BioFrontiers: Exploring the Life Sciences Spectrum
Upcoming dates (0)
Not scheduled at this time. Join the mailing list.
Program
Summary
How do discoveries in the life sciences shape the future of medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability? This course invites students to explore the diverse world of biological sciences while discovering the academic disciplines, majors, research opportunities, and career pathways available at UW–Madison and beyond. Through an examination of fields such as ecology, genetics, molecular biology, biotechnology, medical research, and environmental science, students will gain a deeper understanding of how the biological sciences contribute to solving some of society's most pressing challenges. Through lectures, hands-on activities, laboratory experiences, campus field trips, guest speakers, and interactive discussions, students will investigate how biological principles are applied in real-world settings, from healthcare and agricultural innovation to conservation and cutting-edge scientific research. Students will explore the skills, education, and emerging technologies that drive success across a wide range of biological science careers while developing an understanding of the connections among scientific discovery, innovation, and societal impact. As students explore different biological science majors and areas of study offered at UW–Madison, they will gain valuable insight into potential academic and professional pathways within the life sciences. Drawing upon their experiences throughout the course, students will synthesize their learning through a culminating career exploration project that highlights a biological science field of interest. By the end of the course, students will have developed a broad understanding of the opportunities available within the biological sciences and be better prepared to pursue future educational and career goals in this dynamic and evolving field.
Student profile
The recommended prerequisites are not required but are helpful for success in this class: Biology I, Chemistry I, optional: Algebra I. No prior experience in the biological sciences is required. Students should be prepared to participate actively in laboratory activities, field experiences, discussions, and collaborative projects while exploring the broad range of disciplines that make up the life sciences.
This course is well suited for students who are interested in learning how this subject connects to future educational and professional possibilities. Students will explore related fields of study, academic pathways, and career opportunities.
All students will need a laptop, tablet, or similar device to use for coursework in this class. We ask students to bring their own device or request to use one of the program's devices.
Important dates
Application deadlines
Application opens: Jan. 12, 2027
Deadline: Apply by May 1, 2027
Tuition deadlines
The first half of tuition is due by May 15. The second half of tuition is due by June 1.
