DRAFT - Biology Major at USMA - Standard - SO

Biology Major

Biology

Major

The Biology major at West Point provides a rigorous foundation in life sciences, preparing cadets to tackle global challenges in health, environmental security, and biotechnology. Through courses in genetics, physiology, and microbiology combined with hands-on research and leadership development, you’ll gain the scientific expertise and ethical decision-making skills to innovate and lead in military, medical, and scientific fields.

Offered by the Department of Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering

Biology: Where Curiosity Meets Real-World Impact

The Biology major is the foundation of life sciences, driving breakthroughs in health, environmental security, and biotechnology. Understanding biological systems empowers you to tackle global challenges - from disease prevention to sustainability - while sharpening analytical and problem-solving skills that translate into success in any mission.

The West Point Advantage

At the United States Military Academy, biology is not just a subject. It’s a strategic advantage. You'll gain scientific expertise while developing critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills. The program combines rigorous academics with practical application while integrating purposeful leadership into every experience, preparing you to excel in dynamic, high-stakes environments.

Integrated military focus

  • Combine your passion for biological sciences with mission-driven applications that strengthen national defense.
  • Gain the skills to apply scientific knowledge in real-world operational and leadership roles.

Hands-on research

  • Step into immersive lab and field experiences where theory becomes action.
  • Drive innovation through projects that tackle military and global challenges head-on.

Ethics and innovation

  • Build a career grounded in ethical responsibility while advancing cutting-edge science and technology.
  • Shape solutions that balance bold innovation with integrity and accountability.

Mentorship that matters

  • Learn from experienced faculty and military leaders who are invested in your success.
  • Forge lasting mentor relationships that guide your academic journey and career progression.
  • Their commitment to your growth reflects the academy’s mission: to develop leaders of character who inspire trust and achieve results.

The Foundation to Solve Tomorrow's Challenges

West Point’s approach to a Biology major ensures you graduate ready to innovate, inspire, and succeed in:

Military medicine and health sciences

  • Serve as an Army Medical Corps officer, applying biological knowledge to improve soldier health and performance.
  • Support preventive medicine programs to reduce disease risk in deployed environments.

Biodefense and environmental security

  • Develop strategies to counter biological threats and safeguard national security.
  • Manage environmental health programs to ensure safe water, food, and ecosystems for military operations.

Research and development for advanced technologies

  • Innovate in biotechnology for enhanced soldier resilience and medical treatments.
  • Contribute to cutting-edge research in genetics, microbiology, and bioengineering for defense

Operational planning with scientific expertise

  • Advise commanders on biological risks during missions, including disease outbreaks or environmental hazards.
  • Integrate scientific data into operational plans for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.

Information for Future Cadets

Resources for Current Cadets

Biology: Science, Strategy, and Service

Biology at USMA is more than a degree. It’s a launchpad for future military leaders, medical professionals, and scientific innovators. With a curriculum built on academic rigor, ethical leadership, and hands-on experience, this program prepares cadets to solve real-world problems with precision, purpose, and integrity.

What makes this major unique? It’s the fusion of high-tech science education with West Point’s unmatched leadership development. You’ll be mentored by distinguished military and civilian faculty who bring real-world expertise and a passion for teaching. Every course is designed to build not only your intellect, but your ability to lead in complex, high-stakes environments.

Core Foundation

The major begins with a robust foundation in chemistry, cellular biology, and physiology. These courses develop your understanding of life at the molecular and systemic levels while sharpening your analytical and ethical decision-making skills:

  • CH383 & CH384 – Organic Chemistry I & II
  • CH385 – Introduction to Cell Biology
  • CH387 – Human Physiology
  • CH388 – Genetics
  • CH457 – Microbiology
  • CH473 – Biochemistry

Complementary support courses in calculus, physics, and general chemistry ensure you’re equipped with the mathematical and scientific tools needed to excel.

Advanced and Applied Courses

West Point’s Biology curriculum emphasizes innovation and application. You’ll explore biotechnology, cyber foundations, and integrative research experiences that prepare you for the future of military science and medicine:

  • CH479 – Methods & Applications of Biotech
  • CH375 – Introduction to Biology (Science Depth)
  • CY305 & CY355 – Cyber Foundations (STEM Depth)

These courses reflect West Point’s nationally ranked programs in engineering, science, and liberal arts—designed to prepare cadets for leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

Hands-On Learning

At USMA, learning is active and immersive. You’ll conduct research, collaborate in labs, and apply your knowledge to real-world challenges. Honors students can pursue:

  • CH489 & CH490 – Individual Research I & II

Whether you're investigating cellular mechanisms or exploring biotechnology applications, you’ll be guided by faculty who are accessible, invested in your success, and committed to your growth as a scholar and leader.

Electives and Specialization

Customize your academic journey with electives that align with your interests and career goals. Choose from topics such as:

  • CH460 – Human Anatomy
  • CH450 – Bioengineering Modeling & Analysis
  • CH376 – Advanced Techniques in Light Microscopy
  • PL390 – Biological Psychology
  • NE474 – Radiological Safety

These options allow you to specialize in areas critical to military readiness, medical service, and scientific advancement.

Learn More

Biology: Outside the Classroom

At West Point, the biology major is more than a rigorous academic program. It's a gateway to real-world impact, leadership development, and national recognition. You engage in hands-on learning, cutting-edge research, and prestigious academic enrichment programs that prepare you to lead in science, medicine, and military service.

Internships

Gain hands-on experience through internships with Army research labs, medical centers, and environmental agencies. These opportunities connect classroom knowledge to military applications, from combat medicine to biosecurity and ecological resilience.

Experiential and Hands-On Learning

Biology brings classroom concepts to life through immersive labs, fieldwork, and simulations. Whether you're studying human physiology, microbiology, or biotechnology, you'll gain practical experience that builds confidence and competence.

  • Explore real-world uses for biotech applications in military and medical contexts.
  • Use high-tech equipment and advanced labs to study genetics, anatomy, and cellular biology.
  • Present your research and network with professionals at national and international science and military conferences. You’ll engage with cutting-edge ideas and represent USMA among top scholars and leaders in the life sciences.

Research and Facilities

While completing undergraduate studies, you have the opportunity to engage in lab work for CBSE and the Center for Molecular Science for academic credit. Conduct original research alongside faculty mentors in areas like microbiology, human performance, and environmental biology. Whether you're investigating disease prevention or field-based ecological systems, your work contributes to Army readiness and innovation. 

Scholarships, Honors, and Recognition

Biology majors are eligible to participate in the West Point Scholars Program, which provides personalized support for competitive national scholarships, such as:

  • Rhodes Scholarship
  • Marshall Scholarship
  • Fulbright Fellowship
  • Gates Cambridge Scholarship

The West Point Technical Scholars Program (TSP) mentors and guides cadets in pursuit of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarship as they seek national and international honors for their performance. With over 240 scholarships and fellowships, the TSP has continued to fill Army ranks with innovative leaders prepared for the challenges they will face throughout their careers.

West Point also celebrates academic excellence and leadership through:

  • Honor societies:
  • Biology honors program: Conduct independent research and graduate with distinction.
  • Departmental awards: Earn recognition for academic excellence and leadership in biology.

Learn More