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2020 Best Colleges for Biology in AmericaAbout this List

The Best Colleges for Biology ranking is based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education. The ranking compares the top degree programs for biology majors including ecology, marine biology, microbiology, biotechnology, botany, and pre-medicine programs. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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  1. Harvard University

    • 4 Year
    • Cambridge, MA
    • 714 reviews
    #1 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Freshman: Harvard is incredible! The campus is vibrant and there are always tourists. It is especially busy during fall because the foliage is beautiful. The professors are very knowledgeable. Most write their own textbooks, so they truly know what they are teaching. The students are also great; they are intellectual, fun, and laidback. It is a great experience studying here!
    Read 714 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,030 Net Price
    • 1460-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  2. Stanford University

    • 4 Year
    • Stanford, CA
    • 1,164 reviews
    #2 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Freshman: Stanford's motto, "The wind of freedom blows," seems to permeate through all classroom walls, dorm rooms, and dining halls as students at this school are passionate, diligent, and lively. There is definitely a culture distinct to Stanford University, one which embodies free-spirited, unbounded learning. Aside from academics, though, I'd have to say that what makes Stanford unique is its people. Times when I've felt inspired, moved, and at home, were in moments I shared with others in discussions or conversations, whether it was academic or truly frivolous.
    Read 1,164 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,562 Net Price
    • 1390-1540 SAT Range
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  3. Yale University

    • 4 Year
    • New Haven, CT
    • 981 reviews
    #3 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Senior: Great college! They say the more options you have the more regrets you'll have, and that has been true of my Yale experience. While I do not regret doing the things I did do, I do wish I had more than 24 hours in a day so I could do even more! There is so much to do in terms of career development, extra-curriculars, and just entertainment in general. There are so many classes to choose from and most of the professors are incredible not just as professors, but as people in general. If I could redo college I would definitely choose Yale again!
    Read 981 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,053 Net Price
    • 1460-1580 SAT Range
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  4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Cambridge, MA
    • 619 reviews
    #4 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: MIT is an outstanding university with numerous and diverse opportunities in research and academics. Classes at MIT are indeed difficult, with homework and associated studying consuming a large chunk of time. The beauty of this is that it pushes students to go above and beyond their previous understanding of what they believed themselves to be capable of. Additionally, the explorative and creative atmosphere which springs from the vibrancy of the student body and the faculty is second to none. There are so many chances to do great things at MIT, even as an undergrad!
    Read 619 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,230 Net Price
    • 1490-1570 SAT Range
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  5. Duke University

    • 4 Year
    • Durham, NC
    • 1,088 reviews
    #5 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Sophomore: Duke is a great place to come for vast opportunities, career exploration, professional development and more. You can literally try anything here! It's so flexible. Campus is beautiful, the food options are plentiful, and research experiences are readily available. The academic advising here is amazing as well.
    Read 1,088 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,011 Net Price
    • 1380-1540 SAT Range
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  6. Brown University

    • 4 Year
    • Providence, RI
    • 985 reviews
    #6 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: Brown University has been an incredible experience and has allowed me to pursue passions that I wasn't even aware I was interested in! The unique open curriculum allows students to take courses from a broad range of subjects and helps to ensure they find the right area of study. I personally believed I wanted to go into biomedical engineering, however, after taking a variety of classes at Brown in environmental studies, I have switched my major. Every teacher, student, and dean is so incredibly passionate about the work and everyone is constantly striving to be better which makes the University an amazing place and experience!
    Read 985 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,651 Net Price
    • 1400-1570 SAT Range
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  7. Vanderbilt University

    • 4 Year
    • Nashville, TN
    • 1,235 reviews
    #7 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Sophomore: What I love about Vanderbilt is the commitment to creating a meaningful & memorable experience. Ever since stepping foot on campus - when I was met by my freshman Head of House and the Move Crew - I've been supported and welcomed. I've been encouraged to pursue my interests in and outside of the classroom and attended countless events.

    Sometimes it feels like there are too many things to get involved in, especially with the weight of academics on our shoulders, but not everyone experiences this the same way. One of my favorite things is the identity centers like the Women's Center, Black Cultural Center and KC Potter (LGBTQ) Center who provide students with fun and informative programming and the comforts of home. Plus, can you ever go wrong living at an arboretum?

    I mean this honestly (but always a little ironically), Anchor Down!
    Read 1,235 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 11% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,295 Net Price
    • 1440-1570 SAT Range
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  8. Princeton University

    • 4 Year
    • Princeton, NJ
    • 425 reviews
    #8 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Niche User: I greatly enjoy the overall ambience of Princeton University. The University truly offers a high quality education, especially as a result of its wonderful professors, some of which are Nobel Laureates. Moreover, the University's network allows for extensive connection between current and graduated students. This leads to great opportunities that would not necessarily be available elsewhere. Lastly, I really believe the Bridge Year program instills a humble nature in students through introducing the opportunity to volunteer for a year abroad. Doing so allows students to mature and experience other cultures prior to embarking on a difficult, yet rewarding task of attending Princeton University.
    Read 425 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 6% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,302 Net Price
    • 1430-1570 SAT Range
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  9. Washington University in St. Louis

    • 4 Year
    • Saint Louis, MO
    • 1,438 reviews
    #9 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Graduate Student: I'm currently enrolled in the Masters of Legal Studies Program. I'm thoroughly enjoying this program. WashU offers a number of classes in various legal fields. I've taken courses in tort law, contracts, intellectual property law, legal negotiations, legal writing & legal procedures & court hearings. The Masters program is 100% online. The virtual experience is phenomenal. It's like being in an actual class, but at home. This program is very diverse. Through this program, I've connected with different students from Asia, Europe, Africa and the various parts of the United States. The professors are knowledgeable and professionally accomplished in the legal field. The program is fast paced, intriguing and fun. You can complete this program in one to two years. I started in January 2019 and I'm graduating in May 2020. CHOOSE WASHU! The investment is well worth it and WashU is one of the best law schools in the world.
    Read 1,438 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,777 Net Price
    • 1470-1570 SAT Range
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  12. Rice University

    • 4 Year
    • Houston, TX
    • 1,030 reviews
    #10 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Sophomore: The culture at Rice is amazing! We are a diverse community of scholars who value collaboration, not cut-throat competition. We value what known as a "culture of care," and I believe this makes us unique from all other elite schools. The professors are amazing, classes push you and challenge former beliefs, and the community becomes family. Rice University is an amazing place, even with intense academics.
    Read 1,030 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,131 Net Price
    • 1490-1580 SAT Range
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  13. Columbia University

    • 4 Year
    • New York, NY
    • 1,189 reviews
    #11 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Freshman: Columbia is a culturally rich and diverse school with a beautiful campus in one of the most influential cities in the world. The endless amount of opportunities provided here can be overwhelming! There is a place for everyone on this campus, with clubs, sports, and other organizations for every individual.
    Read 1,189 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,824 Net Price
    • 1410-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  14. University of Pennsylvania

    • 4 Year
    • Philadelphia, PA
    • 1,205 reviews
    #12 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Sophomore: A true research institution, the University of Pennsylvania encourages all of its students to be curious about the world. Fund their research, it provides once in a lifetime opportunities with access to remarkable faculty, an international reach, and trail blazing peers. As a member of the Ivy League, it connects its study body to similar-minded students in a culture of alma matter pride, playful rivalry, and inter-school dependent programming. Whether it be an Ivy League conference on LatinX heritage, political science, or veganism, the University of Pennsylvania encourages curiosity at every seam of the institution’s fabric.
    Read 1,205 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,539 Net Price
    • 1420-1560 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  15. Northwestern University

    • 4 Year
    • Evanston, IL
    • 1,354 reviews
    #13 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Niche User: I have been to the Evanston campus once, but in that visit I was astounded by the various opportunities offered by the university. Every program, whether that be the musical program, theater, biology, medicine, or integrated science, was fleshed out to a point of great immersion and understanding. Not to mention that there was an overall atmosphere of learning and curiosity. Highly recommend!
    Read 1,354 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,099 Net Price
    • 1420-1560 SAT Range
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  16. Cornell University

    • 4 Year
    • Ithaca, NY
    • 1,865 reviews
    #14 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Sophomore: Cornell is an amazing blend of people from various cultures who have come to one place for the purpose of pursing an education. I come from a very small town in Maryland. Coming to Cornell has allowed me to experience different cultures in lots of new ways. However, I believe that Cornell could work on accepting people not only from diverse backgrounds, but also from various socioeconomic statuses. I am middle class. My father is a principle of and I am grateful to have a well-supported family. Many Cornell students are in top-earning families. Currently, I am taking a class called “Controversies About Inequality.” I have learned that Cornell accepts more students from the top 1% than they are from the bottom 1%, and this cycle continues. I would like to point out that Cornell is very aware of this issue and is taking steps towards leveling the playing field for both high and low income students. And the food is absolutely amazing here, so that’s a huge plus!
    Read 1,865 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $31,449 Net Price
    • 1390-1550 SAT Range
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  17. Johns Hopkins University

    • 4 Year
    • Baltimore, MD
    • 1,274 reviews
    #15 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: Yes, Hopkins is stressful (yay stress culture) and yes, it has its issues. However, I feel as thought Hopkins truly excelled in the areas that matter to me. I feel like there are genuinely some many different types of people that making friends shouldn't be hard for everyone, that professors are helpful and willing to work with you, and that there is plenty of research!
    The real key to success here, as in any other school, is to do your work early, reach out to teachers and TAs and chill out!
    At Hopkins your experience is truly what you make it.
    Read 1,274 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,066 Net Price
    • 1450-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  18. University of Chicago

    • 4 Year
    • Chicago, IL
    • 1,169 reviews
    #16 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Sophomore: The University of Chicago has an incredibly welcoming and yet challenging atmosphere that is unlike any other. The Core Curriculum introduces truly applicable frameworks for critical thinking that can the applied in a diverse curriculum. At UChicago you can attend your Physics lecture in the morning, work on your film project until you participate in a religious discussion in the afternoon and rehearse with your traditional African music group in the evening. In spite of the lack of affordability, UChicago does offer various ways of financing, including generous financial aid and merit-based scholarships. However, Uchicago is not need bling to international applicants, which is likely to discourage low-income international students to apply.
    Read 1,169 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $34,834 Net Price
    • 1480-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  19. California Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Pasadena, CA
    • 118 reviews
    #17 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Niche User: I loved visiting caltech! I loved the campus, it was so beautiful. The houses each had their own personality, and cool traditions! I got to play tennis on the courts there and stay with some other girls in the houses themselves. We staying in flemming house and spent a lot of time in the common room! We also were able to tour the academic facilities and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which is associated with Caltech and it was truly inspiring to see. We were given the opportunity to see current projects in JPL like the 2020 mars rover! I cannot wait to apply!
    Read 118 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,466 Net Price
    • 1530-1590 SAT Range
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  22. University of Southern California

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 3,632 reviews
    #18 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: Being a student at the University of Southern California is like no other. The campus is beautiful and the academics are stellar. The whole school feels like one big family. The athletic programs are top notch and really bring all the students together. I love being able to attend countless games while seeing cheering fans who truly love where they go to school. The best part about the University of Southern California is the Trojan alumni. With over 425,000 Trojan alumni in the world, you are always connected to a Trojan. The wonderful Trojan alumni are there for you beyond your four years. They give opportunities to advance in your desired career field, as well as be there in a new environment. No other university is this connected between current students and alumni. I am proud to attend USC, where academics, athletics and alumni blend together making the ultimate college experience!
    Read 3,632 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,892 Net Price
    • 1300-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  23. Dartmouth College

    • 4 Year
    • Hanover, NH
    • 694 reviews
    #19 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: It is hard to imagine a better college than Dartmouth. The mix of academics, clubs and outdoor activities, and social scene is (in my opinion) unparalleled. Everyone is academically driven, and I feel like I can have an intellectual conversation with anyone on campus. There is a sport, club, or outdoor activity for everyone at the college, as most people I know are heavily involved in at least 2 extracurricular clubs. Lastly, the social scene is fun and inclusive. There are different frats and sororities for different all types of preferences, and every house has an "open door" policy. There is little to no social hierarchy that I've noticed (Football players aren't treated differently from comp sci geeks), making it so that anyone can be friends with anyone.

    One additional note: sophomore summer is the best term of all time! Look it up.
    Read 694 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,303 Net Price
    • 1430-1560 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  24. Georgetown University

    • 4 Year
    • Washington, DC
    • 1,162 reviews
    #20 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: Georgetown University is an incredible university with top-notch professors and academic programs. Professors DO seem preoccupied with their research, but most genuinely care about students. Perhaps the most difficult aspect of the university is connected to how pre-professional it is. This can translated to club culture. People are more focused on getting jobs after graduation than most other schools. This is connected to Georgetown's return on investment, however. Well worth coming!
    Read 1,162 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,420 Net Price
    • 1350-1520 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?|Compare

  25. University of Notre Dame

    • 4 Year
    • Notre Dame, IN
    • 1,289 reviews
    #21 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Freshman: The thing that stood out to me about the University of Notre Dame was my professors! They have all been willing to go the extra mile in order to teach, be it holding long office hours and staying later or staying back long after class has ended, especially before exams. Their passion not only for the subject but for our education really helped me through some tough courses. Furthermore, the community is excellent. Notre Dame is truly a family, and dorm communities are very distinct and strong. Each dorm has its own mascots and colors and become a part of a person's identity. It is similar to Greek life but without the negatives of rushing and hazing. Everybody is very kind and inclusive.
    Read 1,289 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 19% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,453 Net Price
    • 1370-1520 SAT Range
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  26. Pomona College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 375 reviews
    #22 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Freshman: Pomona students are so accomplished, but they are always so willing to help. The professors also really go out of their way to ensure that students feel supported. Graduate schools really know Pomona and the seniors are doing so many great things. The best part is that these seniors keep first years in the loop and are willing to share so much about their work. The atmosphere is intense in terms of academics, but the competition is against yourself!
    Read 375 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,427 Net Price
    • 1370-1530 SAT Range
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  29. Tufts University

    • 4 Year
    • Medford, MA
    • 979 reviews
    #23 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Freshman: As a freshman at Tufts, I am constantly blown alway by endless opportunities available to undergraduate students at various academic departments, student-run organizations, and Tisch College of Civic Engagement. Students are here to learn from a wide range of perspectives and always listen carefully to one another to reexamine their thoughts. Even in today's political divisiveness, I find Tufts students relatively open-minded and tolerant to perspectives and thoughts that might be contrary to their own. Furthermore, as a student who plans on majoring in International Relations, I am always struck by how organized the program is here at Tufts. Professors and students are experts in their field, and I can easily see future diplomats and leading scholars in my classroom. There are conferences at the Fletcher school almost every week where leading scholars and researchers come and speak. I love Tufts!
    Read 979 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 15% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,449 Net Price
    • 1410-1540 SAT Range
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  30. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

    • 4 Year
    • Ann Arbor, MI
    • 4,135 reviews
    #24 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: Overall, the University of Michigan is a very strong academic choice. Professors generally care about their students and wish to see them succeed and departmental advisors are incredibly helpful in finding the right classes for you. Once you get past intro level classes, the material and class sizes become much more enjoyable. The dorms are hit-and-miss with some having air conditioning and are newly renovated while some are very clearly in need of improvement. Their ability to handle transfer students is lacking, though, and the general advisors are not well-equipped to handle transfer cases.
    Like any university, there many different types of people. Some are irritating, some are lovely. It is just a matter of seeking out those who you want to make friends with, they are definitely out there and most everyone you meet will be very nice along the way!
    Read 4,135 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 27% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,408 Net Price
    • 1330-1500 SAT Range
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  31. Emory University

    • 4 Year
    • Atlanta, GA
    • 1,483 reviews
    #25 Best Colleges for Biology in America

    Junior: I am a third year varsity student athlete at Emory University, and I am glad I chose Emory. The campus is great, the academics and athletic programs are amazing as well. However, Emory is not the place to come if you want football and school spirit. This is a highly academic school and whatever you choose to study will be a challenge. Campus life is easy to get involved in, however since it is a small campus, a lot of the activities get old after freshman year. The Atlanta area around campus and night life is great if Emory parties start getting old. Definitely consider what your priorities are before choosing Emory. If challenging academics and quality professors are important, then this is the school for you. However, if football, school spirit, and other aspects of college life are important, then take this all into consideration before committing to Emory! If you are unsure, then I definitely recommend taking a tour of our campus!
    Read 1,483 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 22% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,867 Net Price
    • 1350-1520 SAT Range
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    Lake Superior State University

    • 4 Year
    • Sault Ste Marie, MI
    • 523 reviews

    Senior: Lake State has an amazing small campus feel. It's possible to get to class from any of the dorms in just five minutes! (If you're determined enough. Ten is more accurate, but speedwalking into class can be really fun!)
     All of the professors are amazing and really know their stuff. They are often available and it's possible to form a really close relationship with them. The professors are also super passionate about what they're teaching, which makes a huge difference when you're trying to learn a hard subject.
    It's also really easy to make friends on campus. There's clubs, sports, Greek life, intramurals, and you get to know your classmates in general! There is no way to walk across campus without running into at least one person you know.
    Don't let the snow deter you, this is a great place to go to school and make life-long friends!
    Read 523 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 58% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,220 Net Price
    • 1070-1260 SAT Range
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    Samford University

    • 4 Year
    • Birmingham, AL
    • 716 reviews

    Sophomore: Samford is amazing, the campus is great and surrounding community makes it even better. The academics can be challenging but for the most part professors are there to help you succeed and bend their schedules for students. There are plenty of activities and ways to get involved on/off campus. One of the main things that could improve is the housing, most of it is old and very expensive. It is still nice though and cleaned regularly. Overall for me, Samford is 10/10!
    Read 716 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 83% Acceptance Rate
    • $30,017 Net Price
    • 1080-1280 SAT Range
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    Texas Christian University

    • 4 Year
    • Fort Worth, TX
    • 1,554 reviews

    Senior: Texas Christian University embodies a unique social and academic culture that has allowed me to grow in more ways that I would have ever imagined. Students are confident and passionate to pursue their deep desires. I love the wide variety of opportunities the school offers to be involved on campus or in the Fort Worth community. Class size is medium to small, which is perfect for discussions and getting to know the professors. The population is small enough to feel like a family, yet large enough to get the full "college" experience. TCU can also be challenging, because you are surrounded by high achievers and competition. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to compare to people around you, but ultimately it has spurred me on to be the best version of me. TCU is a world-changing place!
    Read 1,554 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 41% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,363 Net Price
    • 1130-1330 SAT Range
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