Biology

Carolyn Stenbak, PhD, Chair
Michelle DuBois, PhD, Associate Chair

Web: https://www.seattleu.edu/scieng/biology/

Objectives

Biology is the study of life at all levels, from the molecular to the global. A vital part of education, knowledge of biology provides insights into the nature of the human body and all living organisms, including ecosystems, genetics, evolution, behavior, physiological functions, and cellular and molecular processes of all living things. We offer four majors and a minor to provide you with options that fit your future plans.

Our Programs

BS in Biology: Emphasizing laboratory and field work, the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology major prepares you for careers in the life sciences, graduate work in basic and applied research, and professional careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and teaching. Working within the requirements of the BS in Biology major, you may structure your coursework to create programs with an emphasis in ecology, physiology, zoology, or microbiology.

Within the BS in Biology curriculum, you may opt to choose one of our two concentrations to support your future goals. The concentration in Biomedical Sciences focuses on coursework required for typical health profession programs. The concentration in Data Science provides students with data-oriented and programming options to prepare for a future in biological data analysis, modeling, and related computational careers.

BS in Cell and Molecular Biology: The BS in cell and molecular biology major provides students with opportunities to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which cells function, including coursework in genetics, molecular biology, biotechnology, genomics, and cell biology. The curriculum includes intensive laboratory work and independent research projects that give students invaluable research experiences that benefit a variety of career options, and students may create course plans with appropriate background for biotechnology careers, graduate work, and health professions.

BS in Marine and Conservation Biology: The BS in marine and conservation biology major allows students to develop an appreciation for the marine environments and ecology and conservation efforts. The curriculum includes several course options in biodiversity, organismal biology, physiology, and ecosystems and encourages participation in related research projects. A valuable part of the curriculum is an education abroad component, in which students take coursework, encounter different habitats, and gain research experience at sites across the globe.

BA in Biology: If you would like to incorporate a biology degree into a broader liberal arts education or integrate biology with another discipline in your career plan, the BA in Biology major will give you the flexibility you need. The program combines the breadth of biology with expanded course work in other disciplines that may lead to a minor or double major. Possible multi-disciplinary combinations may prepare students for careers in science writing or illustration, genetic counseling, environmental policy, business in the biotechnology industry, and more.

Biology Minor: Engage in a Biology Minor and explore the web of life to complement your major.

Health career interests

Our diverse majors allow you to tailor your education by selecting the best program and courses for your interests. Typical choices to prepare for a health-related career include the BS in Biology, perhaps with a Biomedical Sciences concentration, the BS in Cell and Molecular Biology, or the BA in Biology with a focus on health-related biology coursework.

Students specifically interested in professional health programs, including medical, dental, veterinary, physician assistant, and osteopathic medicine, should also consult the Pre-Health section of the Catalog.

Programs

Undergraduate Major

Undergraduate Minor

Biology Minor