The biology department at College of Notre Dame of Maryland considers the classroom to be a springboard for hands-on opportunities to practice biology.

Courses provide a broad view of the biological sciences that is consistent with the liberal arts tradition of the College. The flexible curriculum incorporates emerging areas of cellular and molecular biology and integrates these with traditional organismal principles. Small classes provide an environment conducive to scholarly discourse and independent learning. Biology majors investigate a topic of interest within a senior year capstone course that emphasizes the interpretation and critical analysis of the primary literature. The biology department seminar series features scientists from local institutions, including the National Institutes of Health, National Aquarium in Baltimore and Smithsonian Institution.

Courses throughout the curriculum—from the introductory level through those in the upper divisions—provide students with opportunities to learn about science by conducting course-related, independent research. Through on-campus research facilities, students may continue projects initiated in their courses or explore new research interests under the mentorship of Notre Dame faculty or those at participating institutions. The Baltimore-Washington, D.C., area provides many venues for career-related internships in the biological sciences or in medical and allied health fields. Through cooperative programs, Notre Dame students participate in biomedical research at The Johns Hopkins University and in conservation studies on sea turtles in Mexico and primate studies in Florida.

The biology department prepares students for medical, dental, veterinary, and graduate schools, and for secondary education teaching certification. Our graduates successfully gain employment in research laboratories, medical and government facilities, environmental fields, pharmaceutical companies, and other industries. In conjunction with The Johns Hopkins University, the department also offers a dual-degree program in nursing. The biology department welcomes community college students. Human Biology I and II and Microbiology are among the courses that routinely transfer for credit.