Biology is the study of life from the simplest forms of plants and animals to the highly complex structure of the human being. It includes the study of how organisms are structured, and how they function and relate to each other.
The biology curriculum at Carthage prepares students for graduate study, academic and industrial research positions, secondary education, quality assurance, forensic science, environmental work, and careers in conservation, as well as entry into medical, veterinary, dental, and other professional schools.
Personal Attention
When you study biology at Carthage, personal attention is assured. Classes average 17 students, and professors, not teaching assistants, teach all classes and labs. Your professors will know you by name and take a genuine interest in your personal and professional success.
Independent Research Experience
Biology majors are strongly encouraged to undertake an independent research project under the guidance of a Carthage faculty member or a faculty member at one of several local graduate or medical schools. Students can perform research during the academic semester or during the summer. Students who choose to do summer research through the Carthage SURE program can receive a stipend and free room and board. They may also perform research at another institution.
Facilities and Equipment
Carthage students get extensive hands-on experience with the latest equipment in modern biology. Some of the equipment available to the students for both laboratory course work and independent research is indicated below:
• ABI 373 automated DNA sequencer
• Zeiss EM10 Transmission Electron Microscope
• Joel 35 Scanning Electron Microscope
• Pharmacia FPLC Chromatography System
• Extensive equipment for molecular biology
Getting Down to Business
As a biology major, you will have the opportunity to pursue ScienceWorks, an innovative program offered at Carthage that focuses on developing skills necessary for success in a science-based business. The ScienceWorks program offers a minor in Entrepreneurial Students in the Natural Sciences. Students complete an internship and coursework that integrates important skills such as written and oral communication, graphics and artwork, business accounting, management, marketing and more.
Bright Future
A biology major is excellent preparation for a variety of careers or further study in graduate school. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, beginning salary offers in 2007 averaged $34,953 a year for bachelor's degree recipients in biological and life sciences. Median annual earnings of biochemists and biophysicists were $76,320 in 2006. The average salary for physicians is approximately $200,000. Recent Carthage College graduates are employed locally by Abbott Laboratories, SC Johnson, the Medical College of Wisconsin, and the Kenosha Unified School District.
Academic Resources
Prospective Students
News
Research Opportunities
SURE
Summer Undergraduate Research Experience lets students work one-on-one with a faculty mentor.
J-Term in Nicaragua
This annual trip allows Carthage students to explore the geography of Ometepe, and treat patients in the island's medical clinics. Watch the video.
Faculty Spotlight
Biology professor Thomas Carr, vertebrate paleontologist, featured in National Geographic Channel special. Read more.
Carthage College
2001 Alford Park Drive
Kenosha, WI 53140
262-551-8500
webmaster@carthage.edu
Maps and directions
