Biology is the science of life. The study of biology encompasses molecular, cellular, and physiological processes, evolutionary diversity, ecological relationships, and global systems. Biologists study life from prehistoric times to organisms alive today and model how life may change in the future. Build a strong foundation in the sciences. Use options to focus on depth and breadth of interest areas. Courses cover biology, including molecular and cell biology, physiology and development of animals and plants, conservation biology, disease biology, genetics and genomics, taxonomy and systematics, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Small class sizes in advanced courses. Opportunities for one-on-one research with biology faculty, including field and laboratory experiences. Gain skills in research design, data analysis, DNA and cell biological techniques, physiological diagnostics, ecological and environmental assessment, phylogenetic and evolutionary analysis, global complex systems analysis, computer modeling and simulations, scientific writing, and professional communications. Prepare for graduate and professional schools. Math, science, and engineering community residence halls with other entering students in shared classes provide opportunities for group study, free tutoring, and computer lab access. Conner Museum of Natural History and Marion Ownbey Herbarium offer specimens of animals and plants for research and study.<br><br>Botany, a specialization in the biology major, focuses on the scientific study of plants. Modern botany is a diverse and frequently applied science. The biology degree program and the botany option provide a strong background in plant diversity and phylogenetics, unique structure and function relationships, genetics, evolution, ecology, and plants and the environment. It also covers applied topics with application to biotechnology and agriculture, such as the genetic engineering of food crops and biomass and biofuel production.