Biology is the study of life, including how organisms interact with one another, ecosystems, diversity and growth. It’s also an important course for those looking to pursue a career in pharmacology, forensic sciences and zoology—and a precursor to medicine, too.
Biology is a continually evolving field, and the results of ongoing scholarship provide valuable classroom learnings to the millions of students who will become dieticians, toxicologists, veterinarians and more.
Here, we look at how Top Hat’s always up-to-date biology textbook stacks up against the most recent versions available from legacy publishers.
1. Biology: An Interactive Tour | Top Hat
Author: Robert Pozos (University of Minnesota)
In Top Hat’s textbook, biology extends beyond the page with homework sets included alonside each chapter. Embedded videos connect course concepts to the real world, which makes learning more relatable for students.
Average Price: Up to 40–60 percent more affordable
Edition: Constantly updated
Always up-to-date content:
Interactivity:
Customizable:
All-in-one platform:
2. Biology for a Changing World | MacMillan
Authors: Michele Shuster (New Mexico State University), Janet Vigna (Grand Valley State University) and Matthew Tontonoz (independent scholar)
The 3rd edition of MacMillan’s Biology for a Changing World helps students understand the biology curriculum through news media. Access to the online platform LaunchPad sold separately.
Average Price: $57 (e-book only)
Edition: 3rd edition
Always up-to-date content:
Interactivity:
Customizable:
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3. Campbell Biology: Concepts and Connections
Authors: Martha R. Taylor (Cornell University) et al.
The latest edition of this textbook offers connections between course material and the real world, a framework organized around basic biological themes and a data visualization tool. Access to the online platform Mastering Biology sold separately.
Average Price: $159 (text only)
Edition: 9th edition
Always up-to-date content:
Interactivity:
Customizable:
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4. Biology: Science for Life with Physiology | Pearson
Authors: Colleen Belk (University of Minnesota, Duluth) and Virginia Borden Maier (St. John Fisher College)
With high-interest topics such as genetic testing and global warming along with Make the Connection activities in each chapter, Pearson’s tome also features Ready-to-Go Teaching Modules that allow instructors to test students before, during and after class. Access to the online learning platform Mastering Biology sold separately.
Average Price: $44 (e-book)
Edition: 6th edition
Always up-to-date content:
Interactivity:
Customizable:
All-in-one platform:
Learn more and get a preview of Top Hat’s biology textbook here.
