In addition to a solid education in the biological sciences, our majors receive the strong liberal arts education that has long been the tradition at Duquesne University. The curricula prepare our students to enter graduate or professional schools, or to directly enter the job market. Undergraduate majors have both a faculty mentor and an academic advisor to help them plan their academic program and obtain advice on career options. Most careers in biology require both laboratory skills and mastery of subject matter. Accordingly, the Department of Biological Sciences strongly encourages undergraduates to engage in laboratory research as part of their science education.
Students work on research projects under the direct supervision of faculty mentors.
Undergraduate research can be taken for credit during the academic year and summer, and financial compensation is also available. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students, aiding them in the selection of a career. The department has an active summer undergraduate research program. The program culminates in an undergraduate research symposium, with each student presenting their research in a talk or poster format. It is not unusual for Duquesne Biology students to present their research at national or international scientific meetings, and to have their work published on prominent scientific journals.