Biology Undergraduate Scholarships
We know that choosing the right university is about more than academics, it’s about opportunity, support, and the resources to help you succeed. Our undergraduate scholarships in biology are designed to do just that. They recognize academic excellence, leadership, research potential, and a passion for the biological sciences, while providing meaningful financial support that can make your education more affordable.
Whether you’re an incoming freshman, a transfer student, or a junior or senior looking to advance in your studies, our scholarships open doors to unique experiences, including research projects, internships, and professional development opportunities. These awards celebrate your achievements, empower you to pursue your interests, and give you the freedom to focus on what matters most: learning, growing, and preparing for a successful career in biology.
By investing in your education through CMU scholarships, you’re not just funding your degree, you’re joining a community that values your potential and is committed to helping you reach it.
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Available scholarships
The Rick L. Barber Annual Biological Scholarship
The Richard L. Barber Biology Scholarship is designed to help students expand their education and professional experiences while pursuing a degree in biology. Whether you’re interested in research projects, internships, or other hands-on opportunities, this award provides support to help you gain real-world experience in your chosen field.
Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need as indicated in FAFSA. This scholarship is non-renewable, offering one-time support that can be applied toward tuition, books, research supplies, or logistical costs associated with research and internships. Preference is given to students from northern Michigan.
Established in 2022 by Richard L. Barber, a proud CMU alumnus from the Class of 1977, this scholarship reflects Rick’s dual goals: to help students offset the financial burden of college and to encourage undergraduates to pursue meaningful research and internship experiences while enrolled. This award is more than financial support, it’s an invitation to explore your passions, grow as a scientist, and gain experiences that will shape your future career.
The Roger and Kathryn Bland Biological Research Endowed Award
The Roger and Kathryn Bland Biological Research Endowed Award is designed to support junior and senior biology majors who are passionate about research and eager to expand their hands-on experience in the biological sciences. This award celebrates students who have already demonstrated a commitment to research, whether through participation in projects at CMU, other universities, government agencies, companies, or related organizations, or who are currently enrolled in a course where active undergraduate research is the focus.
Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a clear record of involvement in biological research. This scholarship is non-renewable and can be applied toward tuition, books, research supplies, or logistical support for ongoing research projects.
Established in 2019 by Dr. Roger Bland, a retired CMU Biology Department faculty member, and his wife, Kathryn, this scholarship reflects their dedication to nurturing the next generation of researchers. By providing financial support and recognizing research achievements, the Bland Scholarship helps students gain meaningful experience, develop their skills, and advance toward careers in biology and related fields.
The Roy and Alice Burlington Undergraduate Research Biological Scholarship
The Roy F. and Alice Burlington Undergraduate Research Biological Scholarship is designed to support CMU biology majors, sophomores and above, who are passionate about hands-on research. This award celebrates students who have already demonstrated a commitment to research, whether through participation in university-sponsored projects or enrollment in courses where active biological research is the primary focus.
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a record of engagement in meaningful research experiences. This scholarship is non-renewable and can be used to support tuition, books, research supplies, or logistical costs associated with research projects.
Established in 2018 by Dr. Roy F. Burlington, professor emeritus of Biology, and his spouse Alice Burlington, this scholarship reflects their dedication to fostering undergraduate research and helping students gain the skills and experience that will shape their future careers in biology. By providing both financial support and recognition, the Burlington Scholarship empowers students to pursue their scientific passions with confidence.
Dr. Maurice H. Chapin Pre-Medicine Award
The Dr. Maurice H. Chapin Pre-Medicine Award is designed to support junior and senior biology majors who are preparing to pursue medical school (MD or DO). This award recognizes students with a strong academic record and a clear commitment to a career in medicine, helping them focus on their studies while gaining the experience and knowledge needed for success in the medical field.
Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate academic dedication in biology, chemistry, and physics courses. The scholarship is renewable for up to two years of full-time, continuous enrollment. To maintain the award, recipients must earn a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall, with at least a 3.25 in biology, chemistry, and physics courses, and complete at least one biology course per semester.
Established in 2007 by Dr. Maurice H. Chapin, CMU Class of 1951 and a retired family practice physician from the Millington area, this scholarship honors his lifelong commitment to medicine and education. By supporting aspiring medical professionals, the Chapin Scholarship helps students pursue their dreams while investing in their future careers in healthcare.
Claudia B. Douglass Science Education Award
Bring your passion for science and teaching to life with the Claudia B. Douglass Science Education Award, an award for future educators ready to inspire the next generation.
This scholarship honors exceptional sophomore, junior, and senior students majoring in elementary or secondary Integrated Science (preferred) or secondary Biology. Applicants should have a 3.5 GPA or higher, strong science grades, and meaningful experience working with children or youth.
To apply, submit a personal statement sharing your academic and career goals, why science matters in the K–12 classroom, and what makes you a strong candidate, along with a letter of recommendation highlighting your impact with children or youth.
This merit-based, renewable award, established by Dr. Claudia Douglass, former Chair of the Department of Biology, celebrates students who excel in science and are dedicated to shaping the future of education.
If you’re driven to teach, lead, and inspire, this scholarship is your chance to make that vision a reality.
Robert G. Fell Memorial Scholarship
The Robert G. Fell Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved CMU Biology professor whose passion for teaching and discovery continues to inspire students today.
This award recognizes outstanding Biology majors, freshmen through seniors, full-time or part-time, with preference given to students with a disability and those with financial need. There’s no GPA requirement, but recipients must be in good academic standing.
Renewable upon reapplication, this scholarship celebrates the spirit of Robert G. Fell, who taught invertebrate zoology at CMU from 1965 to 1983. If you’re passionate about biology and eager to make an impact, this award can help you continue your journey of learning and discovery.
Michigan Garden Club, Inc. Scholarship
The Michigan Garden Club, Inc. Scholarship supports students passionate about plants, sustainability, and the environment.
Open to full-time Biology juniors, seniors, and graduate students, this award recognizes those interested in fields like botany, horticulture, landscape design, forestry, agronomy, and land management. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain at least a 3.0 overall GPA and 3.25 in biology courses, and complete botany or foundational plant courses.
Renewable upon reapplication, this scholarship helps students grow their passion for plant science into a meaningful career in environmental and land stewardship.
Dr. W.E. and Idonea Lewis Hersee Scholarship
The Dr. W.E. and Idonea Lewis Hersee Scholarship supports CMU juniors and seniors majoring in Biology who are preparing for medical school (MD or DO). Established in 2005 in honor of Sandra’s parents, this scholarship recognizes academic excellence and dedication to a future in medicine.
Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA and the scholarship is renewable up to three times for full-time students who maintain a 3.25 GPA overall and in all biology, chemistry, and physics courses while taking at least one biology course each semester.
This award provides meaningful support for students ready to take the next step toward a career in medicine.
Olive Hutchinson-Kries Scholarship
The Olive Hutchinson-Kries Scholarship honors the legacy of a pioneering CMU botanist and recognizes outstanding Biology students.
Awarded annually to sophomores, juniors, or seniors with at least 30 CMU credit hours and a 3.5 GPA or higher, this scholarship celebrates academic excellence and dedication to the biological sciences.
Renewable upon reapplication, it provides support for students ready to pursue their passion for biology and build a future in the field.
Frank and Virjean Johnson Endowed Scholarship
The Frank and Virjean Johnson Endowed Scholarship honors academic excellence and a passion for science. Established in 2000 by CMU alumni Dr. Frank D. Johnson and M. Virjean Johnson, it recognizes outstanding sophomores, juniors, or seniors in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or science education on alternating years.
Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA or higher, and the scholarship is renewable upon reapplication. This award supports students dedicated to advancing in the sciences or inspiring the next generation through science education.
Arthur Loren Kontio Outstanding Young Biologist Award
The Arthur Loren Kontio Outstanding Young Biologist Award honors exceptional freshman, sophomore, and junior biology majors who show outstanding promise and achievement.
Created in 1993 by longtime CMU professor Loren Kontio, the award reflects his passion for teaching and his desire to encourage the next generation of biologists. Kontio, drawn to CMU for its strong aquatic biology program, taught here for over 30 years and left a lasting legacy of excellence and mentorship.
This award is by faculty nomination only and is not renewable.
Dr. David S. and Bernice A. (Nelson) Lirones Scholarship
The Dr. David S. and Bernice A. (Nelson) Lirones Scholarship supports exceptional junior and senior biology majors pursuing pre-medicine (MD) or pre-osteopathy (DO). If no students qualify, it may be awarded to a student preparing to teach science.
Recipients are full-time students with strong academic records, 3.0 GPA overall and 3.25 GPA in biology, chemistry, and physics, and take at least one biology course per semester. The scholarship is renewable for students who maintain these standards.
Established to honor CMU alumni Dr. David Lirones (Biology ’49) and Bernice Lirones (Science ’47), the award continues their legacy of excellence in medicine and education.
Kimberly Sue Mills Memorial Scholarship
The Kimberly Sue Mills Memorial Scholarship celebrates the achievements of junior and senior biology majors who are making an impact in their field. Students with a 3.0 GPA or higher are eligible, with preference given to those who advocate for the advancement of women in biology.
Established by family and friends in memory of Kimberly Sue Mills, a CMU biology student whose promising graduate studies were cut short, this scholarship honors her passion for science and dedication to the next generation of biologists.
The award can be renewed once for students who continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
Pre-Medicine and Osteopathic Society Endowed Award
The Pre-Medicine and Osteopathic Society Endowed Award recognizes outstanding students who are active, engaged members of the Society.
Eligible students are juniors with a 3.25 GPA or higher who have been active Society members for at least three semesters and have completed the initiation process. Demonstrating your commitment to the Society through participation is key to earning this recognition.
Established in 2013 by the Pre-Medicine and Osteopathic Society, this award celebrates leadership, dedication, and excellence—honoring students who are on the path to making a meaningful impact in healthcare.
This award is not renewable.
George R. Wheeler Scholarship
The George R. Wheeler Scholarship supports CMU sophomore, junior, or senior biology majors pursuing studies in outdoor environmental education, ecology, or conservation.
While there is no minimum GPA requirement, recipients must be in good academic standing. The scholarship is renewable upon reapplication, allowing students to continue their journey toward making a real-world impact.
Established in honor of George R. Wheeler, head of the Department of Conservation and Agriculture from 1947 to 1960, this award celebrates his pioneering work in conservation education and his lasting legacy at CMU.
This is your chance to carry forward that legacy while advancing your own passion for the natural world.
Daniel E. and Mildred G. Wujek Scholarship
The Daniel E. and Mildred G. Wujek Scholarship provides financial support for tuition, research supplies, fieldwork, and living expenses at biological stations. Preference is given to botany students, but all eligible applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher are encouraged to apply.
To be considered, applicants submit a detailed research prospectus, showcasing their innovative ideas and dedication to advancing biological sciences. The scholarship is renewable upon reapplication, allowing students to continue building their research projects over multiple semesters.
Established by CMU alumni Daniel E. and Mildred G. Wujek, this award honors Dr. Dan Wujek’s lifelong dedication to biology, as a graduate student and faculty member, while supporting the next generation of scientists in achieving their academic and research goals.
Dr. Kimber and Judy DeWitt Family Scholarship
The Dr. Kimber and Judy DeWitt Family Scholarship supports junior and senior biology majors who demonstrate financial need and maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher. Students from historically underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to apply. This renewable scholarship helps talented students continue their studies and pursue careers in biology.
Created by CMU alumni Dr. Kimber ’79 (Biology) and Judy DeWitt ’92 (Accounting, MBA ’08), this scholarship is their way of giving back to the university that helped launch Dr. Kimber’s journey to dental school and a successful career in orthodontics.
Seize this opportunity to advance your education and follow your passion in biology with the support of CMU and the DeWitt family.
Bonnie Jean Varker Schultz Endowed Scholarship
The Bonnie Jean Varker Schultz Endowed Scholarship is designed to help CMU juniors and seniors on the Pre-Veterinary Medicine Pathway achieve that goal. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need.
This scholarship honors the memory of Bonnie Jean Varker Schultz ’79, a devoted animal lover from East Lansing whose passion for horses inspired her community. From competing with her first horse, Big Red, to riding Dude in English Dressage and 4-H competitions, Bonnie’s love of animals defined her life. Established by her siblings in 2025, this scholarship celebrates Bonnie’s generosity and supports students pursuing their dreams in veterinary medicine.
Take the next step toward your veterinary career with the support of CMU and the legacy of Bonnie Schultz.