What is ILS?

The Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) Program at the University of Maryland is a holistic biological sciences-focused and accelerated curriculum for talented STEM students. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on research, service-learning, and a strong living-learning community, ILS prepares students for careers in medicine, research, public health, and beyond.

Two-Year Curriculum | Research | Service-Learning | Community

 

Why Choose Ils?

Two-year honors Curriculum

Our interdisciplinary coursework is designed to integrate [ ] to prepare students for careers in life sciences.

  • First-Year Courses - Developing Life Scientists for the Global Good, Integrative and Quantitative Concepts in Biology, Genetics & Genomics, Service-Learning Practicum

  • Second-Year Courses - Cell Biology & Physiology, Science Writing, Global Health Messages, Topics in Scientific Integrity & Medical Ethics, & MORE

  • Explore Academics

Community & Student Life

All first-year ILS students live together in La Plata Hall, an air-conditioned residence with faculty and staff offices on site.

  • Study Lounges & Classroom Spaces in the building

  • Resident Advisors & Peer Mentors to guide first-year students

  • Community Events & Leadership Development opportunities

  • Meet Our Community

Research

All ILS students complete a 240+ hour research project, guided by the ILS Associate Director. Research placements include:

  • On-Campus Labs - Work with UMD faculty in cutting-edge research

  • Federal Agencies & Institutes - NIH, FDA, USDA, Smithsonian, and more

  • Flexible Scheduling - Research during the summer or academic year

  • Discover Research Opportunities

Service-Learning

First-year ILS students complete a 25-hour service-learning project with a community partner of their choice.

  • STEM Education - Tutoring and mentoring underserved students

  • Environmental Sustainability - Sustainable farming & conservation

  • Public Helath & Outreach - Volunteering in hospitals & non-profit organizations

  • Learn about Service-Learning

 

How to Join ILS?

ILS is part of the UMD Honors College. Students are selected through the Honors College admissions process. Research experience is NOT required for admission.

  • How to apply

  • Location: La Plata Hall, University of Maryland

  • Email:

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