The major is organized around the hierarchical organizational structures of living organisms within an overarching theme of the evolution of living things. Students are required to take three introductory courses dealing with cell form and function, the form and function of organisms, and the ways in which populations of organisms interact with each other and their environment. More advanced coursework is completed by selecting courses from the three organizational levels of cellular-molecular, organismal, and populations. Major requirements also include research-intensive courses, a senior seminar, and courses in general chemistry and math.