The major is organized around the hierarchical structure 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 cellular and molecular, organismal, and population focused courses. Major requirements also include research-intensive courses and a senior seminar.