Recommendations for top Illinois colleges for a biology degree?

I'm a junior in high school trying to figure out where to apply. I'm planning on majoring in biology and would love to hear recommendations for good schools in Illinois that have a strong program.

When discussing top biology programs in Illinois, a few schools immediately come to mind.

At the forefront is the University of Chicago. Its Biological Sciences Division is particularly robust, and the strength of the university's commitment to research cannot be overstated. Their small class sizes, world-renowned faculty, and access to a wealth of research opportunities at associated facilities lead many to rank it among the best in the country.

Not far behind is Northwestern University. The Integrated Science Program (ISP) at Northwestern might be of interest to you. This highly selective program provides an incredibly rigorous and interdisciplinary education in the sciences, which could be a great fit for a dedicated biology student seeking a challenging program.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign also has a strong biology program. The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology provides several specialized tracks within the biology major, including Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Microbiology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Biochemistry, allowing students to hone their focus according to their interests.

For a smaller, more intimate setting, you might want to consider Illinois Wesleyan University. Despite being a smaller liberal arts college, it still maintains a strong Biology department with ample undergraduate research opportunities.

Remember, when considering the best fit for you, factors such as size of the institution, research opportunities, faculty accessibility, and even financial aid availability should be considered alongside the strength of the department. Good luck with your college search!