Incoming Freshmen and Transfer Biology Scholarships

If you’re an incoming freshman with a passion for biology and a strong academic record, this scholarship could help launch your journey at CMU. It’s designed to recognize students who have excelled in high school, particularly in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, and who demonstrate the promise to thrive in a rigorous science program.

To be considered, applicants should have a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher, a solid foundation in biology and chemistry, at least three years of mathematics, and strong standardized test scores (ACT 25 or SAT 1200).

This award is renewable for up to three additional years, giving you ongoing support as you advance in your studies. To maintain the scholarship, recipients must earn a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their first year, and 3.25 or higher in subsequent years, while achieving at least a 3.0 in biology, chemistry, and physics courses. Full-time students must also complete at least one biology course each semester.

The scholarship was made possible by generous contributions from alumni and faculty who support the Biology Department General Fund for Scholarships. It honors emeritus faculty members Laverne Curry, Jack Adams, Wakelin McNeel, and Faith Johnston, celebrating their dedication to fostering the next generation of biologists.

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The Irene Jorae Scholarship is designed to welcome and support incoming freshmen who are ready to embark on a journey in the biological sciences. This award celebrates students with exceptional high school academic achievements and a passion for biology.

To be eligible, applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.5, a strong foundation in biology and chemistry, at least three years of mathematics, and standardized test scores of at least 25 on the ACT or 1200 on the SAT.

This scholarship can provide ongoing support, as it is renewable for up to three additional years with reapplication. To maintain the award, recipients must earn a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their first year and 3.25 or higher in subsequent years, with at least a 3.0 in biology, chemistry, and physics courses. Full-time students must also complete at least one biology course each semester.

Established in 1966 by Rodney J. Rogers, a former student, and supported by generations of students, faculty, family, and friends, this scholarship honors Irene Rogers’ extraordinary 37-year legacy at CMU. An accomplished ornithologist, author of Guide for Young Naturalists, and dedicated educator, Irene served 24 years as head of the Biology Department. This scholarship reflects her commitment to nurturing curious, driven students, and provides outstanding incoming freshmen with the support they need to thrive in their studies and pursue a future in biology.

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The Nicholas and Mabel Cuthbert Scholarship is designed to support and recognize outstanding incoming freshmen who are ready to pursue a major in biology. This award celebrates students with exceptional academic achievement in high school, particularly in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, and who demonstrate the potential to thrive in a rigorous scientific program.

Eligible applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.5, a strong foundation in biology and chemistry, at least three years of mathematics, and standardized test scores of 25 or higher on the ACT, or 1200 or higher on the SAT.

This scholarship can provide continued support throughout your undergraduate studies, as it is renewable for up to three additional years with reapplication. To maintain the award, recipients must earn a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their first year and 3.25 or higher in subsequent years, with at least a 3.0 in biology, chemistry, and physics courses. Full-time students must also complete at least one biology course each semester.

Established by Dr. Francesca Cuthbert, daughter of Nicholas and Mabel Cuthbert, this scholarship honors her parents’ lifelong dedication to biology and education. Nicholas Cuthbert, hired in 1947 as a young assistant professor trained in genetics, taught a wide range of courses, including ornithology, and served as interim Chair of the Biology Department before retiring in 1976. Mabel Cuthbert contributed to the department as an instructor and authored two books on wildflower identification. Both Nicholas and Mabel were deeply involved in the university and the broader community. This scholarship carries forward their legacy by helping promising students invest in their future in the biological sciences.

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The Transfer Student Scholarship is designed to welcome and support students who are transferring to CMU with a strong academic background and a passion for biology. We recognize that transfer students bring unique experiences and accomplishments from other universities, colleges, or community colleges, and this award celebrates that dedication.

To be considered, applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate success in previous coursework, particularly in biology, chemistry, and related sciences. The scholarship also takes into account letters of recommendation and participation in extracurricular activities, highlighting students who show promise both inside and outside the classroom.

This award can provide ongoing support, as it is renewable for up to three additional years with reapplication. To maintain the scholarship, recipients must earn a GPA of 3.0 or higher in their first year and 3.25 or higher in subsequent years, with at least a 3.0 in biology, chemistry, and physics courses. Full-time students must also complete at least one biology course each semester.

By recognizing the achievements of transfer students, this scholarship affirms that your hard work and dedication matter, no matter where your academic journey began. It’s our way of helping you continue your studies with the support and recognition you deserve while pursuing your future in biology.

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