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Biology, BA

Explore our Biology major, develop critical thinking skills and make a difference in diverse careers with a biology degree from Seattle University.

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About this Program

Explore the Living World and Pursue a Multidisciplinary Career 

You will have the opportunity to embrace your scientific curiosity and passion as you discover more about the living world as a biology major with Seattle University.

Through intellectually challenging courses, we empower students to explore the wide diversity of life — from the molecular to the ecological.

Our biology program helps you develop the skills in critical thinking, quantitative problem-solving and scientific research that provides the foundation for success in future biological-related careers. With the help of your faculty adviser, you can tailor your coursework to meet your educational and post-graduation goals.

Flexible and Interdisciplinary Options 

Our programs and curricula allow you to combine your biology degree with other campus programs to fit your interests and career ambitions.  Explore major and minor combinations across our University from Data Science to Communications to Business and more. 

Biology BA at a Glance

Learn how this degree from the Department of Biology will contribute to your career goals. Then, explore course requirements and see how impactful a Seattle University degree can be.

The BA degree in Biology from Seattle University gives you a broad array of scientific training in biology. The major is designed for students who want to make biology the focus of their education but who may also want to combine it with other areas of study.
 
Compared to the BS degrees, the BA requires fewer credits in physics, math, and chemistry while providing choices across the biology curriculum. You can pair this major with a second major or a minor.

Embarking on a biology minor is a fascinating journey where you'll delve into the intricate web of life. You'll explore the wonders of cellular processes, ecological systems, and the diversity of living organisms. With each class, you'll unravel the mysteries of the natural world, gaining a deeper understanding of the building blocks that sustain life and the interconnected relationships that shape our planet. This minor requires 30 credit hours of study.

Upon completing their degree programs in Biology, students will:

  • Have a broad and solid foundation of biological knowledge.
  • Communicate scientific information effectively through writing and speaking.
  • Use analytical thinking to solve problems.
  • Be able to design experiments and interpret observations.
  • Be able to read, understand, and critique scientific publications.
  • Be able to conduct independent studies in biology.
  • Translate experiential learning into professional formation. 

What You’ll Learn

Learn about the classes you’ll take as a student here.

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Top 25% in Science & Engineering

Seattle University ranks #40 in the nation —U.S. News & World Report, 2023

45%

Women

Our average of women STEM students nearly doubles the national average of only 23%.

36

Students in Intro Biology Courses

To build your foundation of success, we offer small class size from day one.

Hands-On, Research-Focused Learning

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Senior Synthesis and Research Projects

In your senior year, you will complete a senior synthesis project that demonstrates a thorough understanding of the field on a topic of your choice. Some students base their senior synthesis projects on SU research experiences.

Teacher in class with students

Hands-On Lab Experiences

Starting with your first course in our department, our curriculum provides a wide variety of biology experiences in the field and lab. Over 90% of SU Biology courses have a lab component that is led by a faculty member.

Facilities and Labs
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Research Internships, Fellowships and Field Opportunities

Biology faculty collaborate with students on research projects ranging from songbird behavior to protein structure and function. Located in the bustling research hub that is Seattle, our program gives you many internship and field opportunities to learn science and make discoveries.

Explore Internships

Prepare for In Demand Careers

With a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on work and research experience, you will be prepared for careers in:

  • Biotechnology
  • Medicine
  • Marine Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Microbiology
  • Neurobiology
  • Genetics
  • Public Health

Hear From Our Alumni

Tsehay Abebe, BS in Cell and Molecular Biology '13

"I chose biology because I am interested in how the body works...from my undergraduate experience at SU and working at Pacific Northwest Research Institute, I have fallen in love with two aspects of scientific research: solving the mystery and applying it in a clinical setting."

MD, Washington University School of Medicine – St. Louis, Missouri

Faculty

All Faculty & Staff

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Get in Touch

We’re here to help. For information about Biology degrees at Seattle University, contact:

Carolyn Stenbak, PhD

Professor and Department Chair