Compare two majors
Pick any two majors to see courses, skills, and typical career roles side by side. Useful if you're weighing two options that sound similar, like Computer Science vs. Data Science, or Biology vs. Biochemistry.
Biological & Life Sciences
Microbiology
The study of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms.
Typical courses
- ✓General Biology & Chemistry
- ✓Microbiology
- ✓Immunology
- ✓Virology
- ✓Microbial Genetics
- ✓Molecular Biology
Skills you'll build
Sterile lab technique and microbial culturingUnderstanding infectious disease and immune responseMolecular and genetic analysis techniquesData interpretation from lab experimentsScientific writing and lab documentationApplying microbiology to public health contextsCareful, methodical experimental practice
Good fit if you...
- ★Fascinated by the microscopic world and infectious disease
- ★Enjoys precise, methodical lab work
- ★Interested in public health, medicine, or research
- ★Comfortable with a heavy science course load
Roles this could lead to
Biological & Life Sciences
Biology
The broad study of living things, from cells to ecosystems.
Typical courses
- ✓General Biology I & II
- ✓General Chemistry
- ✓Organic Chemistry
- ✓Genetics
- ✓Cell Biology
- ✓Ecology & Evolution
Skills you'll build
Laboratory technique and scientific methodData collection and analysisUnderstanding biological systems across scalesScientific writing and literature reviewHypothesis testing and experimental designMicroscopy and lab instrumentationCritical evaluation of scientific claims
Good fit if you...
- ★Curious about how living things work, broadly
- ★Enjoys lab work and hands-on experimentation
- ★Comfortable with a heavy science and math course load
- ★Wants flexibility before committing to a specific health or science path
Roles this could lead to
This comparison covers what each field of study typically includes. It's not a ranking, and it isn't a guarantee of course availability or outcomes at any specific school. See our disclaimer.