Biology, Ohio State's largest major, is part of the Center for Life Sciences Education. Biology is the science that studies the processes fundamental to all forms of life. Biology strives to answer questions such as: How do biochemical processes control a cell’s behavior? How do organisms grow and reproduce? How do pollutants threaten certain life forms? How can human life be sustained and lengthened by medical advances? The biology major is designed to expose students to a broad base of biological knowledge, to provide depth of experience in advanced topics, and to develop competence in scientific disciplines that are supportive of the life sciences (mathematics, physics, and chemistry). The biology major is a stepping stone from which students may go into research, various health professions, teaching, business, or service in government or independent agencies.

Biology students often choose careers as research scientists or college professors, for which students must first obtain a PhD. In the private sector, a master’s degree may be sufficient for a research or product-development position. Some biology majors, particularly those with research experience, find research assistant positions directly after obtaining their bachelor’s degrees. Many biology students go on to careers in medicine or some other health profession. While a major in the biological sciences is not a requirement for medical school (or other professional schools in the health sciences), it has many advantages with its exposure to the basic principles of life’s processes and the theoretical underpinnings of sophisticated medical procedures. Some students move into other science careers such as education (K–12), business (e.g., pharmaceutical sales), or jobs in nature centers, parks and recreation, or government.