Department of Biological Sciences at Clemson University addresses diverse research challenges across biological scales "from molecules to ecosystems"; educates the next generation of engaged scientists, health professionals, educators, and leaders; develops biological literacy in our community and state; and actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and individual growth. We aim to be nationally
recognized for our excellence in discovery, inquiry-based learning, signature student experiences, fostering understanding of life, and encouragement of individual growth. We boast one of the largest enrollments of undergraduate majors (1600+) of any department on campus. We offer BS degrees in Microbiology and Biological Sciences and a BA in Biological Sciences for those who seek a broader liberal arts experience. The department also supports three thriving graduate programs: Biological Sciences, Environmental Toxicology, and Microbiology. There is ample opportunity for financial support for our students, either as a research assistant or as one of our approximately 70 teaching assistants. We also have over 190 students in our online MS in Biological Sciences. This program is designed specifically for teachers and other science educators. The curriculum consists of 30 credits of graduate courses that are relevant, rigorous and challenging, and are specifically designed to improve biology-content knowledge. We also support the Bob and Betsy Museum of Natural History, which houses a variety of vertebrate and plant collections for teaching, research, and outreach. Many of our faculty are involved with the Eukaryotic Pathogen Innovation Center (EPIC) and the Center for Human Genetics. Research in the Department is supported by the Clemson Genomics and Bioinformatics Facility and the Clemson Light Imaging Facility. We also use the Clemson Experimental Forest for research, teaching, and recreation. For community engagement, we work with the Science Outreach Center and run the annual Biology Merit Exam, which recognizes and promotes outstanding achievement in biological sciences among middle and high school students in South Carolina. We are excited about a new program called “Something Very Fishy”, which is a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) outreach program for elementary school children that teaches about climate change, ocean health, and personal responsibility. Visit https://www.clemson.edu/science/departments/biosci/ to learn more about the Department of Biological Sciences at Clemson University!
