An important component of the Biology Department, in addition to the formal course work, is the opportunity to work independently on a reading and/or research project under the supervision of a faculty member, and receive credit towards graduation.

Normally this is done during the junior and senior years, and qualified students may earn up to 12 semester hours of credit towards the 124 hours needed to graduate. Students also have the opportunity to do research with the Biology Department faculty during the Summer months. Students from Bradley and other Colleges and Universities have participated in the NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program during the past three Summers.

Sometimes, the products of student scholorship has been of such high quality that it has been published in scientific journals. In addition, students can present the results of their work at departmental seminars. Needless to say, participation in undergraduate research enhances one's chances considerably when applying to graduate schools, as well as medical and other professional schools.

In addition to research opportunities for upperclass students, the Biology Department has a Mentors Program for outstanding freshmen and sophomores. Students accepted into this program generally have an ACT of 30 or better (SAT of 1300 or better) or an advanced placement Biology score of 4 or 5. Each student is assigned to a research mentor and attends a weekly seminar. Students can earn up to 3 credit hours during their first three semesters. Thereafter, they can continue to do research in the regular upperclass program if they desire.